October 27, 2022
Action: Returns Willapa Bay tributaries to permanent rules as listed in the 2022/23 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet.
Effective date: Saturday, October 29, 2022
Species affected: All species.
Locations (including all tributaries to listed areas):
- Bear River (Pacific Co.)
- Fork Creek (Pacific Co.)
- Naselle River (Pacific Co.), from the mouth upstream
- Naselle River South Fork (Pacific Co.)
- Nemah River, Middle, North and South forks (Pacific Co.)
- Niawiakum River (Pacific Co.)
- North River (Pacific Co.), from the mouth (Hwy. 105 Bridge) upstream
- Palix River (Pacific Co.)
- Salmon Creek (Pacific Co.)
- Smith Creek (Pacific Co.)
- Willapa River (Pacific Co.), from mouth (City of South Bend boat launch) upstream
- Willapa River South Fork (Pacific Co.)
Reason for action: Recent rain events have led to increased stream flows, allowing Chinook to migrate upstream to spawning grounds. Data also indicates wild coho returns are sufficient to allow limited retention (as listed in 2022/23 rules pamphlet) in areas previously requiring wild coho release by emergency rule.
Additional information: Anglers can be notified of in-season rule changes as they are announced by signing up for WDFW Regulation Updates at wdfw.wa.gov/about/lists.
Information contact: Region 6 office, 360-249-4628