Yale Reservoir salmon length restriction

September 15, 2022

Action: Restricts salmon retention to a maximum length of 15”

Effective date: Sept. 16 through Dec. 31, 2022

Species affected: All salmon

Location: Yale Reservoir (Cowlitz Co.)

Rules: Landlocked salmon rules in effect, except maximum length of 15”.

Reason for action: As part of upper Lewis River anadromous reintroduction, adult coho will be released into Yale Reservoir for habitat preparation and nutrient enhancement. Upstream transport for reintroduction into areas above Swift Dam is on-going with hatchery coho in excess of weekly Lewis basin hatchery broodstock collection targets. Transport of additional coho adults to Yale Reservoir will occur for habitat preparation and nutrient enhancement purposes.

This fishing rule change will enable continued landlocked salmon fishing while restricting retention of adult coho transported for habitat preparation needs.

Additional information: Under permanent rules, Yale Reservoir is currently open for landlocked salmon and kokanee retention.  All other permanent rules published in the Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet remain in effect.

Information contact: Josua Holowatz, District Fish Biologist, 360-906-6771.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on definitions and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Visit wdfw.wa.gov/fishing-hotlines to find a list of mobile, web, print, or customer service phone options for the latest rule information.

Request this information in an alternative format or language at wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility/requests-accommodation, 833-885-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.