WDFW Fishing Rule Change: Salmon fishing to close in marine areas 8-1 and 8-2

[Pacific NW Ron]

WDFW FISHING RULE CHANGE   
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091
http://wdfw.wa.gov

April 8, 2019

Salmon fishing to close in marine areas 8-1 and 8-2

Action:  Closes marine areas 8-1 and 8-2 to angling for salmon.

Effective date:  April 11 through April 30, 2019. 

Species affected: Salmon.

Location:  Marine areas 8-1 (Deception Pass, Hope Island, and Skagit Bay) and 8-2 (Port Susan and Port Gardner).

Reason for action: Preliminary estimates indicate that the total encounters of chinook salmon is approaching the fishery guideline and encounters of legal-sized fish have exceeded preseason predictions. The fishery is being closed to avoid exceeding the allowable limit of total encounters including both retained and released fish, and to control impacts on stocks of concern while ensuring compliance with conservation objectives.

Additional information: For specific regulations, anglers should consult the 2018-19 Washington Sports Fishing Rules pamphlet available online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/.

Information contact: David Stormer, Puget Sound Recreational Salmon Manager, (360) 902-0058; Mark Baltzell, Puget Sound Salmon Manager, (360) 902-2807.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360)796-3215 or toll free 1-866-880-5431.