WDFW FISHING RULE CHANGE
Chinook salmon retention to close July 3 on Cowlitz River
Action: Chinook salmon retention closes on the Cowlitz and Cispus rivers and in Lake Scanewa.
Effective dates: July 3 through July 31, 2018.
Species affected: Chinook salmon.
Locations: The Cowlitz River from the mouth to Forest Road 1270, Cispus River, and Lake Scanewa.
Reason for action: Cowlitz River spring chinook has experienced a series of low run sizes in recent years. The 2018 return was again anticipated to be relatively low and to date is far below expectations. To help ensure hatchery broodstock goals are met, WDFW is closing the fishery now, allowing for additional fish to be transported above Cowlitz Falls Dam for reintroduction purposes.
Additional information: The Cowlitz River fall chinook run will begin arriving in August as the spring chinook run comes to end, so the fishery regulations will revert to permanent regulations on Aug. 1. All other permanent rules remain in effect. Please refer to the Sports Fishing Pamphlet for complete rule information.
Information Contact: Tom Wadsworth, District Fish Biologist, (360) 906-6709.
