Anglers enjoy big trout lowland lakes opening day
May 01, 2012 03:31 PM
OLYMPIA - Good weather and big trout helped to boost
catch rates on opening day of this year’s lowland
lakes fishing season.
Based on creel checks conducted at 112 lakes around the state, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) estimates that anglers caught an average of 3.99 trout on opening day Saturday, April 28.
Read More. . .
Based on creel checks conducted at 112 lakes around the state, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) estimates that anglers caught an average of 3.99 trout on opening day Saturday, April 28.
Read More. . .
Spring Chinook fishery above Bonneville Dam extended to May 6
May 01, 2012 08:42 AM
OLYMPIA - Anglers will have at least four more days
to fish for hatchery-reared spring chinook salmon on
a section of the Columbia River stretching 163 miles
upstream from Bonneville Dam.
Citing the late timing of this year’s run, fishery managers from Washington and Oregon today agreed to extend the fishery through May 6.
Read More. . .
Citing the late timing of this year’s run, fishery managers from Washington and Oregon today agreed to extend the fishery through May 6.
Read More. . .
May WDFW Weekender Report
May 01, 2012 08:33 AM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for April. To read the entire Weekender Report
go to WDFW’s Web
site.
Fishing: The spring chinook fishery is currently closed below Bonneville Dam, but has been extended through May 6 upriver from the dam to the Washington/Oregon state line above McNary Dam. Meanwhile, anglers are increasingly turning to area tributaries for salmon and steelhead and to lakes and reservoirs that opened for trout April 28.
Read More. . .
Fishing: The spring chinook fishery is currently closed below Bonneville Dam, but has been extended through May 6 upriver from the dam to the Washington/Oregon state line above McNary Dam. Meanwhile, anglers are increasingly turning to area tributaries for salmon and steelhead and to lakes and reservoirs that opened for trout April 28.
Read More. . .
Public invited to propose changes to recreational fisheries
Apr 26, 2012 11:51 AM
OLYMPIA - People with ideas about how to improve
state sportfishing rules can submit their proposals
to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
(WDFW) through June 15.
Only those proposals that are necessary for resource conservation or provide a significant recreational benefit should be submitted to WDFW, due to a moratorium issued by the Governor’s office on non-critical rule making.
Read More. . .
Only those proposals that are necessary for resource conservation or provide a significant recreational benefit should be submitted to WDFW, due to a moratorium issued by the Governor’s office on non-critical rule making.
Read More. . .
Washington's 2012 salmon fisheries approved
Apr 06, 2012 09:53 AM
SEATTLE - State and tribal co-managers agreed April 5
on a package of salmon fisheries that meets
conservation goals for wild salmon populations, while
providing fishing opportunities on healthy stocks.
Washington’s 2012 salmon fishing seasons, developed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and treaty tribal co-managers, were finalized today during the Pacific Fishery Management Council’s (PFMC) meeting in Seattle. The fishing package defines regulations for salmon fisheries in Puget Sound, Washington’s ocean and coastal areas and the Columbia River.
Read More. . .
Washington’s 2012 salmon fishing seasons, developed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and treaty tribal co-managers, were finalized today during the Pacific Fishery Management Council’s (PFMC) meeting in Seattle. The fishing package defines regulations for salmon fisheries in Puget Sound, Washington’s ocean and coastal areas and the Columbia River.
Read More. . .
Bigger trout awaits anglers on State's biggest opening day
Apr 04, 2012 03:15 PM
OLYMPIA - Anglers preparing for opening day of the
2012 lowland lakes season on April 28 can expect to
reel in trout that are one-third bigger this year.
With opening day fast approaching, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is releasing 3 million hatchery-reared trout averaging 11-13 inches - two to three inches longer than last year.
Read More. . .
With opening day fast approaching, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is releasing 3 million hatchery-reared trout averaging 11-13 inches - two to three inches longer than last year.
Read More. . .
Candidate sought for WDFW disabilities advisory committee
Mar 28, 2012 04:24 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
is seeking an applicant to fill a vacancy on its
advisory committee for persons with disabilities.
The seven-member committee advises the commission on issues of concern for hunters and fishers with disabilities, including special hunts, modified sporting equipment, access to public land and recreational opportunities.
Read More. . .
The seven-member committee advises the commission on issues of concern for hunters and fishers with disabilities, including special hunts, modified sporting equipment, access to public land and recreational opportunities.
Read More. . .
April WDFW Weekender Report
Mar 28, 2012 04:10 PM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for April.
Fishing: After a couple of months of slow fishing for spring chinook salmon, fishery managers from Washington and Oregon are set to decide whether to extend the initial season on the lower Columbia River beyond April 6.
Their decision, scheduled April 5, will be reported on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) website and on the department’s Fishing Hotline (360-902-2500).
Read More. . .
Fishing: After a couple of months of slow fishing for spring chinook salmon, fishery managers from Washington and Oregon are set to decide whether to extend the initial season on the lower Columbia River beyond April 6.
Their decision, scheduled April 5, will be reported on the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) website and on the department’s Fishing Hotline (360-902-2500).
Read More. . .
Fish and wildlife enthusiasts invited to share photos
Mar 07, 2012 03:40 PM
OLYMPIA - Washingtonians have a new way to share
their outdoor adventures with others who enjoy
hunting, fishing and observing the natural world.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
March WDFW Weekender Report
Feb 29, 2012 05:28 PM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for March.
Fishing: Spring chinook fever is starting to take hold on the Columbia River. More than 100 boats were counted on the lower river one day in late February when only a single adult fish had passed Bonneville Dam. By late March – when the bulk of the run is expected to arrive – that number is expected to grow to more than 2,000 boats per day.
Read More. . .
Fishing: Spring chinook fever is starting to take hold on the Columbia River. More than 100 boats were counted on the lower river one day in late February when only a single adult fish had passed Bonneville Dam. By late March – when the bulk of the run is expected to arrive – that number is expected to grow to more than 2,000 boats per day.
Read More. . .
Strong returns of Columbia River Chinook, coastal coho predicted
Feb 28, 2012 12:00 PM
OLYMPIA - Fishing opportunities look promising for
chinook in Washington’s ocean waters and the Columbia
River, as well as for coho in coastal bays and
rivers, according to preseason salmon forecasts
released today at a public meeting in Olympia.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
WDFW adopts new sportfishing rules
Feb 06, 2012 11:02 AM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
adopted a variety of new sportfishing rules and
increased the number of multiple-season hunting
permits for deer and elk issued each year during a
public meeting here Feb. 3-4.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Columbia River fishing seasons set for spring chinook, sturgeon
Feb 02, 2012 12:08 PM
PORTLAND - Fishery managers from Washington and
Oregon today set fishing seasons for 2012 on the
lower Columbia River that anticipate a strong run of
spring chinook salmon but a further decline in the
number of white sturgeon available for harvest.
Most new fishing regulations adopted today will take effect March 1, when fishing for spring chinook and sturgeon starts to heat up on the lower Columbia. Until then, both fisheries are open on various sections of the river under rules approved last year.
Read More. . .
Most new fishing regulations adopted today will take effect March 1, when fishing for spring chinook and sturgeon starts to heat up on the lower Columbia. Until then, both fisheries are open on various sections of the river under rules approved last year.
Read More. . .
February WDFW Weekender Report
Feb 02, 2012 11:51 AM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for February.
Fishing: Ocean bright spring chinook salmon are beginning to move into the Columbia River, setting the stage for one of the state’s most popular fisheries. Anglers typically start landing early-returning “springers” in early February, but the fishery usually doesn’t catch fire until March.
Read More. . .
Fishing: Ocean bright spring chinook salmon are beginning to move into the Columbia River, setting the stage for one of the state’s most popular fisheries. Anglers typically start landing early-returning “springers” in early February, but the fishery usually doesn’t catch fire until March.
Read More. . .
January WDFW Weekender Report
Jan 01, 2012 04:12 PM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for January.
Fishing: Winter steelhead are still the name of the game in the Columbia River Basin, although several other fisheries are beginning to compete for anglers’ attention.
Sturgeon fishing reopens Jan. 1 from the mouth of the Columbia to McNary Dam, and more than a dozen lakes and ponds are scheduled to receive an infusion of 38,000 catchable-size rainbow trout by the end of the month.
Read More. . .
Fishing: Winter steelhead are still the name of the game in the Columbia River Basin, although several other fisheries are beginning to compete for anglers’ attention.
Sturgeon fishing reopens Jan. 1 from the mouth of the Columbia to McNary Dam, and more than a dozen lakes and ponds are scheduled to receive an infusion of 38,000 catchable-size rainbow trout by the end of the month.
Read More. . .
December WDFW Weekender Report
Dec 05, 2011 09:48 AM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for December.
Fishing: This year's winter steelhead season got off to a promising start just before Thanksgiving, when the first wave of fish started taking anglers' lures in several tributaries to the lower Columbia River. With decent river conditions, catch rates should continue to improve in the weeks ahead, said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
“Despite recent high water and cold weather, that first jag of winter steelhead was definitely on the bite,” Hymer said. “So long as the rivers don't rise too high or fall too low, we could be looking at a darn good fishery this year.”
Read More. . .
Fishing: This year's winter steelhead season got off to a promising start just before Thanksgiving, when the first wave of fish started taking anglers' lures in several tributaries to the lower Columbia River. With decent river conditions, catch rates should continue to improve in the weeks ahead, said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
“Despite recent high water and cold weather, that first jag of winter steelhead was definitely on the bite,” Hymer said. “So long as the rivers don't rise too high or fall too low, we could be looking at a darn good fishery this year.”
Read More. . .
November WDFW Weekender Report for Southwest Washington
Oct 27, 2011 04:15 PM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for November. To read the entire Weekender
Report go to WDFW’s Web
site.
Fishing: Thanksgiving Day traditionally marks the start of the popular winter steelhead fishery, although some anglers will undoubtedly start working their favorite rivers well ahead of time. The first two steelies of the season arrived at the Cowlitz Hatchery during the third week of October and lots more are right on their tails.
Catch totals will take off once the first big storm of the season has soaked the region with heavy rains, said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
“Steelhead move upriver on pulses of water,” Hymer said. “Once the sky opens up and the rivers start to swell, we’ll see more fish on the move.”
Read More. . .
Fishing: Thanksgiving Day traditionally marks the start of the popular winter steelhead fishery, although some anglers will undoubtedly start working their favorite rivers well ahead of time. The first two steelies of the season arrived at the Cowlitz Hatchery during the third week of October and lots more are right on their tails.
Catch totals will take off once the first big storm of the season has soaked the region with heavy rains, said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
“Steelhead move upriver on pulses of water,” Hymer said. “Once the sky opens up and the rivers start to swell, we’ll see more fish on the move.”
Read More. . .
WDFW seeks comment on sportfishing rules
Oct 20, 2011 08:52 AM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) will accept written public comments
through Dec. 30 on rule proposals for the 2012-13
sportfishing season in Washington.
As part of that effort, WDFW has scheduled four public meetings in October to discuss its rule proposals with the public.
Read More. . .
As part of that effort, WDFW has scheduled four public meetings in October to discuss its rule proposals with the public.
Read More. . .
Nominations sought for fish advisory committees
Oct 10, 2011 08:39 AM
OLYMPIA - Fishery managers in Washington and Oregon
are seeking nominations for candidates to advisory
committees that focus on sport and commercial fishing
issues on the Columbia River. Nominations are due
Nov. 15.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Daily limit of trout increased on Scanewa Lake
Sep 30, 2011 03:02 PM
Action: Increase trout daily limit
to 10 in Scanewa Lake
Effective dates: Oct. 1, 2011 until further notice
Species affected: Trout
Location: Scanewa Lake (Cowlitz Falls Reservoir)
Read more...
Effective dates: Oct. 1, 2011 until further notice
Species affected: Trout
Location: Scanewa Lake (Cowlitz Falls Reservoir)
Read more...
October WDFW Weekender Report for Southwest Washington
Sep 28, 2011 05:44 PM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for October.
Fishing: Coho salmon are moving up the Columbia River and into area tributaries, where bright chinook are also still striking at lures and bait on some rivers.
But starting Oct. 1, anglers have another option to consider: Sturgeon fishing in the mainstem Columbia River from the Wauna powerlines upstream to Bonneville Dam. The fishery was originally scheduled to open Oct. 8, but fishery managers added three additional days – Oct. 1, Oct. 6 and Oct. 7 – to help reach the area harvest guideline.
Read More. . .
Fishing: Coho salmon are moving up the Columbia River and into area tributaries, where bright chinook are also still striking at lures and bait on some rivers.
But starting Oct. 1, anglers have another option to consider: Sturgeon fishing in the mainstem Columbia River from the Wauna powerlines upstream to Bonneville Dam. The fishery was originally scheduled to open Oct. 8, but fishery managers added three additional days – Oct. 1, Oct. 6 and Oct. 7 – to help reach the area harvest guideline.
Read More. . .
Positions open on Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Recreational Anglers Board
Sep 27, 2011 03:59 PM
OLYMPIA - The
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is
seeking nominations for two vacant positions on the
Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Recreational
Anglers Board, a citizen advisory group responsible
for reviewing plans to improve sport fishing
opportunities for salmon and steelhead in the
Columbia River Basin.
Individuals may nominate themselves or others to the board, which is composed of nine people affiliated with recreational fishing organizations in the region.
The board currently has one vacant position in northcentral Washington (Region 2) and another in southwest Washington (Region 5).
Read More. . .
Individuals may nominate themselves or others to the board, which is composed of nine people affiliated with recreational fishing organizations in the region.
The board currently has one vacant position in northcentral Washington (Region 2) and another in southwest Washington (Region 5).
Read More. . .
September WDFW Weekender Report
Sep 01, 2011 03:30 PM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for September.
Fishing: September is prime time for salmon fishing in the Columbia River Basin, as large numbers of fish move upriver and into tributaries on both sides of Bonneville Dam. Anglers fishing the lower river from Buoy 10 to the dam this season are expected to reel in nearly 32,000 fall chinook and 8,000 hatchery coho – most of them, this month.
“Prospects are good for salmon fishing this month, but it's important to remember these fish are on the move,” said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “As the month goes on, successful anglers will follow the fish upriver and into the tributaries.”
Read More. . .
Fishing: September is prime time for salmon fishing in the Columbia River Basin, as large numbers of fish move upriver and into tributaries on both sides of Bonneville Dam. Anglers fishing the lower river from Buoy 10 to the dam this season are expected to reel in nearly 32,000 fall chinook and 8,000 hatchery coho – most of them, this month.
“Prospects are good for salmon fishing this month, but it's important to remember these fish are on the move,” said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “As the month goes on, successful anglers will follow the fish upriver and into the tributaries.”
Read More. . .
August WDFW Weekender report
Jul 27, 2011 06:13 PM
Here is the Southwest
Washington fishing section of the WDFW Weekender
Report for August.
Fishing: This year’s fall chinook fishery opens Aug. 1 on the Columbia River, where a strong run of upriver brights is expected to push the total return well above the 10-year average. Of the 776,300 “falls” included in the pre-season forecast, nearly 400,000 are projected to be upriver brights – the highest number since 1987.
Those fish, together with hatchery coho and summer steelhead, should make August a very good time to fish the lower Columbia River, said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).Read More. . .
Fishing: This year’s fall chinook fishery opens Aug. 1 on the Columbia River, where a strong run of upriver brights is expected to push the total return well above the 10-year average. Of the 776,300 “falls” included in the pre-season forecast, nearly 400,000 are projected to be upriver brights – the highest number since 1987.
Those fish, together with hatchery coho and summer steelhead, should make August a very good time to fish the lower Columbia River, said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).Read More. . .
Hatchery adult coho daily limit increased on Cowlitz River
Jul 27, 2011 03:41 PM
Action:
Anglers may keep up to
6 hatchery adult coho as part of their salmon daily
limit on the lower Cowlitz River.
Species affected: Coho salmon
Effective dates: Aug. 1, 2011, until further notice.
Location:Cowlitz River from boundary markers at mouth to 400 feet below Mayfield Dam Powerhouse.
Read more...
Species affected: Coho salmon
Effective dates: Aug. 1, 2011, until further notice.
Location:Cowlitz River from boundary markers at mouth to 400 feet below Mayfield Dam Powerhouse.
Read more...
WDFW conducting boat checks to stop invasive species
Jul 01, 2011 05:46 PM
OLYMPIA - People
hauling boats to and from Washington waterways this
summer may be stopped by Washington Department of
Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) enforcement officers
conducting mandatory checks of boats, trailers and
gear for aquatic invasive species.
The annual check stations and emphasis-patrol program has begun in several parts of the state and will continue through the boating season. The aim is to keep tiny zebra mussels, quagga mussels and other non-native species out of Washington to protect native fish, wildlife and water systems.
Read More. . .
The annual check stations and emphasis-patrol program has begun in several parts of the state and will continue through the boating season. The aim is to keep tiny zebra mussels, quagga mussels and other non-native species out of Washington to protect native fish, wildlife and water systems.
Read More. . .
July WDFW Weekender report
Jun 30, 2011 08:08 AM
Salmon fishing kicks
into high gear at this time of year, when the
Washington coast, several areas of Puget Sound and
many rivers around the state are open for business.
Most areas of Puget Sound also open for recreational
crabbing July 1, setting the stage for a great
Independence Day weekend.
Also starting July 1, many anglers and others planning outdoor adventures will need to purchase a Discover Pass for vehicle access to state parks, campgrounds, boat launches and wildlife areas. The new requirement, approved this year by the state Legislature, is designed to help keep 7 million acres of state recreational lands open after steep budget cuts.
Read More. . .
Also starting July 1, many anglers and others planning outdoor adventures will need to purchase a Discover Pass for vehicle access to state parks, campgrounds, boat launches and wildlife areas. The new requirement, approved this year by the state Legislature, is designed to help keep 7 million acres of state recreational lands open after steep budget cuts.
Read More. . .
Washington State "Discover Pass" now available
Jun 20, 2011 02:49 PM
OLYMPIA-The state's new
Discover Pass for vehicle access to state parks and
recreation lands is available for sale at
recreational license dealers and online.
The Discover Pass-providing access to 7 million acres of state park and recreation lands-will generate funding to keep those lands open following steep state budget cuts.
Read More. . .
The Discover Pass-providing access to 7 million acres of state park and recreation lands-will generate funding to keep those lands open following steep state budget cuts.
Read More. . .
Spring Chinook fishery extended until June 15 above Bonneville Dam
Jun 03, 2011 09:12 AM
OLYMPIA - The sport
fishery for hatchery-reared spring Chinook salmon has
been extended through June 15 on a section of the
Columbia River stretching 163.5 miles above
Bonneville Dam.
Previously set to close June 3, the spring chinook fishery was extended by fishery managers from Washington and Oregon, who today agreed that enough fish are still available under the catch limit to allow anglers to keep fishing until the summer Chinook salmon season starts June 16.
Read More. . .
Previously set to close June 3, the spring chinook fishery was extended by fishery managers from Washington and Oregon, who today agreed that enough fish are still available under the catch limit to allow anglers to keep fishing until the summer Chinook salmon season starts June 16.
Read More. . .
June WDFW Weekender Report
Jun 03, 2011 09:00 AM
Here is the Southwest
Washington portion of the WDFW Weekender Report. The
report for all state areas is at http://wdfw.wa.gov/weekender/.
Fishing: The spring Chinook fishery runs through June 15, followed the next day by a promising six-week summer Chinook season. Meanwhile, increasing numbers of sockeye salmon and hatchery summer steelhead are moving into the lower Columbia River Basin, where anglers can also catch and keep white sturgeon in most areas.Read More. . .
Fishing: The spring Chinook fishery runs through June 15, followed the next day by a promising six-week summer Chinook season. Meanwhile, increasing numbers of sockeye salmon and hatchery summer steelhead are moving into the lower Columbia River Basin, where anglers can also catch and keep white sturgeon in most areas.Read More. . .
Spring Chinook must be released on Lewis and Kalama rivers beginning May 28
May 26, 2011 10:41 AM
Action:
Lewis River and Kalama
River anglers must release all spring chinook
beginning May 28.
Species affected: Chinook salmon
Read more...
Species affected: Chinook salmon
Read more...
More time to catch Spring Chinook on Columbia & Snake rivers
May 26, 2011 10:36 AM
OLYMPIA - Several new
fishing opportunities for hatchery-reared spring
chinook salmon are opening up on the Columbia and
Snake rivers as the season enters its final leg.
With approximately 2,700 upriver chinook still available for harvest, fishery managers from Washington and Oregon today agreed to expand or reopen fisheries in the several areas.
With approximately 2,700 upriver chinook still available for harvest, fishery managers from Washington and Oregon today agreed to expand or reopen fisheries in the several areas.
- Below Bonneville Dam: Starting Friday (May 27), boat anglers will be allowed to fish for spring chinook from Beacon Rock upstream to Bonneville Dam on the Columbia River. This four-mile area, previously open for bank fishing only, will remain open for both kinds of fishing on the lower river through June 15.
Two Toutle tributaries open early for hatchery steelhead
May 19, 2011 12:39 PM
Action:
Lower portions of the
South Fork Toutle and Green rivers will open two
weeks early to fishing for hatchery steelhead.
Species affected: Steelhead
Effective dates: May 21, 2011 to June 3, 2011
Locations:
Species affected: Steelhead
Effective dates: May 21, 2011 to June 3, 2011
Locations:
- South Fork Toutle River from the mouth to the 4700 Road Bridge.
- Green River from the mouth to 400’ below the water intake at the upper end of the hatchery.
Columbia River Spring Chinook fishery reopens
May 16, 2011 09:15 AM
OLYMPIA - With thousands of spring chinook salmon now
moving up fish ladders at Bonneville Dam, fishery
managers from Washington and Oregon have agreed to
reopen the popular salmon fishery on the lower
Columbia River through June 15.
Starting Sunday, May 15, boat and bank anglers can fish for hatchery-reared spring chinook salmon from Rocky Point/Tongue Point upriver to Beacon Rock. Bank fishing will also be allowed four miles farther upriver to the fishing boundary below Bonneville Dam.
Read More. . .
Starting Sunday, May 15, boat and bank anglers can fish for hatchery-reared spring chinook salmon from Rocky Point/Tongue Point upriver to Beacon Rock. Bank fishing will also be allowed four miles farther upriver to the fishing boundary below Bonneville Dam.
Read More. . .
Good fishing during lowland lakes opener
May 04, 2011 11:26 AM
OLYMPIA - Washington's lowland lakes fishing season
opener last Saturday provided anglers a slightly
better-than-average catch rate of trout.
Based on Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) staff and volunteer creel checks of 4,305 anglers with 10,372 trout at 111 lakes statewide, the average catch rate was 2.4 trout per angler, with many more trout caught and released during the day.
Read More. . .
Based on Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) staff and volunteer creel checks of 4,305 anglers with 10,372 trout at 111 lakes statewide, the average catch rate was 2.4 trout per angler, with many more trout caught and released during the day.
Read More. . .
May WDFW Weekender Report
Apr 27, 2011 04:41 PM
Southwest Washington
Fishing: Spring chinook and summer steelhead are moving into area rivers in increasing numbers, sturgeon retention is allowed on portions of the Columbia River and several popular trout lakes will open for fishing April 30.
As part of that lineup, anglers can catch and keep hatchery-reared spring chinook through May 1 on a section of the Columbia River stretching 163.5 miles above Bonneville Dam. But it remains to be seen whether that fishery – or the one that closed April 19 below the dam – will reopen later in the season.
Read More. . .
Fishing: Spring chinook and summer steelhead are moving into area rivers in increasing numbers, sturgeon retention is allowed on portions of the Columbia River and several popular trout lakes will open for fishing April 30.
As part of that lineup, anglers can catch and keep hatchery-reared spring chinook through May 1 on a section of the Columbia River stretching 163.5 miles above Bonneville Dam. But it remains to be seen whether that fishery – or the one that closed April 19 below the dam – will reopen later in the season.
Read More. . .
Spring Chinook season extended again on lower Columbia
Apr 15, 2011 08:59 AM
OLYMPIA - Columbia
River anglers will have four more days to catch
hatchery-reared spring chinook salmon below
Bonneville Dam, where tough fishing conditions have
held this year's catch below expected levels since
late last month.
Fishery managers from Washington and Oregon agreed Thursday to extend the season through April 19 to give anglers more time to reach the initial harvest guideline set at the beginning of the season.
The additional four days of fishing will follow on the heels of an eight-day extension previously approved through April 15.
Read More. . .
Fishery managers from Washington and Oregon agreed Thursday to extend the season through April 19 to give anglers more time to reach the initial harvest guideline set at the beginning of the season.
The additional four days of fishing will follow on the heels of an eight-day extension previously approved through April 15.
Read More. . .
Washington's salmon fisheries set for 2011
Apr 13, 2011 03:16 PM
SAN MATEO, Calif. -
State and tribal co-managers today agreed on a
package of salmon fisheries that meets conservation
goals for wild salmon populations, while providing a
variety of fishing opportunities on abundant stocks.
Washington's 2011 salmon fishing seasons, developed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and treaty Indian co-managers, were finalized today during the Pacific Fishery Management Council's (PFMC) meeting in San Mateo, Calif. The fishing package defines regulations for salmon fisheries in Puget Sound, Washington's ocean and coastal areas and the Columbia River.
Read More. . .
Washington's 2011 salmon fishing seasons, developed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and treaty Indian co-managers, were finalized today during the Pacific Fishery Management Council's (PFMC) meeting in San Mateo, Calif. The fishing package defines regulations for salmon fisheries in Puget Sound, Washington's ocean and coastal areas and the Columbia River.
Read More. . .
Lakes stocked for April 30 season opener
Apr 07, 2011 06:07 PM
OLYMPIA - This month
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)
fish hatchery crews will finish stocking more than 20
million fish in Washington waterways before the
state's single biggest fishing season opener on April
30.
At least 300,000 anglers are expected to turn out for the big day. Although many waterways are open year-round, the last Saturday in April marks the traditional start of the four- to five-month lowland lake fishing season.
Read More. . .
At least 300,000 anglers are expected to turn out for the big day. Although many waterways are open year-round, the last Saturday in April marks the traditional start of the four- to five-month lowland lake fishing season.
Read More. . .
Columbia spring Chinook fishery open for additional week
Apr 07, 2011 12:19 PM
OLYMPIA - Columbia
River anglers will get at least eight more days to
catch hatchery-reared spring chinook salmon below
Bonneville Dam under a decision announced today by
fishery managers from Washington and Oregon.
The popular fishery, which closed for a catch assessment April 4, will reopen to fishing Friday, April 8, through Friday, April 15. Fishery managers will meet again April 14 to determine whether to allow additional fishing time.
Read More. . .
The popular fishery, which closed for a catch assessment April 4, will reopen to fishing Friday, April 8, through Friday, April 15. Fishery managers will meet again April 14 to determine whether to allow additional fishing time.
Read More. . .
April WDFW Weekender Report
Apr 01, 2011 10:05 AM
Here is the Southwest
Washington portion of WDFW’s Weekender
Report:
Fishing: Anglers have at least through April 4 to catch and keep marked, hatchery-reared spring chinook salmon on the lower Columbia River. Fisheries for shad and hatchery-reared steelhead – which run concurrently with the spring chinook season – are also scheduled to close at the end of the day April 4 on the lower river.
Read More. . .
Fishing: Anglers have at least through April 4 to catch and keep marked, hatchery-reared spring chinook salmon on the lower Columbia River. Fisheries for shad and hatchery-reared steelhead – which run concurrently with the spring chinook season – are also scheduled to close at the end of the day April 4 on the lower river.
Read More. . .
Federal panel adopts options for ocean salmon sport fisheries
Mar 09, 2011 05:26 PM
VANCOUVER, Wash. -
Anglers fishing along the Washington coast will see a
lower catch quota for chinook salmon this year even
though the total number of fish expected to return is
higher.
Three ocean salmon-fishing options approved today by the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) establish a lower harvest range for chinook to protect weak salmon stocks - particularly those returning to the lower Columbia River. The PFMC establishes fishing seasons in ocean waters three to 200 miles off the Pacific coast.
Read More. . .
Three ocean salmon-fishing options approved today by the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) establish a lower harvest range for chinook to protect weak salmon stocks - particularly those returning to the lower Columbia River. The PFMC establishes fishing seasons in ocean waters three to 200 miles off the Pacific coast.
Read More. . .
Strong salmon runs predicted
Mar 01, 2011 04:10 PM
OLYMPIA - Fishing
prospects look bright this year for chinook in
Washington’s ocean waters and the Columbia River,
according to preseason salmon forecasts released
today at a public meeting in Olympia.
Opportunities for anglers also look good in Puget Sound, where coho and pink salmon runs are expected to be strong this year.
Forecasts for chinook, coho, sockeye, pink and chum salmon mark the starting point for developing 2011 salmon-fishing seasons in Puget Sound, the Columbia River and Washington coastal areas. The forecasts were developed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and treaty Indian tribes.
Read More. . .
Opportunities for anglers also look good in Puget Sound, where coho and pink salmon runs are expected to be strong this year.
Forecasts for chinook, coho, sockeye, pink and chum salmon mark the starting point for developing 2011 salmon-fishing seasons in Puget Sound, the Columbia River and Washington coastal areas. The forecasts were developed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and treaty Indian tribes.
Read More. . .
WDFW Weekender Report for March
Feb 24, 2011 02:39 AM
Southwest
Washington
Fishing: Spring chinook fever is beginning to take hold on the Columbia River. More than 50 boats were counted on the lower river one day in mid February when only a few fish had been counted at Bonneville Dam. By late March – when the bulk of the run is expected to arrive – that number is expected to grow to nearly 2,000 per day.
Read More. . .
Fishing: Spring chinook fever is beginning to take hold on the Columbia River. More than 50 boats were counted on the lower river one day in mid February when only a few fish had been counted at Bonneville Dam. By late March – when the bulk of the run is expected to arrive – that number is expected to grow to nearly 2,000 per day.
Read More. . .
WDFW sets public meeting on salmon forecast
Feb 18, 2011 03:33 PM
OLYMPIA - Anglers,
commercial fishers and others interested in
Washington state salmon fisheries can get a preview
of this year’s salmon returns and proposed fishing
seasons during a public meeting here March 1.
Kicking off the annual salmon season-setting process, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will present initial forecasts compiled by state and tribal biologists of 2011 salmon returns.
Read More. . .
Kicking off the annual salmon season-setting process, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will present initial forecasts compiled by state and tribal biologists of 2011 salmon returns.
Read More. . .
2011 Columbia River Spring Chinook rules set
Feb 18, 2011 10:40 AM
[Note: These fishing
rules were outlined in a
news release sent Feb. 8, 2011.]
Action: Sets fishing regulations for spring chinook on the mainstem Columbia River
Species affected: Spring chinook, steelhead and shad.
Location #1: The mainstem Columbia River from Buoy 10 upstream to Rooster Rock - bank and boat angling allowed.
Location #2: The mainstem Columbia River from Rooster Rock upstream to Bonneville Dam - bank angling only. Rooster Rock boundary description: A true North/South line projected from Rooster Rock on the Oregon shore to the Washington shoreline
Effective date: March 1 - April 4, 2011: fishing for salmonids and shad is allowed
Read more...
Action: Sets fishing regulations for spring chinook on the mainstem Columbia River
Species affected: Spring chinook, steelhead and shad.
Location #1: The mainstem Columbia River from Buoy 10 upstream to Rooster Rock - bank and boat angling allowed.
Location #2: The mainstem Columbia River from Rooster Rock upstream to Bonneville Dam - bank angling only. Rooster Rock boundary description: A true North/South line projected from Rooster Rock on the Oregon shore to the Washington shoreline
Effective date: March 1 - April 4, 2011: fishing for salmonids and shad is allowed
Read more...
Columbia River seasons set for Spring Chinook & Sturgeon
Feb 08, 2011 04:53 PM
OREGON CITY, Ore. -
Fishery managers from Washington and Oregon today set
fishing seasons for Columbia River spring chinook
salmon and white sturgeon that are expected to draw
nearly two hundred thousand anglers to the big river
this year.
Most of the new rules will take effect March 1, when fishing for spring chinook and sturgeon starts to heat up on the Columbia River. Sport fishing is currently open for both species on various sections of the river under rules adopted last year.
Read More. . .
Most of the new rules will take effect March 1, when fishing for spring chinook and sturgeon starts to heat up on the Columbia River. Sport fishing is currently open for both species on various sections of the river under rules adopted last year.
Read More. . .
WDFW Weekender Report for January 2011
Dec 29, 2010 01:47 PM
Southwest
Washington
Fishing: Winter steelhead are still the name of the game in the Columbia River Basin, although several other fisheries are beginning to compete for anglers’ attention. Sturgeon fishing reopens Jan. 1 from the mouth of the Columbia to McNary Dam, and state hatchery workers have begun planting dozens of regional lakes with thousands of rainbow trout.
Read More. . .
Fishing: Winter steelhead are still the name of the game in the Columbia River Basin, although several other fisheries are beginning to compete for anglers’ attention. Sturgeon fishing reopens Jan. 1 from the mouth of the Columbia to McNary Dam, and state hatchery workers have begun planting dozens of regional lakes with thousands of rainbow trout.
Read More. . .
Inland Fish Policy Advisory Group nominations open
Dec 03, 2010 11:16 AM
OLYMPIA - The
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is
seeking nominations through Dec. 31 for membership on
the Inland Fish Policy Advisory Group.
Up to 20 qualified individuals will be chosen to serve on the advisory group for 2011 and 2012. Those selected will provide guidance to WDFW on statewide issues related to management of inland fish species, such as rainbow trout, bass and kokanee. They also serve as an important communication link between WDFW and its constituents.Read More. . .
Up to 20 qualified individuals will be chosen to serve on the advisory group for 2011 and 2012. Those selected will provide guidance to WDFW on statewide issues related to management of inland fish species, such as rainbow trout, bass and kokanee. They also serve as an important communication link between WDFW and its constituents.Read More. . .
Gift ideas from WDFW
Dec 03, 2010 09:44 AM
Holiday shoppers
looking for the perfect gift for the fish and
wildlife enthusiast on their list can choose from a
variety of products and privileges offered by the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
Wildlife-themed license plates are always a popular gift, and fishing and hunting licenses are now on sale for the new licensing period that begins April 1. These and other options – from wildlife area vehicle-access permits to wildlife-related books – are featured at http://wdfw.wa.gov/gifts/ on WDFW’s website.
Read More. . .
Wildlife-themed license plates are always a popular gift, and fishing and hunting licenses are now on sale for the new licensing period that begins April 1. These and other options – from wildlife area vehicle-access permits to wildlife-related books – are featured at http://wdfw.wa.gov/gifts/ on WDFW’s website.
Read More. . .
Sports Advisory Group nominations open
Dec 03, 2010 09:40 AM
OLYMPIA - The
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is
seeking nominations through Dec. 31 for membership on
its sport fishing advisory group.
Up to 20 qualified individuals will be chosen to serve on the Anadromous and Marine Resources Sport Fishing Advisory Group for 2011 and 2012. Those selected will provide guidance to WDFW on issues affecting recreational fisheries for salmon, rockfish and other marine fish species.
Read More. . .
Up to 20 qualified individuals will be chosen to serve on the Anadromous and Marine Resources Sport Fishing Advisory Group for 2011 and 2012. Those selected will provide guidance to WDFW on issues affecting recreational fisheries for salmon, rockfish and other marine fish species.
Read More. . .
WDFW December Weekender Report
Dec 01, 2010 03:46 PM
Southwest
Washington
Fishing: This year's winter steelhead season got off to a promising start around Thanksgiving, when the first wave of fish started taking anglers' lures in several tributaries to the lower Columbia River. With decent river conditions, catch rates should continue to improve in the weeks ahead, said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
"Despite cold weather, that first jag of winter steelhead was definitely on the bite," Hymer said. "So long as the rivers don't rise too high or fall too low, we could be looking at a darn good fishery this year."
Read More. . .
Fishing: This year's winter steelhead season got off to a promising start around Thanksgiving, when the first wave of fish started taking anglers' lures in several tributaries to the lower Columbia River. With decent river conditions, catch rates should continue to improve in the weeks ahead, said Joe Hymer, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
"Despite cold weather, that first jag of winter steelhead was definitely on the bite," Hymer said. "So long as the rivers don't rise too high or fall too low, we could be looking at a darn good fishery this year."
Read More. . .
Tilton River opens for night fishing
Nov 10, 2010 01:48 PM
Action:
Reopen Tilton River to
all night fishing
Effective Dates: Nov. 11 through Dec. 31, 2010
Species affected: All species
Location: Tilton River from mouth to West Fork
Read more...
Effective Dates: Nov. 11 through Dec. 31, 2010
Species affected: All species
Location: Tilton River from mouth to West Fork
Read more...
WDFW posts survey of enforcement program
Nov 01, 2010 01:18 PM
OLYMPIA - The
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is
conducting a public survey to help assess the
agency’s Enforcement Program.
The survey, available HERE on WDFW’s website, consists of about 20 questions concerning the program’s priorities and performance in the field. It will take approximately 10 minutes to complete.Read More. . .
The survey, available HERE on WDFW’s website, consists of about 20 questions concerning the program’s priorities and performance in the field. It will take approximately 10 minutes to complete.Read More. . .
Nominations sought for steelhead/cutthroat advisory group
Oct 12, 2010 11:00 AM
OLYMPIA - The
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is
seeking nominations through Dec. 1 for membership on
the Steelhead/Cutthroat Policy Advisory Group.
Up to 20 qualified individuals will be chosen to serve on the advisory group for 2011 and 2012. Those selected will provide guidance to WDFW on statewide issues related to management of steelhead and cutthroat. They also serve as an important communication link between WDFW and its constituents.
Read More. . .
Up to 20 qualified individuals will be chosen to serve on the advisory group for 2011 and 2012. Those selected will provide guidance to WDFW on statewide issues related to management of steelhead and cutthroat. They also serve as an important communication link between WDFW and its constituents.
Read More. . .
Tilton River closed to all night fishing
Sep 30, 2010 03:07 PM
Action: Close Tilton
River to all night fishing.
Effective Dates: Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2010.
Read more...
Effective Dates: Oct. 1 through Dec. 31, 2010.
Read more...
WDFW Weekender Report for October
Sep 29, 2010 07:35 PM
Fishing:
Coho salmon are moving
up the Columbia River and into area tributaries,
where anglers can still reel in bright chinook on
some rivers. But starting Oct. 1, anglers have
another option to consider: Sturgeon fishing in the
mainstem Columbia River from the Wauna powerlines
upstream to Bonneville Dam.
"This is a great fishing opportunity for fall, especially for anglers who don’t have boats," said Brad James, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). "Bank anglers have done very well, historically, fishing for sturgeon just below Bonneville Dam."
Read More. . .
"This is a great fishing opportunity for fall, especially for anglers who don’t have boats," said Brad James, a fish biologist for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). "Bank anglers have done very well, historically, fishing for sturgeon just below Bonneville Dam."
Read More. . .
Lower Kalama River closing to Chinook retention
Sep 17, 2010 05:28 PM
Action: Close lower
Kalama River to all Chinook retention.
Effective Dates: Effective Sept. 20 through Dec. 31, 2010.
Species affected: Chinook salmon.
Location: Kalama River from boundary markers at the mouth to 1000’ below the fishway at upper salmon hatchery.
Read More. . .
Effective Dates: Effective Sept. 20 through Dec. 31, 2010.
Species affected: Chinook salmon.
Location: Kalama River from boundary markers at the mouth to 1000’ below the fishway at upper salmon hatchery.
Read More. . .
Adipose fin Cowlitz Chinook can be retained
Sep 16, 2010 05:58 PM
Action: Anglers may
keep one adult chinook with an intact adipose fin as
part of the two adult chinook daily limit on the
Cowlitz River.
Effective date: Sept. 18 through Dec. 31, 2010.
Location: Cowlitz River from boundary markers at the mouth to 400 feet below Mayfield Dam Powerhouse.
Species affected: Chinook salmon.Read More. . .
Effective date: Sept. 18 through Dec. 31, 2010.
Location: Cowlitz River from boundary markers at the mouth to 400 feet below Mayfield Dam Powerhouse.
Species affected: Chinook salmon.Read More. . .
Comment open on sportfishing rules
Sep 02, 2010 04:53 PM
OLYMPIA - The
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is
accepting public comments through Oct. 2 on state
sportfishing rules proposed for 2011-12.
The 17 rule proposals, which would affect various recreational fisheries around the state, are available on WDFW’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/rule_proposals/ . Printed copies of the proposals are available by contacting WDFW’s Fish Program at (360) 902-2700.
Read More. . .
The 17 rule proposals, which would affect various recreational fisheries around the state, are available on WDFW’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/rule_proposals/ . Printed copies of the proposals are available by contacting WDFW’s Fish Program at (360) 902-2700.
Read More. . .
WDFW offices closed Sept. 7
Sep 02, 2010 04:41 PM
OLYMPIA-Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) offices will
close Tuesday, Sept. 7, for the third of 10
statewide, unpaid employee-layoff days.
During the closure, WDFW wildlife areas and water-access sites will remain open for public use, but WDFW hatcheries will not be open to the public. Fishing and hunting licenses may be purchased online at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/ and at retail vendors.Read More. . .
During the closure, WDFW wildlife areas and water-access sites will remain open for public use, but WDFW hatcheries will not be open to the public. Fishing and hunting licenses may be purchased online at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/ and at retail vendors.Read More. . .
WDF&W Weekender Report
Jul 29, 2010 09:11 AM
Southwest
Washington
Fishing: For Columbia River anglers, this month provides a great opportunity for a triple play. Fishing seasons for fall Chinook salmon and hatchery coho open Aug. 1, while summer steelhead are expected to continue providing good fishing well into September.
Read More. . .
Fishing: For Columbia River anglers, this month provides a great opportunity for a triple play. Fishing seasons for fall Chinook salmon and hatchery coho open Aug. 1, while summer steelhead are expected to continue providing good fishing well into September.
Read More. . .
WDFW seeks volunteers regarding elk hunt
Jul 27, 2010 12:27 PM
OLYMPIA - The
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is
seeking volunteers to participate in a cooperative
arrangement that has given hunters access to
approximately 250,000 acres of private timberlands
near Mount St. Helens in the last three years.
For the fourth year, the Weyerhaeuser Company is prepared to give hunters holding special elk permits additional motorized access to miles of private logging roads on the St. Helens Tree Farm, provided that enough volunteers can be found to assure a safe and orderly hunt.
Read More. . .
For the fourth year, the Weyerhaeuser Company is prepared to give hunters holding special elk permits additional motorized access to miles of private logging roads on the St. Helens Tree Farm, provided that enough volunteers can be found to assure a safe and orderly hunt.
Read More. . .
Upcoming meetings set for Cowlitz River Ad-hoc Advisory Group
Jul 21, 2010 11:21 AM
The Washington
Department of Fish & Wildlife’s recently formed
Cowlitz River Ad-hoc Advisory Group is meeting twice
a month at the Lewis County PUD’s office in Chehalis,
Washington. The next meeting is set for 1-4 p.m. on
Thursday, July 22. The meetings are open for the
public to attend.
Meetings are also set for August 5 and August 26 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Here is a list of advisory group members and here is the WDFW news release announcing formation of the group.
Meetings are also set for August 5 and August 26 from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Here is a list of advisory group members and here is the WDFW news release announcing formation of the group.
Text a tip on fish and wildlife violations
Jul 13, 2010 11:03 AM
OLYMPIA - Reporting
poaching and other fish and wildlife violations to
the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)
just got easier.
WDFW has added a new text-messaging option for reporting activity that threatens fish, wildlife and critical habitat. Tip411 allows users to send a text message to WDFW’s communications dispatch center.
Read More. . .
WDFW has added a new text-messaging option for reporting activity that threatens fish, wildlife and critical habitat. Tip411 allows users to send a text message to WDFW’s communications dispatch center.
Read More. . .
WDFW seeks strategic plan comments
Jul 12, 2010 09:44 AM
To Interested Parties:
WDFW is developing our 2011-2017 Strategic Plan and we are asking for your review and input to the draft plan. We’re particularly interested in your views on priority strategies, initiatives and projects the agency should focus on in the coming biennium, July 2011-June 2013. Specifically, we’d like to hear your concerns and proposed solutions to help protect and manage the state’s fish, wildlife and their habitats.
Read More. . .
WDFW is developing our 2011-2017 Strategic Plan and we are asking for your review and input to the draft plan. We’re particularly interested in your views on priority strategies, initiatives and projects the agency should focus on in the coming biennium, July 2011-June 2013. Specifically, we’d like to hear your concerns and proposed solutions to help protect and manage the state’s fish, wildlife and their habitats.
Read More. . .
WDFW offices closed July 12 for unpaid day
Jul 07, 2010 10:45 AM
OLYMPIA - Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) offices, like
those of most other state agencies, will be closed
July 12 for the first of 10 unpaid, temporary
employee layoff days.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
WDFW forms Cowlitz River Ad-hoc Advisory Group
Jun 17, 2010 01:58 PM
The Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife appointed 12 people
to the new Cowlitz River Ad-hoc Advisory Group. The
group meets “to develop recommendations for improving
conservation and sustainable fishing opportunities on
the river,” according to a WDF&W
news release.
Members:
Sean Orr
Bob Reid
Don Glaser
Carl Burke
Dale Scott
Dave Becker
Lonnie Gobel
Jerry Schroeder
Anthony Crocco
Terry Turner
Shannon Wills
Stan Bartle
Members:
Sean Orr
Bob Reid
Don Glaser
Carl Burke
Dale Scott
Dave Becker
Lonnie Gobel
Jerry Schroeder
Anthony Crocco
Terry Turner
Shannon Wills
Stan Bartle
WDFW conducting boat checks
Jun 15, 2010 09:37 AM
OLYMPIA - People
hauling boats to and from Washington waterways this
summer may be stopped by Washington Department of
Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) officers conducting
mandatory checks of boats, trailers and gear for
aquatic invasive species.
The annual check stations and emphasis-patrol program has begun in several parts of the state and will continue through the boating season. The aim is to keep tiny zebra mussels, quagga mussels and other non-native species out of Washington to protect native fish, wildlife and water systems.
Read More. . .
The annual check stations and emphasis-patrol program has begun in several parts of the state and will continue through the boating season. The aim is to keep tiny zebra mussels, quagga mussels and other non-native species out of Washington to protect native fish, wildlife and water systems.
Read More. . .
Fish for free June 12-13
May 24, 2010 04:14 PM
OLYMPIA - Each year,
thousands of Washingtonians go fishing - legally -
without a license. How? By taking advantage of Free
Fishing Weekend, scheduled June 12-13.
During those two days, no license will be required to fish or gather shellfish in any waters open to fishing in Washington state. Also, no vehicle use permit will be required during Free Fishing Weekend to park at any of the 600 water-access sites maintained by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
Read More. . .
During those two days, no license will be required to fish or gather shellfish in any waters open to fishing in Washington state. Also, no vehicle use permit will be required during Free Fishing Weekend to park at any of the 600 water-access sites maintained by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
Read More. . .
Cowlitz hatchery steelhead limit increased
May 21, 2010 03:54 PM
Action:
Cowlitz River anglers
may retain up to three hatchery steelhead.
Species affected: Steelhead
Effective dates: Effective May 22 through Oct. 31, 2010.
Location: From the Hwy. 4 bridge at Kelso upstream to Mayfield Dam.
Read more...
Species affected: Steelhead
Effective dates: Effective May 22 through Oct. 31, 2010.
Location: From the Hwy. 4 bridge at Kelso upstream to Mayfield Dam.
Read more...
Lake Scanewa opens for hatchery spring chinook
May 07, 2010 07:14 AM
Action:
Open Lake Scanewa
(Cowlitz Falls Reservoir) to fishing for hatchery
spring chinook.
Effective dates: May 8 through May 31, 2010.
Species affected: Hatchery chinook salmon
Location: Lake Scanewa (Cowlitz Falls Reservoir) from Cowlitz Falls Dam to listed boundaries in the Cispus and Cowlitz rivers arms (see sport fishing rules pamphlet).
Read more...
Effective dates: May 8 through May 31, 2010.
Species affected: Hatchery chinook salmon
Location: Lake Scanewa (Cowlitz Falls Reservoir) from Cowlitz Falls Dam to listed boundaries in the Cispus and Cowlitz rivers arms (see sport fishing rules pamphlet).
Read more...
WDFW forming Cowlitz advisory group
May 05, 2010 07:21 PM
OLYMPIA - The
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is
seeking nominations through May 21 for membership on
its new Cowlitz River advisory group.
Up to 12 qualified individuals will be chosen to serve on the ad hoc group, which will meet monthly for about a year to develop recommendations for improving conservation and sustainable fishing opportunities on the river.
Read More. . .
Up to 12 qualified individuals will be chosen to serve on the ad hoc group, which will meet monthly for about a year to develop recommendations for improving conservation and sustainable fishing opportunities on the river.
Read More. . .
New fishing rules effective May 1
Apr 28, 2010 01:14 PM
OLYMPIA - Anglers
planning to fish in Washington past the end of the
month should be aware that nearly a hundred new
fishing rules will take effect starting May 1.
The new regulations, affecting everything from catch limits to fishing tackle, are included in the new Fishing in Washington rules pamphlet, published by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) for the 2010-11 season.
Read More. . .
The new regulations, affecting everything from catch limits to fishing tackle, are included in the new Fishing in Washington rules pamphlet, published by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) for the 2010-11 season.
Read More. . .
2010 Washington salmon fisheries set
Apr 15, 2010 05:05 PM
PORTLAND - Salmon
anglers will have improved fishing opportunities for
chinook on the coast and in the Columbia River, while
most recreational fisheries in Puget Sound will be
similar to seasons adopted last year, according to
the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
(WDFW).
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Lowland lakes fishing opens April 24
Apr 05, 2010 10:08 AM
OLYMPIA - The state’s
single biggest fishing season opens April 24, with
lakes throughout the state stocked with millions of
hatchery-reared fish by the Washington Department of
Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
Although many lakes are open year round, the last Saturday in April marks the traditional start of a four-to five-month-long lowland-lakes fishing season.
Read More. . .
Although many lakes are open year round, the last Saturday in April marks the traditional start of a four-to five-month-long lowland-lakes fishing season.
Read More. . .
Riffe Lake fishing rule change
Mar 31, 2010 04:46 PM
Action:
Remove Columbia River
Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement requirement from
Riffe Lake.
Effective date: April 1, 2010.
Species affected: Landlocked salmon and steelhead.
Location: Riffe Lake.
Reason for action: Salmon and steelhead in Riffe Lake are landlocked.
Other information: The Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement will take effect April 1. The Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement still applies to Mayfield Lake.
Information contact: Wolf Dammers, (360) 906-6709.
Effective date: April 1, 2010.
Species affected: Landlocked salmon and steelhead.
Location: Riffe Lake.
Reason for action: Salmon and steelhead in Riffe Lake are landlocked.
Other information: The Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement will take effect April 1. The Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement still applies to Mayfield Lake.
Information contact: Wolf Dammers, (360) 906-6709.
Spring Chinook highlight 2010 salmon forecasts
Mar 03, 2010 05:11 PM
OLYMPIA - Forecasts for
strong chinook salmon returns to the Columbia River
this summer could lead to improved fishing in the
river and Washington’s ocean waters. Fishing
prospects also are looking up for some rivers in
Puget Sound, where coho salmon are expected to return
in increased numbers.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Promising Columbia River Spring Chinook season
Feb 22, 2010 09:55 AM
OLYMPIA - Fishery
managers from Washington and Oregon today adopted
fishing seasons for this year’s spring chinook
fishery on the Columbia River, where the prized
salmon are projected to return in the largest numbers
since at least 1938.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Cowlitz River steelhead fishing rule change
Feb 11, 2010 12:18 PM
Action: Allow retention of
steelhead with a clipped right ventral fin and a
healed scar at the location of the clipped fin.
Read more...
Read more...
Sportfishing rules adopted
Feb 09, 2010 03:16 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
tightened conservation guidelines for Columbia River
sturgeon and approved a new two-year package of
sportfishing rules during its Feb. 4-6 meeting in
Olympia. Read
More. . .
Fishing Seasons Topic of Public Meeting
Feb 08, 2010 08:47 AM
OLYMPIA - Anglers, commercial fishers and others
interested in Washington state salmon fisheries can
get a preview of this year’s salmon returns and
proposed fishing seasons during a public meeting here
March 2.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Sportfishing rules under review
Jan 29, 2010 11:13 AM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
will consider adopting a new package of sportfishing
rules for 2010-12, as well as updates to the Columbia
River sturgeon management policy, during a public
meeting Feb. 4-6 in Olympia.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Public meeting in Kelso on smelt fishing
Dec 24, 2009 02:20 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) has scheduled a public meeting
Wednesday, Jan. 6 in Kelso to discuss prospects for
smelt fisheries on the Cowlitz River and other
tributaries to the Columbia River in 2010.
Read
More. . .
WDFW accepting grant applications
Nov 30, 2009 02:08 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) will begin accepting grant
applications Dec. 1 from individuals and groups
seeking financial support for volunteer projects that
benefit fish and wildlife.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Comment now on proposed sportfishing rules
Nov 23, 2009 11:28 AM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
will accept final public input on new state
sportfishing rules proposed for 2010-12 during its
Dec. 4-5 meeting in Olympia. The sportfishing rules
hearing is scheduled to begin at noon on Saturday,
Dec. 5.Read
More. . .
Salmon, steelhead "endorsement" required in April 2010
Nov 18, 2009 02:48 PM
OLYMPIA - Starting April 1, anglers who fish for
salmon and steelhead in the Columbia River and its
tributaries will be required to purchase a new
endorsement that will help maintain and improve
fishing opportunities throughout the
basin.Read
More. . .
Winter issue of Fish & Wildlife Planner available
Nov 18, 2009 02:45 PM
The Winter 2009 issue of the Fish and Wildlife
Planner is now available at http://wdfw.wa.gov/hab/fw_planner
. This newsletter addresses issues
relevant to fish and wildlife planning and is
specifically meant to assist Washington's
planning professionals. Read
More. . .
New hatchery & fisheries policy adopted
Nov 07, 2009 09:06 AM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
today voted to adopt a new state hatchery and fishery
reform policy designed to accelerate recovery of wild
salmon and steelhead while also supporting
sustainable fisheries.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
WDFW accepting comments through Dec. 1 on 2010-12 sportfishing rule proposals
Nov 04, 2009 03:56 PM
OLYMPIA - There's still time for people to provide
comments to the Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) on state sportfishing rules proposed
for 2010-12. WDFW will accept written comments on the
proposals through Dec. 1. The proposed rules include
several measures designed to protect fish and
shellfish.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Release Chinook upstream of Blue Creek
Oct 01, 2009 05:26 PM
Anglers must release adult chinook on the Cowlitz
River from Blue Creek upstream to Mill
Creek. Read
more...
I-5 Boat Inspections Sept. 25
Sep 18, 2009 04:35 PM
OLYMPIA - As part of an ongoing effort to keep
aquatic invasive species out of Washington waters,
all northbound vehicles transporting watercraft past
the Ridgefield weigh station on Interstate 5 will be
required to stop for an inspection Friday, Sept.
25.Read
More. . .
Phil Anderson new WDFW director
Sep 12, 2009 09:06 AM
OLYMPIA - Phil Anderson, who has served as interim
director of the Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) for more than nine months, was chosen
today as the department's permanent director.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
2-pole fishing option starts 8/15
Aug 10, 2009 07:07 PM
OLYMPIA - Recreational anglers will soon have the
option of using two poles while fishing in most
Washington lakes under a new law passed by the state
Legislature.
Effective Aug. 15, the two-pole endorsement option will apply to the majority of the 8,000 fishing lakes, ponds and reservoirs in Washington state. Endorsements will be available Aug. 13 from authorized license dealers, listed at http://wdfw.wa.gov/lic/vendors/vendors.htm , or from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/ .
Read more...
Effective Aug. 15, the two-pole endorsement option will apply to the majority of the 8,000 fishing lakes, ponds and reservoirs in Washington state. Endorsements will be available Aug. 13 from authorized license dealers, listed at http://wdfw.wa.gov/lic/vendors/vendors.htm , or from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) at https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/ .
Read more...
WDFW sets new licensing fees
Jul 13, 2009 03:14 PM
OLYMPIA - Washington fishers and hunters will soon
see several changes in recreational license fees,
approved by the 2009 Legislature to help maintain
state fishing and hunting opportunities.
Those changes, which include a temporary surcharge on fishing and hunting licenses, will help offset a $30 million cutback in state funding for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), said Joe Stohr, the department’s deputy director.Read More. . .
Those changes, which include a temporary surcharge on fishing and hunting licenses, will help offset a $30 million cutback in state funding for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), said Joe Stohr, the department’s deputy director.Read More. . .
Lwr. Columbia hatchery steelhead fishing OK
Jun 11, 2009 02:26 PM
OLYMPIA - After a delay of nearly a month, the sport
fishery for hatchery-reared steelhead on the lower
Columbia River will open Friday, June 12 under an
agreement reached Wednesday by fishery managers in
Washington and Oregon.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
WDFW starts mandatory boat checks
May 21, 2009 06:14 PM
OLYMPIA - Starting Memorial Day weekend, boaters
heading to Washington waterways may encounter new
mandatory stops by the Washington Department of Fish
and Wildlife (WDFW) to check for aquatic invasive
species.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
S. Fork Toutle opens for hatchery steelhead
May 21, 2009 03:42 PM
Lower portions of the South Fork Toutle and Green
rivers open May 23 to fishing for hatchery steelhead.
Click here to read more.
Click here to read more.
Comment on hatchery/fishery reform
May 21, 2009 03:36 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
will take final public input on a proposed hatchery
and fishery reform policy during its June 5-6 meeting
in Olympia.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Lake Scanewa Chinook fishing opens
May 16, 2009 10:12 AM
WDF&W opened Lake Scanewa Chinook fishing today.
Here
is their rules posting.
Fishing closures protect upriver stocks
May 16, 2009 10:07 AM
OLYMPIA - Fishing is now closed for salmon and
steelhead on the Columbia River, but anglers are
catching an increasing number of both species on
tributaries flowing into the big river from Longview
to Yakima.
Those fisheries remain open because they have no measurable impact on wild upriver spring chinook salmon, say state fishery managers, who have recently cut short fisheries on the Columbia and Snake rivers to further protect wild stocks listed under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA).Read More. . .
Those fisheries remain open because they have no measurable impact on wild upriver spring chinook salmon, say state fishery managers, who have recently cut short fisheries on the Columbia and Snake rivers to further protect wild stocks listed under the federal Endangered Species Act (ESA).Read More. . .
WDF&W cuts staff, services
May 14, 2009 10:00 PM
OLYMPIA - A $21-million reduction in state and other
funding over the next two years will require the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) to
lay off 76 employees and curtail some public
services.Read
More. . .
Hatchery & fishery reform comments asked
May 14, 2009 09:55 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking public input on a proposed
policy that would guide modifications to state
hatchery operations as well as recreational and
commercial fishery management.Read
More. . .
Lower Columbia steelhead fishery delayed
May 14, 2009 09:51 PM
OLYMPIA - The lower Columbia River will remain closed
to steelhead fishing until further notice to avoid
the incidental catch of protected upriver spring
chinook salmon, fishery managers from Washington and
Oregon announced May 13.Read
More. . .
All Lewis River Spring Chinook must be released
May 08, 2009 05:19 PM
Click
here for info about the WDFW rule change
effective May 11, 2009.
Public invited to propose fisheries' rules changes
Apr 27, 2009 10:22 AM
OLYMPIA - People with ideas on how to improve the
state’s sportfishing rules can submit their proposals
to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
(WDFW) through June 1.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Chehalis River Basin fishing closure
Mar 13, 2009 04:27 PM
A portion of the Chehalis River Basin is closed to
all fishing for the remainder of the winter season.
Read more...
Read more...
Strong Columbia coho run expected
Mar 04, 2009 09:41 AM
OLYMPIA - A return of more than one million Columbia
River coho salmon - the largest run since 2001 - is
expected to brighten fishing prospects this year from
the Washington coast to the Upper Columbia River.
Salmon forecasts also show strong coho runs to many of Washington's other coastal rivers this year, a flood of pink salmon to Puget Sound and improved hatchery fall chinook returns to the Columbia River.Read More. . .
Salmon forecasts also show strong coho runs to many of Washington's other coastal rivers this year, a flood of pink salmon to Puget Sound and improved hatchery fall chinook returns to the Columbia River.Read More. . .
Chinook limit reduced on Lewis, Kalama Rivers
Feb 27, 2009 12:39 PM
Effective March 1, 2009 Lewis and Kalama River
anglers may keep only one adult spring chinook as
part of their daily salmon limit. Also, boat anglers
will be allowed to use electric motors upstream from
the Modrow Bridge on the Kalama River.
Click here for more info.
Click here for more info.
WDFW advises of likely job cuts
Feb 23, 2009 02:04 PM
OLYMPIA-Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
(WDFW) managers this week are advising more than 100
employees their jobs may be eliminated to meet an
expected multi-million-dollar budget shortfall.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Columbia River Spring Chinook Update
Feb 20, 2009 11:30 AM
The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission has
released an informational brochure outlining its
efforts to reach agreement with Oregon on a joint
catch-sharing policy for spring chinook salmon on the
lower Columbia River. Fisheries managers for
both states recently set fishing seasons for March
and April , but the final allocation of spring
chinook between sport and commercial fisheries
remains unresolved.
See the brochure here.
See the brochure here.
March 3 meeting on 2009 salmon forecast
Feb 18, 2009 04:45 PM
OLYMPIA - Anglers, commercial fishers and others
interested in Washington state salmon fisheries can
get a preview of this year's salmon returns and
proposed fishing seasons during a public meeting here
March 3.Read
More. . .
Way cleared to set initial spring Chinook seasons
Feb 10, 2009 12:10 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
is altering its approach in its two-month stalemate
with Oregon over allocating spring chinook salmon
between sport and commercial fisheries on the
Columbia River.Read
More. . .
New sportfishing rules proposed
Jan 28, 2009 05:26 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission
will consider adopting a proposed package of
sportfishing rule changes for the 2009-10 season
during its Feb. 6-7 meeting in Olympia.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
New Washington policy for Columbia Spring Chinook
Jan 16, 2009 05:35 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Fish and Wildlife commission
today approved a new management policy for Columbia
River spring chinook salmon designed to promote
conservation of wild fish while providing stability
for sport and commercial fisheries.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Floods damaging some hatcheries
Jan 08, 2009 04:45 PM
OLYMPIA - Flooding, heavy rainfall and high winds
prompted evacuation of staff from one hatchery and
have damaged other Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) facilities throughout the state.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
WDF&W Fish and Wildlife Planner
Dec 19, 2008 02:46 PM
The Winter issue of the Fish and Wildlife Planner is
now available at http://wdfw.wa.gov/hab/fw_planner/index.htm
. This newsletter addresses issues
relevant to fish and wildlife planning and is
specifically meant to assist Washington's
planning professionals.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Phil Anderson named interim WDF&W director
Dec 01, 2008 07:31 PM
OLYMPIA-In a special meeting today, the Washington
Fish and Wildlife Commission voted to accept the
resignation of Jeffrey P. Koenings, Ph.D., from his
position as director of the Washington Department of
Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), effective Dec. 11, and
appointed Phil Anderson as interim department
director.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
WDF&W Director Koenings Resigns
Dec 01, 2008 07:25 PM
OLYMPIA- After a decade of leadership in fostering
scientific and collaborative management of state
natural resources, Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) Director Jeff Koenings, Ph.D., has
announced his resignation, effective Dec. 11.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Project Grants Available
Nov 19, 2008 08:28 AM
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)
will begin accepting grant applications Dec. 1 from
individuals and groups seeking financial support for
volunteer projects that benefit fish and wildlife.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Dec. 9 workshop about how salmon seasons are set
Nov 17, 2008 08:25 PM
An additional public workshop has been scheduled Dec.
9 to discuss how annual seasons are set for
recreational salmon fisheries, the Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced
today.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Non-buoyant lure restriction/night closure extended on Cowlitz River
Oct 27, 2008 06:08 PM
Click
Here for WDF&W rule extension.
WDFW seeks nominations for advisory group
Oct 14, 2008 03:45 PM
OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and
Wildlife (WDFW) is seeking nominations through Dec. 1
for membership on the Steelhead/Cutthroat Policy
Advisory Group.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Cowlitz River opens Sunday for chinook salmon fishing
Sep 12, 2008 05:20 PM
VANCOUVER, Wash. - Starting Sunday (Sept. 14),
anglers fishing the lower Cowlitz River may keep one
adult chinook salmon as part of their daily catch
limit.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
10-year Agreement Forged for Columbia River Salmon Harvest
Aug 14, 2008 10:04 AM
Portland, Oregon - A new 10-year agreement
guiding salmon harvest and production on the Columbia
River, approved yesterday by a federal judge,
provides a long-term framework for rebuilding weak
fish populations and conducting sustainable
fisheries, state and tribal leaders said today.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Public meetings outline Columbia River hatchery changes
Aug 08, 2008 10:43 AM
OLYMPIA - Modifications to salmon and steelhead
hatchery operations on the lower Columbia River will
be discussed at four public meetings this month in
southwest Washington.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Chinook fishery reopens on Cowlitz, Kalama & Lewis rivers
Jun 25, 2008 09:39 AM
Starting today (June 25), anglers may once again keep
hatchery-reared chinook salmon they catch while
fishing on the Cowlitz, Kalama, and Lewis rivers in
southwest Washington.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Fishing seasons for summer chinook, steelhead
Jun 13, 2008 02:30 PM
VANCOUVER, Wash. - Anglers will once again have a
chance to catch chinook salmon and hatchery steelhead
on large areas of the Columbia River, some of which
have been closed to fishing for both species for the
past month.
Starting Monday (June 16), the sport fishery for summer chinook salmon will open from Bonneville Dam to Priest Rapids Dam and run through July 31. Below Bonneville Dam, anglers can retain adult chinook salmon June 21-28.
Read More. . .
Starting Monday (June 16), the sport fishery for summer chinook salmon will open from Bonneville Dam to Priest Rapids Dam and run through July 31. Below Bonneville Dam, anglers can retain adult chinook salmon June 21-28.
Read More. . .
Ocean salmon fishery opens June 1
May 27, 2008 01:07 PM
The sport fishery for salmon begins June 1 off the
southern coast of Washington, where the first anglers
of the season will cast off from Westport and Ilwaco
a full month earlier than usual.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Spring chinook fishing to close Monday April 21
Apr 17, 2008 02:50 PM
OLYMPIA - After weeks of exceptional salmon fishing,
fishery managers for Washington and Oregon agreed to
close the spring chinook fishery on the lower
Columbia River beginning Monday (April 21), when
anglers are expected to reach their pre-season catch
target.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Chehalis River closed for spring chinook fishery
Apr 15, 2008 11:10 AM
April 15 WDF&W emergency rule.
Read more...
Increased salmon fishing restrictions reflect conservation
Apr 11, 2008 10:08 AM
SEATAC - With
low returns of coho and wild chinook salmon expected
back to several rivers in Washington, salmon
fisheries approved today include increased
restrictions this year for anglers in the ocean,
Puget Sound, and the Columbia River.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
WDFW drawing offers lifetime hunting and fishing privileges
Mar 25, 2008 02:11 PM
A
small investment now could earn a lifetime of savings
for the lucky winners of a unique drawing offered by
the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
(WDFW).
The drawings, which are held four times a year, reward winners with a lifetime of hunting and fishing privileges in Washington state. The cost to enter is $6.50 for Washington residents and $12.50 for non-residents. Those who win will never have to buy another license to hunt or fish in the state. Read More. . .
The drawings, which are held four times a year, reward winners with a lifetime of hunting and fishing privileges in Washington state. The cost to enter is $6.50 for Washington residents and $12.50 for non-residents. Those who win will never have to buy another license to hunt or fish in the state. Read More. . .
Outlook for ocean salmon fisheries reflects poor coho forecasts
Mar 17, 2008 10:43 AM
SACRAMENTO - Washington salmon fishers face a lean
fishing season in the ocean this year following the
lowest Columbia River coho forecast in a decade, the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW)
announced today.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Anglers sought to catch steelhead for genetics study in Cowlitz Basin
Mar 12, 2008 07:41 PM
Anglers are invited to put their skills to work in a
steelhead-genetics study in the Cowlitz River Basin.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Commission approves state plan to rebuild wild steelhead
Mar 10, 2008 10:53 AM
A
new steelhead management plan designed to protect and
rebuild wild stocks throughout the state won approval
by the Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission at a
public meeting here March 8.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Columbia spring chinook fishery opens March 16
Mar 07, 2008 10:58 AM
The popular
spring chinook salmon fishery opens Sunday, March 16,
on portions of the Columbia River with high
expectations and several significant changes from
previous years.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Low returns of coho, wild chinook
Mar 04, 2008 05:39 PM
OLYMPIA -
Hatchery chinook salmon returns to the Columbia River
and portions of Puget Sound are expected to be up
from last year, but low returns of coho and wild
chinook could put a damper on upcoming salmon
fisheries around the state.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Focus of this year’s spring chinook fishery will shift
Feb 19, 2008 09:11 AM
OLYMPIA -
Columbia River anglers will find more opportunities
to catch spring chinook salmon higher upstream this
year under fishing seasons adopted today by fishery
managers from Washington and Oregon.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
New spring chinook guidelines adopted for Columbia
Feb 08, 2008 10:39 PM
OLYMPIA - The
Washington Fish and Wildlife Commission today
approved new allocation guidelines for this year's
spring chinook salmon season on the lower Columbia
River that favor recreational fisheries.
Read More. . .
Read More. . .
Report on Columbia River chinook allocations hearing
Jan 14, 2008 09:39 AM
VANCOUVER, Wash. - Recreational and commercial
fishers testified for more than three-and-a-half
hours before the Washington Fish and Wildlife
Commission here Jan. 12 on ways to apportion the
annual catch of Columbia River chinook salmon.
Previous allocation guidelines expired Dec. 31, raising the possibility that catch ratios governing sport and commercial chinook fisheries on the Columbia River could change.
Read More. . .
Previous allocation guidelines expired Dec. 31, raising the possibility that catch ratios governing sport and commercial chinook fisheries on the Columbia River could change.
Read More. . .
Area opens for wheelchair anglers on Cowlitz River
Jul 05, 2007 04:45 PM
Action: Open a special
wheelchair bound angler fishery.
Effective dates: July 07, 2007 until further notice.
Species affected: All species which are legal to retain in lower Cowlitz River.
Location: At the mouth of the new hatchery outfall at the Cowlitz Trout hatchery within the 100" radius of the outfall within the special wheelchair accessible site which has been developed. (This area is currently closed by emergency rule to all citizen fishing).
Reasons for action: Wheelchair bound anglers have limited options for sport fishing opportunity. This site, developed by Tacoma Power, will provide much needed access.
Other information: Fishers and designated harvesters must be present and participating in the fishery. Regulations will be posted on site.
Information contact: Wolf Dammers 696-6211
Effective dates: July 07, 2007 until further notice.
Species affected: All species which are legal to retain in lower Cowlitz River.
Location: At the mouth of the new hatchery outfall at the Cowlitz Trout hatchery within the 100" radius of the outfall within the special wheelchair accessible site which has been developed. (This area is currently closed by emergency rule to all citizen fishing).
Reasons for action: Wheelchair bound anglers have limited options for sport fishing opportunity. This site, developed by Tacoma Power, will provide much needed access.
Other information: Fishers and designated harvesters must be present and participating in the fishery. Regulations will be posted on site.
Information contact: Wolf Dammers 696-6211