FISHING RULE CHANGE WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE 600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091

May 25, 2011

Action: Close the recreational halibut fishery in Marine Area 2, except that halibut fishing is allowed in the northern nearshore area from the Queets River (47 31.70'N. latitude) south to Point Chehalis (46 58.00'N latitude) and east of a line approximating the 30 fathom depth contour as defined by the following coordinates until further notice.

47 31.70 N. lat, 124 37.03 W. long

47 25.67 N. lat, 124 34.79 W. long

47 12.82 N. lat, 124 29.12 W. long

46 58.00 N. lat, 124 24.24 W. long

Re-open Marine Areas 3 and 4 (Neah Bay and La Push).

Effective date: Marine Area 2 closes immediately. Marine Areas 3 and 4 will re-open June 2 and June 4, 2011, Thursday and Saturday only.

Species affected: Halibut

Location: Marine Areas 2, 3 and 4

Reason for action The Marine Area 2 recreational halibut fishery is projected to have taken the Pacific halibut quota set aside for the primary season. A separate quota set aside is sufficient to continue to allow halibut fishing seven days per week in the northern nearshore area. There is sufficient halibut quota remaining in Marine Areas 3 and 4 to re-open the recreational halibut fishery for two days. This rule conforms to federal action taken by the Pacific Fisheries Management Council. Anglers are encouraged to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website or hotline for information regarding re-openings.

Information contact: Heather Reed, (360) 249-4628 ext. 202

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.