WDFW FISHING RULE CHANGE: Retention of canary rockfish now prohibited in all marine areas

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

March 4, 2004

Retention of canary rockfish now prohibited in all marine areas

Action: Prohibits the retention of canary rockfish in coastal waters.

Effective date: March 4, 2004

Species affected: Canary Rockfish

Location: Marine Areas 1, 2, 3 and 4. (Coastal waters from the Columbia River north to the Canadian border)

Reason for action: This change is necessary so that state regulations conform to federal regulations for canary rockfish in coastal waters. NOAA recently prohibited the retention of canary rockfish in coastal waters by all recreational fishers. This action was taken in response to sharply declining canary rockfish populations along the Pacific coast. The Fish and Wildlife Commission had previously prohibited retention of canary rockfish in Puget Sound so this action means that no canary rockfish can be retained regardless of the area of catch. Canary rockfish are a bright orange in color and are pictured on page 92 of the "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet, which is available at many sporting good stores.

Information contact: Greg Bargmann (360) 902-2825

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.

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