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

August 12, 2004

Action: Non-buoyant lure restriction, night closure and stationary gear restriction in effect. The line, weight, lure or bait must be moving (not stationary) while in the water. Only fish hooked in the mouth may be retained.

Effective dates: Aug. 14 through Aug. 31, 2004.

Species affected: Salmon and steelhead.

Location: From mouth of the Washougal River to Mt. Norway Bridge at Vernon Road.

Reason for action: To protect returning fall chinook and steelhead from illegal activity such as snagging and assist in achieving adequate escapement for wild and hatchery brood stock needs. The water level currently in the river is extremely low, which causes fish to stack up and become vulnerable to harassment in the lower Washougal River. The night closure allows additional protection for these fish. Beginning September 1, these same rules continue as permanent regulations and are listed on page 54 of the WDFW Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet.

Other information: Fall chinook and wild steelhead returning to the Washougal River are listed as Threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Information contact: John Weinheimer, (360)696-6211.

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.