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

August 14, 2007

Action 1: Open chinook fishing in the Okanogan River and the lower Similkameen River Aug. 15 through Sept. 15.

Action 2: Allow game fish, except trout, to be retained in the Okanogan River (upstream of the highway bridge in Malott) Sept. 1 through Sept. 15.

Effective dates: Aug. 15, 2007 through Sept. 15, 2007.

Species affected: Chinook salmon in the Okanogan and Similkameen Rivers and game fish in the Okanogan River

Location 1: The Okanogan River from the Highway 97 Bridge near the mouth to the Highway 97 Bridge just south of Oroville

Location 2: The Similkameen River from the mouth upstream to the Highway 7 Bridge in Oroville

Reason for action: The upper Columbia River summer chinook return at Wells Dam is adequate to provide necessary escapement goals, along with a harvest fishery. The stocks are stable and not listed under the ESA.

Other information: Daily limit is six chinook salmon, no more than two adults. All coho and sockeye must be released. Non-buoyant lure restriction and night closure are in effect for all species.

Information contact: Bob Jateff, District Fish Biologist, Omak (509) 826-7341

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.