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

November 5, 2008

Actions: The Columbia River from Rocky Reach Dam up-river to Wells Dam will open to fishing for adipose-fin clipped hatchery-origin steelhead. Two (2) fish daily limit, 20-inch minimum size, selective gear rules, except bait, scent and motorized vessels allowed, night closure in effect. All other game fish gear rules do not apply during steelhead season.

Effective dates: One hour before sunrise on Nov. 6, 2008 until further notice

Species affected: steelhead

Location: The Columbia River from Rocky Reach Dam up-river to 400 feet below Wells Dam

Important Angler Notes:

· Anglers are strongly encouraged to retain the first two adipose fin-clipped hatchery-origin steelhead caught. It is unlawful for anglers to continue to fish once the daily limit of steelhead has been retained.

· Release any steelhead with anchor (floy) tag attached

· For all waters, any steelhead caught with an intact adipose fin must be released immediately and may not be totally removed from the water before release.

Reason for action: The fishery will reduce the proportion of hatchery-origin steelhead on the spawning grounds, minimizing impact to wild steelhead and thus increase natural production.

Information contacts: Art Viola, District 7 Fish Biologist, (509) 665-3337, Bob Jateff, District 6 Fish Biologist, (509) 997-0316, Jeff Korth Region 2 Fish Program Manager, (509) 754-4624.

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.