Icicle River Opens For Chinook

Salmon fishing opens on the Icicle River

The Icicle River opened for Chinook yesterday. The reports that we have received so far indicate that there are a fair number of fish already in the system and that fishing has been OK. One of the local guides, Mr. Brad Wagner managed to boat 4 for his clients yesterday. The river is a tad high with about three feet of clarity. This is a very popular fishery with bank access at a minimum and boats launching in the very wee hours of the morning to aquire a good position in the prime holes. Though crowded the fishing can be good and the setting is spectacular. Look forward to perhaps a Chinook opening on the  Wenatchee River later this season.

Actions: Open salmon fishing on the Icicle River (Chelan Co.).

Daily limit: Daily limit two adipose fin clipped spring chinook (adult or jack), minimum size 12 inches.

Species affected: Hatchery adipose fin clipped spring chinook salmon.

Location: Icicle River, from the closure signs located 800 feet upstream of the mouth to 500 feet downstream of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery Barrier Dam.

Effective dates: May 23, 2014 through July 31, 2014.

Reason for action: In-season run analysis has predicted that about 6,000 salmon are currently enroute to the Icicle River. Although upper Columbia River spring chinook have been listed as endangered under the Endangered Species Act (ESA), the salmon returning to the Icicle River are a non-endemic stock returning to Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery, and are not listed under the ESA. About 1,600 salmon are needed to meet hatchery broodstock requirements. The 2014 return ensures that the hatchery will meet its escapement needs; the remaining fish will be available for harvest.

Other Information: Night closure will be in effect. No gear restrictions are in effect. The regulation allowing 2-pole angling on the Columbia River DOES NOT APPLY to the Icicle River. Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license as well as a Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement (CRSSE). Revenue from the CRSSE supports salmon or steelhead seasons on many rivers in the Columbia River system, including enforcing fishery regulations and monitoring the upper Columbia River steelhead fisheries. The endorsement has generated more than $1 million annually for WDFW to maintain and increase fishing opportunities throughout the Columbia River basin.

Information contact: Travis Maitland, District 7 Fish Biologist, (509) 665-3337, Jeff Korth, Region 2 Fish Program Manager, (509) 754-4624.