Lower Cowlitz River Closing To Chinook Fishing

Chinook salmon retention to close on the lower Cowlitz River

Action: Chinook salmon retention closes on the lower Cowlitz River and tributaries (except the Toutle River).

Effective dates: Sept. 22, 2018 until further notice. 

Species affected: Chinook salmon.

Locations: The Cowlitz River and tributaries (except the Toutle River) from the mouth to the Barrier Dam.

Reason for action: The Cowlitz River fall chinook salmon run is tracking far below the pre-season forecast and is currently projected not to meet the hatchery broodstock goal. Closing the lower Cowlitz River to chinook salmon retention will increase the number of hatchery fish available for broodstock and help ensure fishing opportunities in future years.

Additional information: The lower Cowlitz River remains open to harvest of hatchery coho salmon and hatchery steelhead until further notice. The closed waters section below the Barrier Dam will remain 400', at the posted markers, until further notice. All other permanent rules remain in effect. Please refer to the Sport Fishing Pamphlet for complete rule information.

Information Contact: Tom Wadsworth, District Fish Biologist, (360) 906-6709.