More Salmon Fishing Closures & Restrictions Due To Low Returns On Coho

Salmon fishing closes in Willapa Bay and tributaries except for Naselle, Nemah, and Willapa rivers, and Fork Creek

Action:

(1) Salmon fishing is closed in Willapa Bay (catch area 2-1).

(2) Salmon fishing is closed in all Willapa Bay tributaries except:

a. Naselle River (Pacific/Wahkiakum counties): Open for salmon fishing from the Highway 4 Bridge to the Crown Mainline (Salme) Bridge. Daily limit 2. Release all salmon except chum and hatchery coho.

b. Willapa River (Pacific County): Open for salmon from the Highway 6 Bridge to Fork Creek. Daily limit 2. Release all salmon except chum and hatchery coho.

c. Fork Creek (Pacific County): Open for salmon. Daily limit 2. Release all salmon except chum and hatchery coho.

d. North Nemah River (Pacific County): Open for salmon through Nov. 30. Daily limit 1. Release all salmon except chum.

(3) Selective gear rules are in effect for salmon and all game fish in all Willapa Bay tributaries.

Effective Date: Nov. 3, 2015, until further notice.

Species affected: Salmon

Location: Willapa Bay and tributaries.

Reason for action: In-season run size assessments conducted by WDFW indicate that coho run sizes are significantly below pre-season forecasts. Conservation objectives may not be achieved for coho if this action is not taken.

Other information: All other special regulations and closures remain in effect. WDFW will continue for monitor the progress of the Willapa Bay coho run.

Information contact: Mike Scharpf, (360) 249-1205