Salmon Limits Increased In Columbia Above Preist Rapids Dam

Salmon daily limits increased for mainstem Columbia River above Priest Rapids Dam

Action: Anglers will be able to retain eight salmon and up to six adult sockeye salmon in the mainstem Columbia River above Priest Rapids Dam.

Effective dates and locations:

Mainstem Columbia River

(1) From Priest Rapids Dam to Wanapum Dam, July 11 - Aug 31, 2014.

(2) From Wanapum Dam to Wells Dam, July 11 - Oct 15, 2014.

(3) From Wells Dam to Hwy 173 Bridge in Brewster, July 16 - Aug 31, 2014.

(4) From Hwy 173 Bridge in Brewster to Chief Joseph Dam, July 11 - Oct 15, 2014.

Species affected: Sockeye salmon

Reason for action: Sockeye salmon returns above Priest Rapids Dam are predicted to be far in excess of needs for wild fish escapement to the spawning grounds. The population is not listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Other rules: Minimum size 12 inches. Daily limit eight salmon, up to two may be adult hatchery chinook and up to six may be sockeye. Release coho and wild adult chinook. Release all sockeye with colored anchor (floy) tag attached.

Information contact: Travis Maitland, District 7 Fish Biologist, Wenatchee, (509) 665-3337, Ryan Fortier, District 6 Fish Biologist, Twisp (509) 997-0316, Jeff Korth, Region Two Fish Program Manager, Ephrata, (509) 754-4624 ext. 224.

Other information: All anglers must possess a valid fishing license and a Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement to participate in this fishery. Revenue from the endorsement 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.