Sockeye To Be Released In Marine Area 12 (hood Canal)

Anglers must release sockeye in Marine Area 12

Action: Anglers are required to release sockeye salmon in Marine Area 12 (Hood Canal).

Effective date: July 26 through Sept. 30, 2019.

Species affected: Sockeye salmon.

Location: Marine Area 12 (Hood Canal).

Reason for action: An effort to reintroduce sockeye salmon to Lake Cushman is underway. This is the first year sockeye are returning to this program from a small release in 2017. Managers anticipate the total return to be small in number and are seeking to maximize broodstock available for the program. Therefore, sockeye retention is being closed in the marine area. Future fisheries for sockeye salmon in Marine Area 12 will be considered when a healthy sockeye run is established.

Additional information: For specific regulations, anglers should consult the 2019-20 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet available online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/.

Information contact: David Stormer, Puget Sound Recreational Salmon Manager, 360-902-0058; Mark Baltzell, Puget Sound Salmon Manager, 360-902-2807.