Willapa Bay And All Tributaries Reduced To One Salmon Limit

Anglers limited to 1 adult salmon daily, must release
wild coho in Willapa Bay, tributaries starting Jan. 1

Action: Reduces the daily limit to one adult salmon only and requires anglers to release all wild (unmarked) coho salmon beginning Jan. 1, 2018, in Marine Area 2-1 and all Willapa Bay rivers and tributaries.

Effective dates: Jan. 1, 2018, until further notice.

Species affected: Salmon.

Location: Marine Area 2-1 (Willapa Bay), Bear River, Fork Creek, Naselle River and all forks, Nemah River and all forks, Niawiakum River, North River, Palix River, Smith Creek, Willapa River, and South Fork Willapa River.

Reason for action: WDFW has downgraded the forecast for returning wild and hatchery coho in Willapa Bay. Coho returns to the Willapa Bay area are not expected to meet conservation goals. These actions are needed to increase the number of fish available for broodstock to help ensure future returns. 

Other information: Anglers fishing in Willapa Bay, its rivers and tributaries may keep only one adult salmon daily and must release all wild coho. All other regulations listed in the 2017-18 Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet remain in effect.

WDFW will continue to monitor the progress of coho for remainder of the run in Willapa Bay. 

Information Contact: Region 6 Montesano Office, 360-249-4628.