Action: Opens recreational shrimp fisheries.

Effective date: June 20, 2020 until further notice. 

Species affected: All shrimp species.

Location: Marine Area 4 east of the Bonilla-Tatoosh Line. 

Reason for action: Recreational shrimp fisheries usually begin in May for this area, but due to the COVID-19 situation, all recreational fisheries in Marine Area 4 have been closed since March 25, 2020. Marine Area 4 fisheries are scheduled to reopen under permanent rules as listed in the Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet beginning June 20 in coordination with state and local officials. 

Additional information: Shrimp daily limit is 10 pounds, heads and tails, for all species combined, of which no more than 80 spot shrimp can be retained.

Shrimp pot gear may be set or pulled from 1 hour before official sunrise to 1 hour after official sunset each day. Up to two pieces of gear per person and up to four total per boat may be used. Pot gear has a minimum mesh size of 1 inch. 

Each harvester must keep their catch in individual containers, in their possession or labeled with their name. 

Shrimp is open daily west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh Line beginning June 20. Daily limit 25 pounds, heads and tails, of which no more than 200 spot shrimp may be retained. 

Other Puget Sound shrimp season information can be found at:  https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfishing-regulations/shrimp/areas.  

Please be aware, it is WDFW's understanding that the Makah tribal reservation, which includes the port of Neah Bay, remains closed to non-tribal members. Therefore, while Marine Area 4, both east and west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh Line, is open, anglers will need to access Area 4 from Marine Areas 3 or 5.

Information contact: WDFW Fish Program, 360-902-2700.