Action: Increases the daily limit for hatchery coho salmon.

Species affected: Coho salmon.

Effective date: Sept. 11 through Oct. 31, 2021

Location:  Lewis River, from the mouth to overhead power lines below Merwin Dam. 

Rule: 

• Effective Sept. 11 through Sept. 30, 2021, Salmon:  Daily limit 6; up to 6 adults may be retained, of which no more than 2 may be Chinook. Min. size 12”. Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook and hatchery coho.

• Effective Oct. 1 through Oct. 31, 2021, Salmon: Daily limit 6; up to 6 adults may be retained, of which no more than 2 may be Chinook. Min. size 12”. Release all salmon other than Chinook and hatchery coho.

Reason for action: Early coho salmon returns to the Lewis Hatchery are projected to exceed broodstock collection goals for the Lewis Hatchery programs. Modifying coho fisheries will provide additional fishing opportunities while still meeting program and reintroduction goals.

Additional information: All other permanent rules published in the 2021-2022 Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet remain in effect, including the closed waters area shoreward of the cable and corkline at the outlet of Lewis River fish hatchery ladder, the mark-selective rule for Chinook salmon through Sept. 30, and the salmon and steelhead closure from Nov.1 through Dec. 15 from Colvin Creek to the overhead powerlines below Merwin Dam.   

Information contact:  Josua Holowatz, District Fish Biologist, 360-906-6771.