Action: Opens angling for and retention of hatchery steelhead

Effective date: Oct. 6 through Oct. 31, 2022.

Species affected: Hatchery steelhead. 

Location: Drano Lake.

Rule:  Salmon and hatchery steelhead daily limit is 6 fish, of which 1 may be an adult salmon or hatchery steelhead. Salmon min. size 12".

Reason for action: Summer steelhead fisheries for 2022 were closed in Drano Lake through the North of Falcon rule-making process based on low preseason forecasts and the need to limit impacts to Endangered Species Act-listed steelhead in non-treaty fisheries. The estimated return of B-index summer steelhead, the primary stock currently passing Bonneville Dam, was recently increased from preseason forecasts. Mainstem Columbia River temperatures are also decreasing, likely reducing the number of ESA-listed summer steelhead occupying Drano Lake. Reopening hatchery steelhead retention at this time will provide added sport fishing opportunity for anglers, while also meeting conservation objectives for ESA-listed steelhead stocks. 

Additional information: All other permanent rules remain in effect. Beginning Nov. 1, 2022, permanent rules published in the 2022-2023 Sport Fishing Rules Pamphlet will resume; anglers are reminded to consult the fishing rules pamphlet and check for emergency rule changes before hitting the water.

Anglers can be notified of in-season rule changes as they are announced by signing up for WDFW Regulation Updates at wdfw.wa.gov/about/lists.

Information contact: Matt Gardner, District Fish Biologist, (360) 906-6746.