FISHING RULE CHANGE

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

May 31, 2006

Recreational non-spot shrimp fishing opportunity available in several areas on June 1

Action:  Recreational fishing for non-spot shrimp will reopen Thursday, June 1, 2006 in several areas that have been closed since spot shrimp shares were taken.

Effective date:  Thursday, June 1, 2006 at 5:00 a.m.

Species affected:  Non-spot (coonstripe and pink) shrimp.

Locations:  Marine Areas 8-1, 8-2, 9 and 11 are open with a 150 foot maximum fishing depth restriction.  Port Townsend Shrimp District is open south of a line from Walan Point to Kala Point.  Discovery Bay Shrimp District is open south of a line from Tukey Point to Contractors Point. The north/central portion of Marine Area 7 (see WDFW webpage or call Shellfish Rule Change hotline for boundaries) is open with a 200 foot maximum fishing depth restriction.

Reason for action:  Recreational non-spot shrimp shares in these areas are available. 

Other information:  Any spot shrimp caught must be returned immediately to the water unharmed.  The maximum fishing depth restrictions are in effect to protect spot shrimp while still allowing the opportunity to fish for non-spot (coonstripe/pink) shrimp. See page 132 of the “2006-07 Fishing in Washington” rules pamphlet for descriptions of spot, coonstripe and pink shrimp.

Contact:  Mark O’Toole, LaConner (360) 466-4345 ext. 241 or Dave Sterritt, Point Whitney (360) 796-4601 ext. 228.

Check the current WDFW “Fishing in Washington” rules pamphlet or the Fishing section of the WDFW webpage at wdfw.wa.gov for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing regulations are subject to change. For shellfish regulations, check the WDFW Shellfish Rule Change hotline, 360-796-3215, or toll free 1-866-880-5431.  Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500; press 2 for recreational rules.