FISHING RULE CHANGE

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

June 20, 2006          

Lower Section of the Okanogan River to open for salmon fishing July 1

Action:  Open the Okanogan River from the mouth to the Hwy 97 Bridge immediately upstream of mouth to salmon fishing beginning July 1.

Effective dates: July 1, 2006, through Oct. 15, 2006.

Species affected: Chinook salmon.

Location:  The Okanogan River from the mouth to the Hwy 97 Bridge immediately upstream of mouth.

Reason for action: In the 2006-2007 regulation pamphlet, the Okanogan River was inadvertently listed as opening July 16 but the intent was to open this section on the same date as the adjacent area of the Columbia River. 

Other information: Daily limit is six salmon, no more than two adults.  All coho and sockeye must be released.  Non-buoyant lure restriction and night closure are in effect.

Information contact: Bob Jateff, District Fish Biologist, Omak (509) 826-7341.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license. Check the WDFW 2006-2007 “Fishing in Washington” rules pamphlet or the Fishing section of the WDFW webpage at http:www.wa.gov/wdfw for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing regulations are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360) 796-3215.

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