Local News

Sockeye salmon retention begins in Lake Osoyoos

Jul 11, 2014

Action: Anglers will be able to retain adult sockeye salmon in Lake Osoyoos

Effective dates: July 11 through Oct. 15, 2014

Location: Lake Osoyoos south of the 49^th parallel (US-Canadian border, which is marked with large fluorescent orange signs)

Species affected: Sockeye salmon

Reason for action: Sockeye salmon returns above Zosel Dam are predicted to be in excess of needs for wild fish escapement to the spawning grounds. The population is not listed under the Endangered Species Act (ESA).

Other rules: Minimum size 12 inches. Daily limit is six sockeye salmon. Release all other salmon. Statewide freshwater gear rules apply. From July 11 through Aug. 31, 2014, anglers may fish with two poles with a Two-Pole endorsement. Release all sockeye with colored anchor (floy) tag attached.

Information contacts: Jeff Korth, Region Two Fish Program Manager, Ephrata, (509) 754-4624, ext 224 and Ryan Fortier, District Six Fish Biologist, Twisp (509) 997-0316.

OTHER ANGLER INFORMATION:

All anglers must possess a valid fishing license and a Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement to participate in this fishery. Revenue from the endorsement supports salmon or steelhead seasons on many rivers in the Columbia River system, including enforcing fishery regulations and monitoring the upper Columbia River steelhead fisheries. The endorsement has generated more than $1 million annually for WDFW to maintain and increase fishing opportunities throughout the Columbia River Basin.

Check the fishing hotline at 360-902-2500 or the webpage at https://fortress.wa.gov/dfw/erules/efishrules/rules_all_freshwater.j.