WDFW FISHING RULE CHANGE
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091
http://wdfw.wa.gov
April 22, 2010
Anti-snagging rule rescinded, season extended for
Ringold area bank spring chinook fishery
Action: Rescind anti-snagging rule; extend season.

Effective date: May 1, through June 30, 2010.

Species affected: Chinook salmon.

Location: Waters of the Columbia River adjacent to Ringold Springs Rearing Facility (RSRF) in Franklin Co. from the WDFW markers ? mile downstream of the Ringold irrigation wasteway outlet to the markers ? mile upstream of Ringold Springs Creek (hatchery outlet). Only the hatchery side of the river is open - bank fishing only; Ringold Springs Creek (hatchery outlet) is closed .

Reason for action: Fishery managers predict a harvestable return of hatchery spring chinook to the RSRF this year. One "anti-snagging rule" is being removed for this bank fishery to allow anglers to use up to two, single-point hooks (barbed or barbless). Treble hooks are not permitted.

Other information: Daily limit: Two hatchery salmon, 12-inch minimum size. Only chinook with a clipped adipose fin and having a healed scar at the location of the fin may be retained. Night closure in effect . All wild chinook (with an intact adipose fin) must be released immediately and may not be removed from the water. The new Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement is required to participate in this fishery .

Information contacts: Paul Hoffarth, District 4 Fish Biologist, (509) 545-2284 (Pasco) or John Easterbrooks, Regional Fish Program Manager, (509) 457-9330 (Yakima)
Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing rules 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 or toll free 1-866-880-5431.

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