Stillaguamish River system will close to fishing early
Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife
Reasons for action: The 2010-2011 forecast of wild steelhead returning to the Stillaguamish River system is well below the spawning goal. These closures will reduce the incidental hooking mortalities of wild steelhead. Puget Sound wild steelhead populations are listed as "Threatened" under the Endangered Species Act.
Action: Close the Stillaguamish River system to fishing.
Species affected: All game fish.
Locations and effective dates:
- Stillaguamish River: From Marine Drive upstream to forks will be closed to all fishing on Feb. 1, 2011.
- Pilchuck Creek: From mouth to Highway 9 bridge will be closed to all fishing on Feb. 1, 2011.
- North Fork Stillaguamish River: From mouth to mouth of French Creek will be closed to all fishing on Feb. 1, 2011.
- North Fork Stillaguamish River: From mouth of French Creek to Swede Heaven Bridge will be closed to all fishing on Feb. 16, 2011.
- South Fork Stillaguamish River: From mouth to 400 feet below Granite Falls fishway outlet will be closed to all fishing on Feb. 1, 2011.
- Canyon Creek: From mouth upstream will be closed to all fishing Feb. 1, 2011.
Other information: Rules re-opening fisheries in the Stillaguamish River basin will be listed in the 2011/2012 Sportfishing Rules Pamphlet.
Information Contact: Annette Hoffmann, Region 4 Fish Program Manager, (425) 775-1311, Annette.Hoffmann@dfw.wa.gov
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.