WDFW Fishing Rule Change

Action: The early hatchery steelhead season on the lower portions of the Green and South Fork Toutle rivers (Cowlitz County) is open from the last Saturday in May through May 31.

Species affected: All game fish, including steelhead.

Effective dates: May 25 through May 31, 2013.

Locations:

Green River from the mouth to 400' below the water intake at the upper end of the hatchery.

South Fork Toutle River from the mouth to the 4700 Road Bridge.

Other information: From May 25-May 31 anglers will have a daily limit of two hatchery steelhead. Wild steelhead and all other game fish (including trout) must be released. Selective gear rules will be in effect to minimize handling mortality of smolts and wild adult steelhead that may be present.

The Green River from the mouth to the 2800 Road Bridge and the entire South Fork Toutle River will open to fishing for hatchery steelhead beginning the first Saturday in June, which is June 1 this year. For details on specific regulations, check the Sport Fishing Rules Pamphlet at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/ .

Reason for action: Corrects the ending date for the early hatchery steelhead season on the lower portions of the Green and South Fork Toutle rivers.

Information contact: (360) 696-6211. For latest information press *1010

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.