Washington Salmon

OLYMPIA - The recreational fishery in Marine Area 7 (San Juan Islands) will close to salmon fishing at the end of the day Feb. 15.

Fishery managers with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) made the decision after evaluating catch rates for the area, said Ron Warren, policy lead for WDFW's fish program.

"We're thrilled that anglers have done so well fishing in the San Juans over the last several weeks," Warren said. "This step, similar to the previous actions we've taken, is being done to protect wild chinook stocks."

In January, WDFW reduced the catch limit in the San Juan Islands to one salmon per day, down from two, and later limited fishing to a schedule of Friday, Saturday and Sunday each week in an effort keep the fishery open as long as possible.

Anyone still hoping to fish for chinook salmon in nearby waters can head to marine areas 6 (eastern Strait of Juan de Fuca), 8-1 (Deception Pass), 8-2 (Port Susan) and 9 (Admiralty Inlet), which are scheduled to remain open into April. Anglers should check for updates on WDFW's Fishing Hotline (360-902-2500) or the department's website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/ .