June 27, 2008

Columbia River estuary sturgeon sport retention season extended for three periods


Action: White sturgeon retention in the Columbia River estuary will be allowed for three additional periods; July 10 - 12, July 17-19, and July 26 - 27: July 10 - July 12 (Thursday-Saturday) - White sturgeon retention allowed daily. July 13 - July 16 - Sturgeon retention prohibited. July 17 - July 19 (Thursday-Saturday) - White sturgeon retention allowed daily. July 20 - July 25 - Sturgeon retention prohibited. July 26 - July 27 (Saturday-Sunday) - White sturgeon retention allowed daily. July 28 - Dec 31 - Sturgeon retention prohibited.

Effective dates: July 10-12, 2008, July 17-19, 2008, and July 26-27, 2008.

Species affected: White Sturgeon

Location: The mainstem Columbia River and tributaries downstream of the Wauna powerline crossing at Rivermile 40 near Cathlamet.

Reason for action: An estimated 8,940 white sturgeon were harvested by the estuary sturgeon retention fishery, which closed June 25, leaving 4,200 sturgeon remaining from the 13,140 fish 2008 harvest guideline. The adopted fishery extension is expected to result in a catch that remains within the harvest guideline set forth in the Joint State management plan concerning lower Columbia River sturgeon management and fisheries.

· Other information: The 45 inch minimum and 60 inch maximum size limits for retention remain in effect for the mainstem Columbia River and tributaries downstream of the Wauna powerlines. The daily limit is one white sturgeon per day and the annual limit is five white sturgeon. Retention of green sturgeon is prohibited. A Joint State Hearing is scheduled for July 22nd to discuss on-going sturgeon sport fisheries in the lower Columbia River.

Information contact: Region 5, (360) 696-6211.


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.