Fishing enthusiasts, gear up for some salmon action on the Cowlitz River, as Washington state regulators have greenlit the retention of adipose fin-clipped Chinook salmon. Starting May 25 and running through July 31, fishermen can reel in these specific hatchery fish. Anglers must note that only salmon measuring at least 12 inches can be kept, and they're limited to six a day—this includes a max of one adult, according to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The change comes after earlier restrictions were placed to prioritize the spring Chinook salmon broodstock collection, which is on track with its goal, the WDFW said, in March, adult Chinook with both adipose and ventral fin clips had to be released to maintain sufficient numbers for broodstock, as per the WDFW. However, the broodstock collection is currently on course, and hatchery Chinooks are being transported upstream for reintroduction, making the retention of one adult hatchery Chinook per day per angler warranted, this expansion in retention not only reflects the success in broodstock collection but also enables the reintroduction of more fish to restore aquatic populations.
For those who frequent the Cowlitz River for its fishing offerings, the location to keep in mind extends from the mouth of the river up to the signs indicating the fishing boundary below the Barrier Dam, as detailed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. The WDFW's recent decision underscores not only the progress made towards conservation goals but also considers the recreational fishing community, which contributes to local economies and the preservation culture that is integral to the region.
While the update is a cause for some celebration, it's important to remember the specifics: only hatchery Chinook salmon with an adipose fin clip that shows a healed scar is up for grabs, and all other salmon, including hatchery coho, must be released back into the waters, the shift in policy reflects a delicate balance between conservation efforts and recreational fishing interests, a continuous negotiation of give-and-take to ensure the river's ecological future while affording short-term pleasures to fishermen.
