Anglers in Washington can look forward to more fishing opportunities as the salmon season in Marine Area 11 expands its schedule to seven days a week through the end of June. The decision, effective June 21, allows for the daily retention of two hatchery Chinook, meeting the required minimum size of 22 inches. This comes after catch estimates indicated that the fishery has utilized just 30% of the harvest quota and remained within the limits for unmarked and sublegal encounters.

According to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), the extension is a result of careful review of current catch and encounters which support additional fishing days without surpassing the fishery guidelines. However, rules remain in place to protect chum and wild Chinook, which must be released if caught. It should be noted, fishing enthusiasts must observe the closure of Commencement Bay for salmon retention and fishing.

This modification is not without its boundaries, however. The WDFW warns that season adjustments or closures will be enforced if catch or encounters approach allowable limits. The announcement also highlighted that from July 1-17, Marine Area 11 will be temporally closed to salmon fishing in anticipation of the new 2024/2025 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet.

Fishers planning to take advantage of the extended season are reminded to ensure they possess a valid Washington fishing license appropriate for salmon. Details on definitions, regulations, and potential changes to fishing rules are available in the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet, and updates can be obtained by contacting the WDFW Fishing hotline. For anglers, these precautionary measures are necessary to maintain sustainable fishing practices, and, adhere to regulatory compliances.