WDFW: Skagit River opens for hatchery spring Chinook seasons
Action: Opens portions of the Skagit River to fishing for hatchery spring Chinook.
Effective date: Immediately, through July 15, 2024.
Species affected: Chinook salmon
Locations, rules and specific dates:
Skagit River (Skagit County) from the Highway 536 bridge (Memorial Highway Bridge) in Mount Vernon to Gilligan Creek:
- Immediately through May 31, 2024:
- Open for salmon fishing only. All other species are closed.
- Daily limit two (2) hatchery Chinook. 12-inch minimum size. Release all other species.
- Night closure.
- Anglers may fish with two poles with Two-Pole Endorsement.
Skagit River (Skagit County) from Highway 530 Bridge at Rockport to Cascade River Road (Marblemount Bridge):
- May 29 through July 15, 2024:
- Daily limit four (4) hatchery Chinook including no more than two (2) adults. 12-inch minimum size. Release all other salmon.
- Night closure and anti-snagging rule in effect.
- Gamefish seasons do not open until June 1 (see rules pamphlet for daily limits and size restrictions).
Reason for action: Skagit River salmon fisheries can be reopened consistent with preseason fishing plans. Federal Endangered Species Act consultations on 2024-25 Puget Sound salmon fisheries have been completed (NMFS Consultation #WCRO-2024-00942), and a Biological Opinion and Incidental Take Statement have been issued.
Additional information: Fishing for other species in the lower section will remain closed per the current Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet. These fisheries will be actively monitored by WDFW. Anglers are asked to cooperate with creel personnel collecting catch information. Monitoring and evaluation of fisheries is an important part of ensuring conservation goals for salmon are met.
Information contact: Team Mill Creek, 425-775-1311.
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