Idaho Fish Report

Action: Reduces the adult salmon daily limit to 1 fish on days and in locations open for salmon retention in the Wind River.

Location and effective date: 

• From the mouth to 400 feet downstream of Shipherd Falls fish ladder:  Effective March 16, 2020 until further notice.

• From 100 feet above Shipherd Falls fish ladder to 800 yards below Carson National Fish Hatchery:  Effective May 1, 2020 until further notice. The 'Closed Waters' area around the Coffer Dam (400 feet below to 100 feet above) remains in effect.

Species affected: Salmon

Reason for action: An estimated 2,000 adult spring Chinook are forecast to return to the Wind River in 2020. Managers need to reduce the adult salmon daily limit to ensure that broodstock collection goals are achieved. Reducing the adult salmon daily limit will provide continued opportunity for anglers to harvest spring Chinook and help ensure future hatchery returns.

Additional information: The salmon and steelhead daily limit is 6 fish; including no more than 2 adults (i.e. salmon and steelhead), of which only 1 may be an adult salmon. In the area between the mouth and 400 feet below Shipherd Falls, release wild Chinook and wild coho. Anglers are reminded to check the Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for areas where and dates when the Wind River is open for salmon retention. WDFW will continue to monitor the spring Chinook return with co-managers and national fish hatchery staff to determine if further fishery modification is needed.

Information contact: Matt Gardner, district fish biologist, 360-906-6746.