Idaho Fish Report

Action: Restores the permanent salmon rules for the lower Klickitat River described in the 2023-2024 Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet. Maintains salmon closure above Lyle Falls.

Effective date: July 6 through July 31, 2023.

Species affected: Salmon.

Locations and rules:

• Klickitat River from the mouth to Fisher Hill Bridge. Salmon minimum size is 12 inches. Daily limit is six, and up to two adults may be retained. Release wild Chinook.
• Klickitat River from 400 feet upstream of #5 Fishway to boundary markers below Klickitat Salmon Hatchery remains closed for salmon.

Reason for action: The Klickitat River salmon season was closed earlier this year due to low returns of spring Chinook to the Klickitat Salmon Hatchery. Fishery co-managers have indicated most of the spring Chinook return has passed above Lyle Falls into the upper river, making continued closure of the hatchery Chinook fishery in the lower river unnecessary.

Additional information: Retention of hatchery spring Chinook remains closed above Fisher Hill Bridge to allow hatchery Chinook migrating through this area to return to Klickitat Salmon Hatchery for broodstock needs. Salmon retention in the upper river will reopen under permanent rule on Aug. 1, 2023. Anglers are reminded to check the 2023-2024 Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for additional information.

Information contact: Matt Gardner, District Fish Biologist, 360-906-6746.