Action: Opens retention of hatchery Chinook salmon and steelhead.

Species affected: Chinook salmon and steelhead; all species (see below, bank fishing only).

Location: Lewis River (Clark/Cowlitz County).  

Effective dates, specific locations, and rules:

• Lewis River from the mouth to Johnson Creek: May 25 through July 31, 2024.

Salmon: Minimum size is 12 inches. Daily limit is six (6) hatchery Chinook including no more than one (1) adult. Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook.

• Lewis River from Johnson Creek to Colvin Creek: May 25 through May 31, 2024.

All species: Bank angling only. No fishing from a floating device. Anti-snagging rule and night closure in effect.

Hatchery steelhead: Minimum size is 20 inches. Daily limit is three (3).

Salmon: Minimum size is 12 inches. Daily limit is six (6) hatchery Chinook including no more than one (1) adult. Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook.

• Lewis River from Johnson Creek to Colvin Creek: June 1 through July 31, 2024.

Salmon: Minimum size is 12 inches. Daily limit is six (6) hatchery Chinook including no more than one (1) adult. Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook.

Reason for action: Spring Chinook salmon returns to the Lewis Hatchery are projected to meet broodstock collection goals for the Lewis Hatchery programs. Modifying fisheries will provide additional fishing opportunities while still meeting program and reintroduction goals.

Additional information: Under permanent rules, the Lewis River is currently open for hatchery steelhead retention from the mouth up to Johnson Creek. All other permanent rules published in the Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet remain in effect.  

Information contact:  Josua Holowatz, District Fish Biologist, 360-906-6771.