By Mike Maltais
Effective Sept. 21 through the middle of October, fishermen on the Columbia River in pursuit of Chinook salmon between Wanapum Dam and Rock Island Dam can retain a daily limit of six fish, minimum 12 inches long, two of which may be adults.
“Anglers may retain any legal size Chinook regardless of whether the adipose fin has been clipped or not,” according to a press release issued by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
The reason cited by WDFW for the generous catch allowance is that “current estimates for the fall Chinook run far exceed the forecast. There are currently close to 20,000 adult fall Chinook returning to the Wanapum pool, which is four times the 10-year average.”
Anglers must have a current Washington fishing license as well as a Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement.
