OLYMPIA — Proposals for changes in sport-fishing rules in the Columbia River, its tributaries and lakes within the drainage will be accepted through May 30 by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.
State managers will consider proposals for any species except salmon.
A rule change can be proposed online at wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/rule_proposals. Forms may be obtained by calling 360-902-2700.
This year’s focus on a specific geographical area marks a departure from the agency’s practice of statewide changes.
Craig Burley, fish program manager, said the department will focus on proposals for freshwater fisheries in Puget Sound and coastal areas in 2015 and saltwater areas in 2016.
The state Fish and Wildlife Commission plans a public hearing on the proposed changes in November and plans to adopt the rules at a meeting in December.
