The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has extended a statewide fishing ban and put the spring turkey season on hold.
Monday’s order will extend through at least May 4. The spring turkey season was scheduled to open April 15 and close May 31. If hunting is reopened May 4, hunters will be able to finish the season.
“Local public health authorities have relayed to us with their concerns regarding the risk that hunting, fishing and recreational travel poses to their communities right now,” said WDFW Director Kelly Susewind in a news release. “With the support of the Governor’s office we’re asking people to put their recreation plans on pause while we work together to get this situation under control.”
The extensions also impact spring black bear hunting, which was set to open April 15 as well.