Upper Skagit River to open for hatchery spring Chinook
Action: Opens a portion of the Skagit River to fishing for hatchery spring Chinook.
Effective dates: May 16–July 15, 2026
Species affected: Chinook salmon.
Location: Skagit River from Hwy. 530 Bridge at Rockport to Cascade River Rd. (Marblemount Bridge). Catch Record Code (CRC) (830).
Rules:
- Minimum size 12 inches. Daily limit four including no more than two adults. Release all other salmon other than hatchery Chinook.
- Night closure and anti-snagging rule in effect.
Reason for action: Harvestable numbers of hatchery spring Chinook are forecast to return to Marblemount Hatchery.
Additional information: Game fish seasons remain closed until June 1. Please attempt to avoid spawning steelhead. This area is opening to hatchery spring Chinook earlier than past seasons and there will be actively spawning steelhead in the open area.
Anglers are asked to cooperate with creel personnel collecting catch information. Monitoring and evaluation of fisheries is an important part of ensuring we are meeting our conservation goals for salmon.
Fishery managers encourage anglers to sign up for Fishing Rule Change email notifications and to check for emergency rules on the WDFW website before fishing. Refer to the 2025–2026 Washington Sport Fishing Rules for current regulations. Download the Fish Washington® mobile app to stay up to date on the go.
Information contact: North Puget Sound Region, TeamMillCreek@dfw.wa.gov, 425-775-1311.
Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the Washington Sport Fishing Rules for details on definitions and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Visit wdfw.wa.gov to find a list of mobile, web, print, or customer service phone options for the latest rule information.
Request this information in an alternative format or language at wdfw.wa.gov/accessibility/requests-accommodation, 833-885-1012, TTY (711), or CivilRightsTeam@dfw.wa.gov.