Action: Redefines the 20 fathom depth restriction line for bottomfish as follows:
48°25.00’N. lat., 124°44.06’W. long. (new coordinate)
48°25.00’N. lat., 120°45.22’W. long. (new coordinate)
48°23.90’N. lat., 124°44.20’W. long. (old coordinate)
48°23.60’N. lat., 124°44.90’W. long.
48°18.60’N. lat., 124°43.60’W. long.
48°18.60’N. lat., 124°48.20’W. long.
48°10.00’N. lat., 124°48.80’W. long.
48°02.40’N. lat., 124°49.30’W. long.
47°37.60’N. lat., 124°34.30’W. long.
47°31.70’N. lat., 124°32.40’W. long.
Effective dates: June 1 – July 31, 2026
Species affected: Bottomfish
Location: Marine Areas 3 and 4 west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line.
Rule: It is unlawful to fish for or possess bottomfish seaward of a line approximating the 20-fathom depth contour as defined by the coordinates above, from June 1 – July 31 except, on days and times open to halibut fishing it is permissible to retain lingcod, sablefish, bocaccio, silvergray rockfish, canary rockfish, widow rockfish, yellowtail rockfish, and Pacific cod. The retention of yellowtail rockfish and widow rockfish is permitted seaward of the line approximating 20 fathoms July 1 – 31.
Reason for action: Duntze and Duncan Rocks are in waters shallower than 20 fathoms but are seaward of the existing 20 fathom line. This action aligns rules with angler expectations and assists in prosecuting an orderly fishery.
Additional information: Refer to WDFW's North Coast halibut and bottomfish webpage for updated depth restriction and boundaries.
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 pamphlet for current regulations. Download the Fish Washington® mobile app to stay up to date on the go.
Information contact: Fish Program, 360-902-2700