Action: Rescinds requirement for bait or lure to be suspended below a float, except when trolling from a floating device, beginning Oct. 15.
Effective dates: Oct. 15–31, 2026
Species affected: All species.
Location: Naselle River, from the confluence of the South Fork upstream to the Highway 4 bridge.
Reason for action: The end date for this restriction was inadvertently changed during recent steelhead and trout rule making.
The suspended gear rule is intended to deter anglers from snagging early returning hatchery Chinook, as these fish are particularly vulnerable during low water in the early season. By late October, the hatchery run is dwindling and the water is higher, making snagging much less of an issue. Additionally, leaving the rule in place would hinder other fisheries, particularly coho.
Additional information: 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 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.