Action: Opens the Lewis River to hatchery Chinook retention. All other permanent rules remain in effect.
Effective date: June 1–July 31, 2026.
Species affected: Chinook salmon.
Location: Lewis River from the mouth to the overhead powerlines below Merwin Dam. The mouth of the Lewis River is defined as a straight line from a fishing boundary marker or from the outermost upland at the north shore of the Lewis River mouth, southerly across the river to a fishing boundary marker near the south shore.
Salmon rules: Minimum size is 12 inches. Daily limit is six, including no more than one adult. Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook.
Reason for action: The spring Chinook salmon returns to the Lewis Hatchery are projected to meet broodstock collection goals for the Lewis Hatchery programs. Modifying fisheries will provide additional fishing opportunities while still meeting program and reintroduction goals.
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 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: Southwest Region, 360-696-6211.