Action: Closes all fishing.
Species affected: All species.
Effective dates: Oct. 3–Nov. 1, 2026.
Location: Snohomish River, from the mouth to the confluence of the Skykomish and Snoqualmie rivers.
Rules: Closed to fishing.
Reason for action: Salmon and game fish fishing are being closed due to concern with the status of the coho return.
Recreational coho fisheries in the marine areas around the Snohomish River have exceeded pre-season expectations. However, the terminal marine areas and freshwater areas of the lower Snohomish River have not experienced these signals. Although recent rains have moved some salmon in the system, low water conditions in the river could be affecting migratory behavior of returning coho.
There is also uncertainty and concern that the 2026 coho return is below pre-season expectation. Snohomish River coho were classified as "overfished" by the National Marine Fisheries Service in 2018 and subsequently re-classified as "rebuilt" just two years ago in 2024. Additionally, the 2025 return for coho was below the escapement goal and a second consecutive year of poor escapement could reverse the progress made by recent co-manager rebuilding efforts.
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 for current regulations. Download the Fish Washington® mobile app to stay up to date on the go.
Information contact: North Puget Sound Region, (425) 775-1311.