2 Upper Columbia Salmon Derbies Cancelled

A pair of Upper Columbia summer salmon derbies have been cancelled due to much lower returns of sockeye than expected and to help keep fishing open for other anglers, but meanwhile WDFW is reported to be considering “bubble” Chinook openers thanks to a somewhat larger return of summer kings than expected.

Organizers of both the Wenatchee Salmon Derby and Brewster King Salmon Derby made the announcements about their sockeye-directed events in recent days.

“Due to in-season updates, regulatory changes, and low catch rates – interest in this year’s derby has significantly declined. After careful consideration, and in fairness to our participants, sponsors, and the fishing community, we’ve made the difficult decision to cancel this year’s derby,” posted the Northcentral Washington Chapter of the Coastal Conservation Association about the Wenatchee event, which had been slated for today and tomorrow.

Yesterday morning, organizers of the Brewster event also pulled the plug on their already abbreviated August 1-2 derby.

“We regret to announce the cancellation of this year’s Brewster Salmon Derby due to a significantly low return of Sockeye and King Salmon,” they posted. “In the interest of conservation and helping to prolong the fishing season for everyone, we believe stepping back from the derby this year is the responsible choice. Holding the event under current conditions would not provide a fair or enjoyable experience for participants, and we want to do our part to support the fishery’s long-term health. We appreciate your understanding and continued support.”

This year’s forecast of 350,000 Columbia sockeye looked promising enough to allow for four-fish daily limits at the start of the season on the upper river, but the run has not lived up to expectations. Early last week, overseers downgraded the forecast to 183,200 fish at the mouth, and then this week dropped it even further, to 172,400.

WDFW reacted by reducing the bag limit and open days in an effort to keep season open as long as possible within the available harvest share, which at the first runsize update was 12,800.

On the flip side, the Upper Columbia summer Chinook return is coming in larger than expected, so along with the recent Entiat River opener, WDFW is reported to now be considering opening some “bubble” fisheries in the region.

“So, keep your eyes peeled for the announcement,” tips Dave Graybill, the Northcentral Washington fishing blogger, on his FishingMagician.com social media account.

The spot to watch for official word is WDFW’s fishing rule change page.

And the Lake Wenatchee sockeye return is tracking towards an opener on the Chelan County destination. Just under 9,000 have been counted at Tumwater Dam through July 8, well ahead of the 10-year average for the date and which bodes well for meeting the escapement goal of 23,000.