Icicle Opening For Springers May 16

THE FOLLOWING IS A RULE-CHANGE NOTICE FROM THE WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE

Action: Opens the Icicle River to retention of hatchery spring Chinook.

Effective date: One hour before official sunrise on Monday, May 16 to one hour after official sunset on Thursday, June 30, 2022.

Species affected: Chinook salmon.

Location: Icicle River (Chelan Co.)

1.) From the closure signs located 800 feet upstream of the mouth of the river to 500 feet downstream from the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery Barrier Dam, and;

2.) From the shoreline markers where Cyo Road intersects the Icicle River at the Sleeping Lady Resort to the Icicle Peshastin Irrigation Footbridge (approximately 750 feet upstream from the Snow Lakes trailhead parking area).

Rules:

1.) Daily limit 2 hatchery Chinook (adult or jack). Minimum size is 12”.

2.) Mandatory retention of hatchery Chinook. Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook.

3.) Night closure is in effect and motorized vessels are not allowed on the Icicle River (Chelan County ordinance 7.20.190 motorboat restrictions).

4.) Two-pole endorsement not allowed in this fishery.

Reason for action: A large return of spring Chinook is forecasted to return to the Icicle River this spring. Fish in excess of broodstock needs at Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery will be available for sport angler harvest.

Additional information: This fishery will be monitored closely and could potentially close at any time if the non-treaty harvest share is met or if additional broodstock are needed. Anglers are advised to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website (https://fortress.wa.gov/dfw/erules/efishrules/) for updates.