Lake Wenatchee Opening For Sockeye July 22

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

Action: Opens sockeye retention.

Effective dates: One hour before official sunrise July 22, to one hour after official sunset Aug. 31, 2024.

Species affected: Sockeye salmon.

Location: Lake Wenatchee (Chelan County). Catch record card area code 670.

Rules:

• Daily limit 4 sockeye. Minimum size 12 inches. Release all bull trout, steelhead, and Chinook salmon unharmed and without removing the fish from the water.
• Selective gear rules are in effect (up to three single barbless hooks per line, no bait or scent allowed, knotless nets required).
• Two-pole fishing is allowed with a valid two-pole endorsement.
• Night closure in effect.

Reason for action: Based on current sockeye passage analysis at Tumwater Dam and mainstem Columbia River Dams, WDFW projects a surplus of harvestable sockeye destined for Lake Wenatchee, well above the natural spawning escapement goal of 23,000 fish.  

Additional information: During the sockeye fishery, Lake Wenatchee State Park will expand park hours from 4 a.m. until dusk. Only registered campers are allowed in the park between dusk and 4 a.m. during the sockeye fishery. Please review the Lake Wenatchee State Park alerts for more information.

This fishery will be monitored closely and may close on short notice depending upon angler participation and harvest rates. Anglers are advised to check WDFW’s emergency rules webpage routinely for updates.