Lower Columbia River spring Chinook season extended

Lower catch rates have resulted in the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife extending the spring Chinoook season in the Columbia River.

Extended dates are April 11-13 from Buoy 10 to Bonneville Dam, and now through April 26 from Bonneville Dam to The Dalles Dam.

“March and early April catch rates have been lower than expected which allows for additional fishing time prior to the run update,” the WDFW’s news release stated Thursday. “Fisheries are set within allowable catch levels for upriver spring Chinook and to minimize impacts to other stocks of concern.”

The daily salmon and steelhead limit is six with up to two adults retained of which no more than one may be an adult Chinook. Salmon minimum size is 12 inches.

Release all salmon other than hatchery Chinook. Also release wild steelhead.

Shad retention is permitted with no minimum size or daily limit.

From Beacon Rock upstream to the Tower Island power lines, fishing from a vessel is prohibited. Bank angling with hand-cast lines only.

Shad retention is permitted, no minimum size or daily limit.

Oregon and Washington fishery managers will hold a Joint State Hearing at 3 p.m. Tuesday via teleconference to consider additional spring Chinook recreational fishing opportunities.