Lake Wenatchee opens for Sockeye fishing as surplus exceeds spawning goals

OLYMPIA - The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced that Lake Wenatchee will open for sockeye salmon retention starting July 22, 2024, due to projected surplus fish counts exceeding spawning goals.

The rule change, which takes effect one hour before sunrise on July 22 and lasts until one hour after sunset on Aug. 31, sets a daily limit of four sockeye per angler with a minimum size of 12 inches. All bull trout, steelhead, and Chinook salmon must be released unharmed.

Selective gear rules, including the use of up to three single barbless hooks per line and knotless nets, will be in effect. The use of bait or scent is prohibited. Two-pole fishing is permitted for anglers with a valid endorsement. A night closure will also be enforced.

WDFW officials said the decision was based on current sockeye passage analysis at Tumwater Dam and mainstem Columbia River Dams, which projected a harvestable surplus well above the natural spawning escapement goal of 23,000 fish.

During the sockeye fishery, Lake Wenatchee State Park will expand its hours from 4 a.m. until dusk, with overnight access limited to registered campers only. Anglers are advised to check the park's alerts for more information.

The WDFW cautioned that the fishery will be closely monitored and may close on short notice depending on angler participation and harvest rates. Anglers should check the department's emergency rules webpage regularly for updates.