release all steelhead on the Stillaguamish River and its North Fork tributary

December 2, 2015
Release all steelhead on Stillaguamish River
and North Fork; selective gear rules apply
Action: On the Stillaguamish River and the North Fork of the Stillaguamish River, anglers must release all steelhead; selective gear rules apply. 
Effective Date:  Dec. 7, 2015 through Jan. 31, 2016
Species affected: Steelhead.
Locations: 

• Stillaguamish River from Marine Drive upstream to the forks.
• North Fork Stillaguamish from the mouth to Swede Heaven Bridge.

Reason for action:  Ensure broodstock needs for early winter steelhead are met at the Whitehorse Hatchery. No early winter hatchery steelhead smolt have been released from the Whitehorse Hatchery since 2013. This year’s hatchery return of early winter steelhead is forecast to be 22 percent of average for recent years. 
 Additional Information: A steelhead retention fishery may reopen if hatchery broodstock needs are met. Retention of gamefish other than steelhead is allowed as described in the Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet.  

Information contacts:  Mill Creek Regional Office (425) 775-1311