FISHING Starting Saturday, Sept. 20, a 1.25-mile section of the lower Yakima River in Prosser will be closed to fishing from any floating device, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says.

The river from the Grant Ave. Bridge in Prosser downstream approximately 1.25 miles to the downstream side of the westbound Interstate 82 Bridge will be closed until Oct. 22.

Reason for action:  This section of the Yakima River is adjacent to the Yakama Nation’s Prosser Fish Hatchery where over 2 million fall chinook smolts are released annually.  Returning adult salmon congregate in this terminal area and attract many anglers during the Yakima River fall salmon season that is open through October 22. During the peak fishing period (late Sept. through Oct. 22), as many as 75 bank anglers may be fishing at one time from the north (left) and south (right) shoreline. The river at this location is narrow (50 – 100 feet wide) and will not accommodate bank anglers casting from shore and boat anglers who anchor in mid-channel. Limiting fishing in this reach to bank angling prevents conflicts between boat and bank anglers.

Other information:

• Daily limit of six salmon (hatchery or wild); up to two adults.  Minimum size - 12 inches.
• Night Closure is in effect. Barbless hooks are required.
• Fishing for steelhead remains closed.  All steelhead (rainbow trout greater than 20” in total length) must be immediately released unharmed and cannot be removed from the water prior to release.
• A Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement is required to participate in this fishery.