Puget Sound re-opens to salmon fishing after impasse

SEATTLE – State fish managers have reopened Puget Sound marine areas, rivers and lakes that were previously closed because of an impasse between tribal and state officials.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife said Friday that it has received federal approval for its salmon fishing season and Puget Sound waters will reopen immediately.

The agency closed recreational and nontribal commercial salmon fishing in Puget Sound on May 1, after the state and tribes failed to reach an agreement over annual catch limits.

For the first time in decades, the tribes and the state sought separate federal approval for their salmon seasons. Federal approval is needed to ensure that the fishing season doesn’t harm endangered salmon.

WDFW’s salmon lead John Long said he knows anglers have been frustrated by the late start but Friday’s opening put the year’s salmon fisheries back on track.

Anglers are urged to check fishing regulations.