SW Washington fishing update

SW Washington- District steelheaders remain less than motivated although streams are just now coming into shape. The Cowlitz will remain a top option until spring chinook arrive but the North Fork Lewis and Kalama will also get some pressure. The early season return proved much better than last year's return.

Smelt dippers most often took limits during the last open season on Saturday. The final opener for the Cowlitz will be this Saturday and dipping will likely remain good. No license is required to catch these fish but you do have to adhere to a 10-pound limit, which is about ¼ of a 5 gallon bucket full.

Washington Tributary Recreational Smelt Fisheries 
Adopted a smelt season as follows: 
Season: Saturday February 7 and Saturday February 14, 2015  Open hours 6 AM to noon.  
Area:  Cowlitz River (bank only).  
Gear:  Dip net.  
Limit:  10 pounds per person.