Action: Steelhead anglers on these three Cowlitz County streams will be able to fish for hatchery steelhead.

Effective date: March 16, 2016 through April 15, 2016

Species affected: Hatchery steelhead

Locations:

* Mill Creek.

* Germany Creek, including all tributaries.

*Abernathy Creek from the mouth (Hwy. 4 Bridge) upstream to posted markers 500 feet below Abernathy Fish Technology Center

Reason for action: Hatchery winter steelhead smolts are released into Abernathy Creek as part of a hatchery research program conducted by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Returning hatchery adults have similar run timing to wild steelhead and may stray to neighboring Mill and Germany creeks. The regulation extends the fishing season for hatchery steelhead in order to support volunteer angling needed for a research study on hatchery strays in Mill, Abernathy, and Germany creeks.

Selective gear rules will be in effect to aid in the release of any wild juvenile or wild adult salmonids that are inadvertently encountered.

Other information: The hatchery steelhead limit will be 3 fish. All hatchery steelhead must be retained – catch-and-release is not allowed. A Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement is required.

Information contact: (360) 696-6211. For latest information press *1010.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Check the WDFW Fishing hotline for the latest rule information at (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360)796-3215 or toll free 1-866-880-5431.