07-15-2010, 11:10 AM
ENTERPRISE, Ore. - The Imnaha and Wallowa rivers in Northeast Oregon will remain open to hatchery spring chinook fishing until further notice, fishery managers announced today.
"So far this year, unseasonably high water has really limited fishing opportunities," said Jeff Yanke, ODFW district fish biologist in Enterprise. "This means we're able to extend the season so anglers and local communities can benefit from this strong salmon run."
With local runs complete at Bonneville Dam, ODFW biologists now estimate 8,000 adult spring chinook will return to both the Imnaha and Wallowa Rivers. Approximately 75 percent of the total return to each river will be marked hatchery fish available for harvest.
Current fishery regulations will apply through the extension period. Anglers are reminded to ask permission before entering private property to fish, and to pick up trash when leaving. In addition, anglers are asked to respect tribal members that may also be fishing for spring chinook using traditional methods.
"The duration of the fishery will depend on environmental conditions and angler success, both of which we will be monitoring carefully", said Yanke. "Our goal is to optimize the fishing opportunity while meeting our conservation responsibility".
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Contact:
Jeff Yanke (541) 426-3279<br />
Jessica Sall (503) 947-6023
"So far this year, unseasonably high water has really limited fishing opportunities," said Jeff Yanke, ODFW district fish biologist in Enterprise. "This means we're able to extend the season so anglers and local communities can benefit from this strong salmon run."
With local runs complete at Bonneville Dam, ODFW biologists now estimate 8,000 adult spring chinook will return to both the Imnaha and Wallowa Rivers. Approximately 75 percent of the total return to each river will be marked hatchery fish available for harvest.
Current fishery regulations will apply through the extension period. Anglers are reminded to ask permission before entering private property to fish, and to pick up trash when leaving. In addition, anglers are asked to respect tribal members that may also be fishing for spring chinook using traditional methods.
"The duration of the fishery will depend on environmental conditions and angler success, both of which we will be monitoring carefully", said Yanke. "Our goal is to optimize the fishing opportunity while meeting our conservation responsibility".
###
Contact:
Jeff Yanke (541) 426-3279<br />
Jessica Sall (503) 947-6023