I was wondering how long it would take for this to happen!

Satsop River temporarily closes to fishing through Sept. 30

Action: Temporary closure on the Satsop River.
Effective date: Sept. 16–30, 2026.
Species affected: Game fish.

Locations: Satsop River (Grays Harbor County) from the mouth to the Bingham Creek Hatchery dam.
Rules: Closed to fishing.

Reason for action: Disorderly fishing behavior has been observed on the Satsop River during enforcement patrols, with anglers observed targeting salmon before the planned Oct. 1 salmon season opener. Low river flows in the basin are also affecting salmon migration, making fish more vulnerable than normal to angling activity.

While pre-season planning accounted for some incidental mortality of Chinook during the September gamefish season, it did not account for the levels of incidental mortality experienced when anglers are targeting salmon or current low river flows. Because of these conditions, natural origin Chinook require additional conservation measures.

The closure is intended to prevent further impacts to Chinook in September while preserving impacts for the coho-directed fishery scheduled to begin in October.
Additional Information: This closure includes the section from 400 feet below Bingham Creek Hatchery dam to the dam Catch Record Code (CRC) 329A.

Fishery managers encourage anglers to sign up for Fishing Rule Change email notifications and to check for emergency rules on the WDFW website before fishing. Refer to the Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for current regulations. Download the Fish Washington® mobile app to stay up to date on the go.

Information contact: Coastal Region, 360-249-4628