Here is the proposal. It would only be applied in waters where there is a non-buoyant rule currently in place. It is not applicable to all waters in the state.

Here is the link to the proposal website:


http://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/regs/rule_proposals/sportfishing_rule_proposals_2009-10.pdf


#24. Anti-Snagging Rule
Proposal: This proposal would replace the current non-buoyant lure restriction with a new anti-snagging
rule. The anti-snagging rule requires the use of single hooks on all gear (floating or sinking, with or without
bait), and requires that all salmon and steelhead be hooked in the mouth in areas where it is in effect.
Other game fish may be hooked in the mouth or on the head.
Explanation: The non-buoyant lure rule is, by far, the rule that generates the most questions to our
customer service staff as well as to our enforcement officers. It is complicated, with different requirements
for lures that sink or float. The proposed anti-snagging rule would apply to all species, but would only be
used in areas where the non-buoyant lure rule is currently in place (see list and map below), with one
exception. In the mainstem Columbia River, the new rule is proposed to be in effect from Bonneville Dam
to McNary Dam. While in all other areas the rule would apply to all species fished for, in this part of the
mainstem Columbia River it would only apply to anglers fishing for salmon and steelhead. This will address
the major concern we heard from anglers to our proposal last year by allowing warmwater anglers to
continue to use gear with multiple hooks in this area, while still addressing the snagging problem for
steelhead and salmon. It would also be similar to the rule already in effect in Oregon.