The expected low wild winter steelhead returns have prompted state Fish and Wildlife to adjust the regulations in the Cascade, Sauk and Skagit rivers and Fisher Slough.

Anglers in those areas must now follow selective gear rules. They include the use of unscented artificial flies or lures with single-point barbless hooks and knotless nets. Anglers in the Skagit River only will still be able to use motorized vessels while fishing. Daily limit is two hatchery steelhead.

"We're expecting a down year for wild steelhead to the Skagit River basin," Bob Leland, a state Fish and Wildlife steelhead program manager said in a news release. "These emergency changes will allow anglers... Continued@URL...
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