KLICKITAT, Wash. – Salmon fishing in the Klickitat River is facing significant restrictions for the upcoming season as fishery managers respond to a troubling forecast for the 2025 spring Chinook return. With the estimated return of adult spring Chinook projected to be 1,201, one of the lowest figures since 2009, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is taking action to address the situation.
To mitigate the potential impact on the salmon population, the daily limit for adult salmon in the lower Klickitat River has been reduced to one hatchery fish. Starting May 22, the salmon season in the lower river will be closed, while the opening of the salmon season in the upper river has been postponed until further notice to protect the population.
From April 1 through May 21, 2025, anglers fishing from the mouth of the river at the BNSF Railroad Bridge to Fisher Hill Bridge are allowed a daily limit of two salmon and hatchery steelhead, with only one adult salmon permitted. The catch-and-release policy for wild Chinook remains in effect, with a minimum size requirement of 12 inches. Fishing is restricted to Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays to ensure conservation efforts are upheld.
However, certain sections of the river will be off-limits to salmon fishing as part of the new regulations. As of May 24, 2025, the area from 400 feet upstream of the #5 fishway to the boundary markers below the Klickitat Salmon Hatchery will be closed until further notice. These closures are crucial to maintaining the health and sustainability of the salmon population in the river.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is closely monitoring the situation and will continue to make adjustments to the fishing regulations as needed to protect the salmon population. Anglers are encouraged to stay informed of any updates to the rules and regulations governing fishing in the Klickitat River to ensure compliance and support conservation efforts for this valuable natural resource.
In the face of a challenging forecast for the 2025 spring Chinook return, the restrictions imposed by fishery managers aim to strike a balance between recreational fishing opportunities and the long-term sustainability of the salmon population in the Klickitat River. By working together to protect and preserve this vital ecosystem, we can help ensure a brighter future for salmon fishing in the region.