By Larry Dublanko

For the Grays Harbor News Group

Several rivers in our area are currently undergoing significant salmon fishing modifications. New measures have been put into place to what is already a shortened salmon inland season.

In the past, salmon fishing has continued until Jan. 31. However, this year the season for local rivers concludes Dec. 31. In addition, emergency measures are currently in place to protect the migrating salmon.

For starters, Willapa Bay and its tributaries closed to recreational salmon fishing in mid-November. The closure included Willapa Bay, Bear River, Forks Creek, Nasselle River, North River, Smith Creek, Willapa River and all forks of the Nemah River. This closure was due to lower than preseason predictions of salmon.

Furthermore, at about the same time frame, the adult portion of the salmon daily limits were reduced in coastal freshwater systems from the Hoh River south to the Grays Harbor Basin and Marine Area 2-2. This action reduced the adult salmon daily limit to no more than one adult fish. This emergency measure directly impacted Marine Area 2-2, Black River, Chehalis River, Copalis River, Elk River, Hoh River, Hoquiam River, Johns River, Moclips River, Newaukum River, Quinault River, Salmon River, Satsop River, Skookum Chuck River, Wishkah River and the Wynoochee River. This action was in response to low coho returns to tributaries along the coast from the Hoh River to Grays Harbor. The conservation measures are being taken to ensure that escapement goals are met.

Anglers should be aware that once the adult portion of the salmon daily limit has been retained, they may not continue to fish for salmon. More information along these lines or other ongoing fishing opportunities are available at https:/bit.ly2nkfplg.

The one river which has kept its original regulations has been the Humptulips River. However, the regulations for the Humptulips River have already called for a single adult salmon retention for the month of December where fishing is allowed on this stream. It has also been reduced to a hatchery coho fishery as well.

This now means the focus is shifting from salmon to steelhead in a big way. It would be prudent to review the rules and regulations surrounding this fishery. Each river and even the sections of rivers may have specific rules that anglers must be aware of.

Outdoors folk can also keep an eye on the Razor Clam Digs occurring for the month of December. Of course, the dates can be last minute due to the results of marine toxin testing. Under state law, diggers at open beaches can take 15 razor clams per day and are required to keep the first 15 they dig. Each digger’s clams must be kept in a separate container.

So, as we move towards the end of December there are multiple options for engaging the outdoors. Granted, there are changes to navigate. These may seem as a big deal, yet there are windows of opportunity available. Selecting one of those can lead to some fun adventures. These can certainly enhance the time around Christmas, especially if the weather cooperates.