The Columbia River is set to open for additional spring Chinook retention days, providing anglers with more opportunities to engage in this popular fishing activity. The extension applies to the mainstem Columbia River from Rocky Point/Tongue Point upstream to the Washington-Oregon border, following a joint state decision made on May 19, 2026.

Fishing Regulations and Locations

The extended fishing days will be in effect from May 22 to May 25. During this period, anglers can retain up to two adult salmon per day, with no more than one being an adult Chinook. All other salmon, except hatchery Chinook, must be released, as well as wild steelhead. The minimum size for salmon is set at 12 inches.

Specific locations and rules include:

• From Rocky Point/Tongue Point to the Interstate 5 Bridge, including Deep River, fishing is allowed immediately through May 21 with a daily limit of six salmon and steelhead, including no more than two steelhead.
• From the Interstate 5 Bridge upstream to Beacon Rock, and from Beacon Rock to Bonneville Dam, fishing is closed immediately through May 21, but will open from May 22 to May 25 with the same daily limits.
• From Bonneville Dam upstream to the Tower Island power lines, and further to The Dalles Dam, fishing is closed immediately through May 21, reopening with the same limits from May 22 to May 25.

Reason for Extension

The decision to extend the fishing days comes after the Technical Advisory Committee updated the spring Chinook return forecast to 111,900, compared to the preseason forecast of 147,300. Despite the lower forecast, current catch estimates indicate that there is enough room within the recreational harvest allocation to support additional retention opportunities.

Fishery managers emphasize that all other permanent rules apply, including year-round closure areas as listed in the 2025-26 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet. Anglers are encouraged to stay informed about regulation updates and emergency rules through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s (WDFW) resources.

Additional Information

Fishing from a vessel is prohibited upstream of Beacon Rock, with only bank angling with hand-cast lines allowed. Anglers must have a current Washington fishing license appropriate to the fishery. For the latest rule information, visit the WDFW website.

Original reporting: Clark County Today (Vancouver WA) — read the source article.