Upper Columbia River Fisheries

The Upper Columbia River salmon and steelhead tributary fisheries are managed collaboratively by the state of Washington and tribal fishery managers to limit total impacts on ESA-listed species. The fishery frameworks in place for Upper Columbia River tributary fisheries were developed in collaboration with all fishery managers in the Upper Columbia River. The effects of these fisheries on listed species are reported to NMFS annually.  

In considering fishery proposals, NOAA Fisheries evaluates tribal plans under the Tribal 4(d) Rule and state plans under either limit 4 of the salmon and steelhead 4(d) Rule, or Section 10 of the ESA. We also consider impacts of fishery plans on any other non-target ESA-listed species under NMFS jurisdiction. Prior to making a determination or issuing a permit, we provide the plans or evaluations for public review and comment.

We are also required to evaluate these fishery proposals under NEPA to determine the effects of these actions on the human environment.

For more information, please contact Charlene Hurst at (503) 230-5409, charlene.n.hurst@noaa.gov.