Action: Closes sturgeon retention.
Effective date: Jan. 1, 2026, until further notice.
Species affected: White sturgeon.
Location: Columbia River from Bonneville Dam to The Dalles Dam and all adjacent Washington tributaries.
Reason for action: Due to high levels of catch and effort observed in recent years on the traditional Jan. 1 start date, the retention season is being delayed in Bonneville Pool. Staff will consider a fishery later during the winter that would project to stay within harvest guidelines. These populations are managed under sustainable harvest guidelines.
Additional information: Bonneville Pool remains open for catch-and-release sturgeon fishing on days closed to retention, as do many other stretches of the Columbia River. In addition, the John Day Pool between John Day Dam and McNary Dam will open to white sturgeon retention starting Jan. 1, following permanent rules.
Fishery managers encourage anglers to sign up for Fishing Rule Change email notifications and to check for emergency rules on the WDFW website before fishing. Refer to the 2025–2026 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for current regulations. Download the Fish Washington® mobile app to stay up to date on the go.
Information contact: Southwest Region, [email protected], 360-696-6211.