OLYMPIA – The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is now accepting public comments on proposed fishing rule changes for game fish in the Washington portions of the Snake and Columbia rivers. The proposed amendments will allow two-pole fishing for all game fish including walleye, bass, channel catfish, and northern pikeminnow year-round.
In July, WDFW received a petition to allow two-pole fishing for game fish in the Snake River. WDFW approved the petition with modifications that included the Columbia River from the Washington/Oregon border upstream to Chief Joseph Dam. More information about the proposed rule change is available on the WDFW website. The full list of locations is available in the proposed rule.
The public comment period for this rule runs through Dec. 7, 2026. The public may submit comments about the rulemaking online, via email, or by telephone (1-855-925-2801, project code 11057).
WDFW will also host a virtual public hearing via Zoom from 6–8 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 7, to present information about the proposed rule change and hear feedback and suggestions. Pre-registration is required.
All members of the public are invited to share their perspectives and participate in WDFW public feedback opportunities regardless of race, color, sex, age, national origin, language proficiency, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity and/or expression, status as a veteran, or basis of disability.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.