Action: Opens the all-depth halibut fishery in Marine Area 1 (Ilwaco/Chinook) and Marine Area 2 (Westport) on Friday, Sept. 4. In addition, opens Marine Area 1 (Ilwaco/Chinook) on Friday, Sept. 11. These openings are in addition to days already proposed to be open.

Effective date: Sept. 4, 2020.

Species affected: Pacific Halibut.

Location: Marine Areas 1 and 2 .

Reason for action:  Prior to the start of the recreational halibut season, additional days were identified that could be opened if recreational halibut catch was tracking slower than expected in Marine Areas 1 (Ilwaco/Chinook) and 2 (Westport). Those days were Aug. 28, Sept. 4, and Sept. 11. This change will open both areas on Sept. 4 to give recreational anglers time to plan for the extra fishing day. In addition, Marine Area 1, where catch is tracking slower than in Marine Area 2, will also open on Friday, Sept. 11. There is enough quota remaining in these two subareas (Marine Areas 1 and 2) to add these additional fishing days.

Information contact: Heather Hall, Intergovernmental Policy Coordinator, 360-902-2487.