Action: Opens hatchery Chinook salmon retention.  

Effective date: Sept. 18 through Sept. 27, 2021. Open Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays only. Closed to all species Tuesdays through Fridays.  

Species affected: Chinook salmon. 

Location: Whatcom Creek (Whatcom Co): From the mouth (a line from the flashing light at the southwest end of the Port of Bellingham North Terminal to the southernmost point of the dike surrounding the Georgia Pacific treatment pond) to the markers downstream of the footbridge that is downstream of Dupont Street. Catch record card code: (884) 

Rule: 

• Daily limit: 1 hatchery Chinook only. Minimum size 12”. Release all other salmon. 
• Night closure in effect. 
• Anti-snagging rule in effect. 
• Area is closed to all State recreational fishing Tuesdays through Fridays.  

Reason for action: Chinook released at the Whatcom Fish Hatchery to aid southern resident killer whales and support harvest programs have returned to Whatcom Creek in harvestable numbers.  

Additional information: All salmon not to be retained as part of the daily limit should be immediately released unharmed. 

This fishery is possible through the combined efforts of WDFW, Lummi Nation and the Nooksack Indian Tribe as well as Bellingham Technical College fisheries and aquaculture sciences staff and students. Closure days are so that all comanagers fishers and anglers may participate in this opportunity without gear conflicts. 

Information contact: Mill Creek Regional Office, 425-775-1311