Catch more hatchery steelhead on Snake tributaries starting Feb. 1

Fishing regulations for steelhead on some Mid-Columbia rivers have been eased to clear out excess hatchery fish.

The daily limit for hatchery steelhead in the Walla Walla and Touchet rivers has been increased from two to three starting Thursday, the Washington state Department of Fish and Wildlife announced.

The limit increase on the Walla Walla River applies from the mouth of the river to the Oregon state line. The Touchet River increase applied from the mouth of the river to the confluence of the North and South Fork Touchet rivers and all its tributaries.

On the Tucannnon River downstream of the Tucannon Hatchery Bridge, the season for game fish, including steelhead, has been extended from the previous closing date of Feb. 28 to April 15.

The limit of hatchery steelhead also has been increased from two to three, and hatchery steelhead must be retained. Barbless hooks are required, with all other species released.

Tucannon rule changes take effect Thursday.

This story was originally published January 31, 2018 at 9:26 AM with the headline "Catch more hatchery steelhead on Snake tributaries starting Feb. 1."