PORT ANGELES — The state is temporarily shutting down salmon fishing just west of Port Angeles.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife says a full closure will go into effect August 3rd for areas in the Strait of Juan de Fuca in Marine Area 6, which is west of Port Angeles. Officials say they expect to lift the ban August 15th.
Marine Area 6 waters west of a true north/south line through the #2 Buoy immediately east of Ediz Hook, excluding Port Angeles Harbor and Freshwater Bay areas.
WDFW officials say catch rates have been high to date in the area and anglers had reached 88% of the seasonal quota by July 24. Officials say the temporary total closure is necessary to ensure there are enough Chinook impacts available for coho opportunities later in the summer.