Sturgeon fishing in the Columbia River is a cherished pastime for many anglers, but it comes with its own set of rules and regulations. As we look ahead to 2024, let’s explore the latest guidelines for the Bonneville Pool and The Dalles Pool. These regulations are put in place to ensure the sustainability of the sturgeon population and create a fair and enjoyable fishing experience for everyone.
Bonneville Pool Regulations:
The Bonneville Pool offers anglers the opportunity to catch white sturgeon. Here are the key regulations for this pool in 2024: 1. Season: You can fish in the Bonneville Pool on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays from January 1 to February 7, 2024. That’s a total of 17 days to plan your fishing trips. 2. Area: Your fishing ground encompasses the mainstem Columbia River from Bonneville Dam to The Dalles Dam, as well as all adjacent tributaries. 3. Allowable Catch: Anglers are allowed to catch up to 675 white sturgeon within the specified timeframe. 4. Legal Size: Sturgeon must measure at least 38 inches in fork length, with a maximum limit of 54 inches. Fork length is measured in a straight line from the tip of the nose to the fork in the caudal fin (tail). 5. Bag Limit: Anglers can keep one fish daily, with a maximum of two fish annually.
The Dalles Pool Regulations:
The Dalles Pool, similar regulations are in place with some variations. Here’s what you need to know: 1. Season: The season runs from January 1 to January 29, 2024, and fishing is allowed on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays for a total of 13 days. 2. Area: This pool covers the mainstem Columbia River from The Dalles Dam to John Day Dam, as well as the adjacent tributaries. 3. Allowable Catch: Anglers can catch up to 190 white sturgeon within the specified timeframe. 4. Legal Size: Sturgeon in The Dalles Pool must measure at least 43 inches in fork length and have a maximum limit of 54 inches. 5. Bag Limit: Just like in the Bonneville Pool, the bag limit is one fish daily, with a maximum of two fish annually.
Catch-and-Release Sturgeon Fishing:
For those who prefer catch-and-release sturgeon angling, this remains open year-round. However, it’s essential to note that angling for sturgeon is prohibited from May 1 through August 31 within designated sanctuary areas in each of the dam tailraces. The daily and annual bag limits apply to all sturgeon fisheries statewide. Conclusion: Sturgeon fishing in the Columbia River offers an exciting and rewarding experience for anglers. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the regulations in place to protect the sturgeon population and ensure a sustainable future for this pastime. By following the guidelines for the Bonneville Pool and The Dalles Pool in 2024, you can enjoy a fantastic fishing season while contributing to the conservation efforts. Remember to check for any regulation updates before you head out, as rules can change quickly. Happy fishing!