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Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
Dec. 17, 2025 |
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Nisqually River opens for recreational fishing
Action: Opens salmon retention and game fish catch-and-release fishing.
Effective date: Dec. 24, 2025–Jan. 31, 2026.
Species affected: All species.
Location: Nisqually River (Pierce and Thurston counties) from the mouth to Clear Creek (latitude 47.034918, longitude -122.676735).
Rules:
- All species:
- Open Wednesdays–Saturdays, closed Sundays–Tuesdays.
- Night closure and anti-snagging rule in effect. Single-point barbless hooks required.
- Salmon: Daily limit six, including no more than two adults; minimum size 12 inches. Release wild Chinook and wild coho.
- Game fish: Catch and release.
Reason for action: Projections based on recent stream surveys show that chum salmon are returning at abundance sufficient to support fishery openings for both WDFW and the Nisqually Indian Tribe while meeting the escapement goal for the basin.
Additional information: Fishery managers encourage anglers to sign up for Fishing Rule Change email notifications and to check for emergency rules on the WDFW website before fishing. Refer to the 2025–26 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet for current regulations. Download the Fish Washington® mobile app to stay up to date on the go.
Information contact: Gabe Madel, 360-902-2670, gabriel.madel@dfw.wa.gov, or Riley Freeman, 360-810-0724, riley.freeman@dfw.wa.gov.
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Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license, appropriate to the fishery. Check the Washington Sport Fishing Rules for details on definitions and regulations. Fishing rules are subject to change. Visit wdfw.wa.gov to find a list of mobile, web, print, or customer service phone options for the latest rule information.
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