State reopens halibut fishing for Neah Bay, LaPush

Published 2:22 pm Friday, March 21, 2014

While areas of southwest Washington state are seeing fishing closures, marine areas near Neah Bay and LaPush are reopened for halibut fishing.

State officials from the Washington Fish and Wildlife Department said last week halibut fishing in marine areas 3 and 4 – covering the northwest corner of the Olympic Peninsula – is opening for two more days: Thursday, June 3 and Saturday, June 5.

State officials also closed Marine area 2, waters south of the mouth of the Queets River and off the coast of Ocean Shores, Aberdeen, Grays Harbor and Westport.

The Marine area 2 recreational halibut fishery is projected to have taken the Pacific halibut quota set aside for the primary season.

Anglers are encouraged to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Web site or hotline (360-902-2500) for information regarding re-openings.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license. Check the state’s "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet for details on fishing seasons and regulations.

Regulations are subject to change.