The preliminary catch estimate for the 1997 sport halibut fishery in southwest Washington waters from the Queets River (latitude 47° 31’42"N.) south to Leadbetter Point (46° 38"10"N.) indicates the 20,483 pound catch limit will be reached on May 20. Therefore, the sport halibut fishery in this area will close at 11:59 p.m. on May 20. All landings of sport caught halibut will be prohibited in this area for the remainder of the year.

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