Washington North Coast Sport Halibut Fishery to be Open July 1 and July 4

Preliminary estimates through June 18 for the Washington North Coast sport halibut fishery (Sekiu River to the Queets River) indicate that 11,316 pounds remain to be harvested. This fishery will re-open as scheduled on July 1, 2000. Pacific halibut sport fishing will also be permitted on July 4. No Pacific halibut sport fishing is permitted in this area on July 2 and 3. The Washington North Coast sport halibut fishery will close at 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, July 4, 2000. An announcement will be made following the July 4 closure if enough quota remains for at least a full day of fishing. Sport fishing for Pacific halibut remains open in Canadian waters. Anglers are advised to check with the Department of Fisheries and Oceans Canada for proper licensing.