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Fish and Game Approves a Limited Spring Salmon Season by Jennifer Gelband New West, May 21, 2006

'Tis the season to be jolly, if you are an Idaho angler: The Idaho Fish and Game Commission approved a limited spring Chinook salmon season. It opened over the weekend on the Upper Snake River in Hells Canyon, Lower Salmon River, the North and South Forks of the Clearwater River, and the Little Salmon River.

Since it is late and fish seem sparse, some speculated that there would be no salmon season this year, as was the case in 1999. But better late than never. F&G biologists just proposed Idaho salmon season to the commission when in the last two weeks more fish began to arrive in the lower Columbia River.

F&G says to expect a season similar to last year's, but notes that this year there is no salmon season on the Lower Snake or the Lochsa rivers. And though most salmon fishing spots are open, anglers might have a hard time. But don't blame the bait; before the season opened on Saturday, 4,778 Chinook had passed Lower Granite, the last obstacle for salmon entering Idaho in large numbers.

Also, water conditions aren't so hot with the rivers at dangerous levels and quick moving water and debris.

Throw your hands in the air, and wave 'em like you just don't care, but keep some things in mind when you crack open the tackle box:

• Fishing will be open Friday Ð Monday until July 31 (unless F&G determines it should close sooner).
• Upper Snake River, however, closes June 19 and the Lower Salmon River closes June 26.
• Fishing hours are half hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.
• Chinook anglers are allowed to keep one fish daily, have three in possession and keep ten for the season.
• The only hatchery salmon anglers can keep are those missing an adipose fin.
• Only barbless hooks that are no larger than five-eights of an inch from point to shank can be used.
• Taking or attempting to take salmon by snagging is unlawful.