An emergency closure has been placed on fishing in the Hoh River and its tributaries/NPS

Concerns over the numbers of Hoh River Chinook salmon has prompted an emergency fishing closure of the Hoh River, South Fork Hoh River, and all tributaries, as well as the mouth of the Hoh River at Olympic National Park in Washington state.

The Hoh River mouth, Hoh River, South Fork Hoh River, and their tributaries will be closed to recreational fishing from May 19 through August 31.  

This emergency closure is designed to maximize the protection of wild spring/summer Chinook salmon in Olympic National Park. The state and tribal forecast for spring/summer Chinook is expected to be below the "escapement" floor of 900 adults. "Escapement" refers to the number of Chinook that escape commercial and recreational fisheries and reach spawning grounds.

Hoh River spring/summer Chinook have failed to meet the escapement floor in seven of the last eight years, according to park officials. Spawning for this unique wild population primarily occurs in Olympic National Park.

'œThe National Park Service seeks to provide diverse recreational fishing opportunities while ensuring the preservation and restoration of native fish,' said Superintendent Sarah Creachbaum. 'œHowever, with the run size at low numbers it is critical to provide additional protection for Chinook.'

 While the Hoh River watershed is closed, anglers are encouraged to explore other areas in the park for fishing.