Wolf-eel Regulations in Washington (2026)

Recreational wolf-eel rules in Washington saltwater, as published by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Last checked November 7, 2026.

Season

Closed to retention.

Recreational Wolf-eel rules in Washington

In Marine Area 3 and Marine Area 4 (west of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line) effective June 1 through July 31, recreational fishing for bottomfish is prohibited seaward of a boundary line approximating the 20-fm (120 ft.) depth contour. Beginning June 1, on days open to the Pacific halibut fishery, the following bottomfish can be retained seaward of 20 fathoms: lingcod, sablefish, Pacific cod, bocaccio, silvergray rockfish, canary rockfish, widow rockfish, and yellowtail rockfish. Yellowtail and widow rockfish retention is allowed seaward of 20 fathoms at all times during the month of July.
In Marine Area 4B (east of the Bonnilla Tatoosh line) recreational fishing for bottomfish is prohibited seaward of the Bottomfish Closure line year-round. On days open to the Pacific halibut fishery in this area, no bottomfish except lingcod, sablefish, and Pacific cod can be retained seaward of the Bottomfish Closure line. Yellowtail and widow rockfish retention is allowed seaward of the Bottomfish Closure line on days open to recreational salmon fishing July 1-Aug. 31.
The retention of yelloweye rockfish is prohibited in all Marine Areas.
Area Closures

Closed to retention.. Whether it is open on a specific day can change by emergency rule — check today's status in the app.

Source: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Most anglers need a Washington saltwater license or registry: get one here.