HB 2205 - DIGEST

Provides that the marine waters of the state of Washington may not be permanently closed to recreational fishing unless: (1) There is a clear indication that recreational fishing is the cause of a specific conservation problem and that less severe conservation measures, including but not limited to, minimum size requirements, bag limits, or seasonal closures will not adequately provide for conservation of the affected stocks of fish;

(2) The closed area rules include specific measurable criteria to determine the conservation benefit of the closed area on the affected stocks of fish and provide a timetable for periodic review of the continued need for the closed area at least once every three years;

(3) The closed area is no larger than that which is supported by the best available scientific information as determined by the department; and

(4) Provisions are made to reopen the closed area to recreational fishing whenever the basis for the closure no longer exists.