Bill > HB2003

This bill establishes a new Columbia River Recreational Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement program that requires all persons 15 years and older to purchase a specific endorsement ($7.50 for residents and non-residents, $6 for youth and seniors) to fish recreationally for salmon or steelhead in the Columbia River and its tributaries. The endorsement fees will be deposited into a dedicated state account that can only be used to support recreational fishing opportunities, including monitoring, hatchery production, pinniped (seal and sea lion) removal, and enforcement. The bill defines the Columbia River as the area between Rocky Point in Washington and Tongue Point in Oregon, extending to the Chief Joseph Dam. By December 1, 2026, the department must review the program, prepare a summary of its activities, and provide a recommendation to the legislature about continuing the program. Both the endorsement requirement and the account are set to expire on January 1, 2028, with the program taking effect on January 1, 2026. The bill aims to create a sustainable funding mechanism for managing and enhancing recreational fishing in the Columbia River region.