Baker Lake, with Mount Baker rising above the water, is now Washington's premier sockeye salmon fishery after a near complete collapse. WDFW will require mandatory watercraft inspections throughout the Baker Lake sockeye season to protect the pristine waters from invasive species. (Photo: PNW Daily)
BAKER LAKE, Wash. — Anglers heading to Baker Lake for Saturday’s sockeye salmon opener should expect mandatory watercraft inspections before launching if Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife crews are on site.
The inspections will help prevent aquatic invasive species, including invasive freshwater mussels, from entering the lake during one of Washington’s busiest salmon fisheries.
WDFW closed the Tulalip Bubble this past week, Brewster is closed on the Columbia and those along with other anglers from the salt headed to Baker Lake, means officials anticipate boats that might include invasive species.
“If inspectors are present, watercraft inspection is mandatory to help prevent the spread of AIS like invasive freshwater mussels that threaten our environment, fisheries, recreation opportunities, and economy.”
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
“If inspectors are present, watercraft inspection is mandatory to help prevent the spread of AIS like invasive freshwater mussels that threaten our environment, fisheries, recreation opportunities, and economy,” WDFW said.
Clean, Drain, Dry Before Arriving
WDFW asks anglers to clean, drain and dry every boat, kayak and trailer before arriving at Baker Lake.
Removing mud, plants and standing water before traveling helps inspectors complete checks more quickly. It also reduces the risk of spreading invasive species between Washington waterways.
If inspectors find aquatic invasive species, WDFW will decontaminate the watercraft free of charge.
Expect Brief Delays at the Launch
The inspections support the Baker Lake sockeye fishery, which opens Saturday, July 11.
WDFW, the U.S. Forest Service, Puget Sound Energy and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police work together to manage the fishery each year.
Officials ask anglers to allow extra time before launching. They also encourage everyone to cooperate with inspectors so lines move quickly throughout the opening weekend.
By following the Clean, Drain, Dry process before arriving, anglers can spend less time at the inspection station and more time on the water while helping protect future fishing opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
About the Author
