Cowlitz smelt dip approved for Wednesday, but no fish in river yet

Dippers limited to 10 pounds of fish and encouraged to wear life vests

By: Henry Brannan

Outlets: The Columbian

Published: February 16, 2026

Words: 739

Last Updated: 1 month ago

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The Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife announced Friday the first — and potentially only — day of this year’s Cowlitz River recreational smelt fishery: 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday.

The season started Feb. 4 and will run through March 21.

Each Friday, the agency announces on its website an update on whether the following Wednesday and Saturday will be open for dipping or not.

How the agency manages the prized local tradition …

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