WDFW Seeks Public Input on 2026–27 Coastal Steelhead Fishing Season
Washington residents can join a virtual town hall on November 10 to review steelhead forecasts, discuss proposed fishing rules and share feedback with state fishery managers.
· All Seattle News Desk
Washington Officials Invite Anglers to Discuss Upcoming Coastal Steelhead Season
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is asking anglers and other members of the public to help shape plans for the 2026–27 coastal steelhead fishing season.
The department will hold an online town hall on Tuesday, November 10, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Participants must register in advance to attend the Zoom meeting.
During the session, WDFW fishery managers will review information about the number of steelhead that returned to coastal rivers during the 2025–26 season, present preliminary forecasts for the upcoming season and outline proposed fishing regulations.
Attendees will also have an opportunity to ask questions and provide comments.
“We’re focused on balancing wild steelhead conservation with providing meaningful fishing opportunities for hatchery steelhead,” said Chad Herring, WDFW’s regional fish program manager for the Coastal Region. He said public feedback helps the department develop sustainable fishing seasons.
The planning process follows Washington’s Statewide Steelhead Management Plan, which prioritizes the long-term health of wild steelhead populations. The plan considers four key factors: abundance, productivity, diversity and distribution.
Steelhead are a migratory form of rainbow trout that travel between freshwater rivers and the Pacific Ocean. The fish can grow to more than 30 pounds and hold an important place in Washington’s natural heritage, recreational fishing industry and regional culture.
WDFW encourages people from across the state to participate in its public feedback process. The department says public input opportunities are open to everyone, regardless of background or identity.
Meeting details:
- Date: November 10, 2026
- Time: 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
- Format: Online via Zoom
- Advance registration: Required
Residents can register through the WDFW Zoom webinar registration page.
More information about coastal steelhead management and the department’s conservation plan is available on the WDFW website.
Source: Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife