LEWISTON, ID – Idaho Fish and Game will release proposed spring and summer Chinook salmon fishing seasons on Feb. 11, opening a public comment period that runs through Feb. 22, according to the agency.
The proposals will outline potential fishing opportunities based on early run forecasts. Fisheries managers typically adjust those proposals as more information becomes available from fish counts at Columbia and Snake River dams.
Anglers will be able to review the proposals online once they are posted and submit comments during the public input window. After public feedback is reviewed, season proposals will be presented to the Fish and Game Commission at its March 25 meeting in Boise.
As part of the comment period, four regional public meetings will be held across the state, including local meetings in Lewiston and Ahsahka. Fish and Game fisheries biologists will discuss last year’s Chinook season, expectations for the 2026 return, and possible management strategies for the upcoming fisheries. Public input will be taken at each meeting.
All meetings are free to attend, and Fish and Game says complimentary pizza and beverages will be provided. Meetings typically last about two hours.
Upcoming Public Meetings
- Riggins — Feb. 17, 5:30 p.m. MST
City of Riggins Community Center (2nd Floor), 121 Lodge St. - Lewiston — Feb. 18, 5:30 p.m. PST
Idaho Fish and Game Clearwater Regional Office, 3316 16th St. - Nampa — Feb. 18, 5:30 p.m. MST
Idaho Fish and Game Southwest Regional Office, 15950 N. Gate Blvd. - Ahsahka — Feb. 19, 5:30 p.m. PST
Clearwater Fish Hatchery, 118 Ahsahka Rd.
Fish and Game officials say angler input is an important part of shaping Chinook fisheries and encourage participation either online or in person during the comment period.
