2017 Halibut Proposals

[JimmyHoffa]

Saw this article about the upcoming 2017 Halibut Season Proposals, thought I'd pass along for you early planners.
http://www.peninsuladailynews.com/sports/outdoors-proposed-halibut-season-options-put-port-angeles-halibut-derby-in-jeopardy/

Option A would allow halibut fishing in traditional halibut areas (Marine Areas 3-6 and 9 here on the North Olympic Peninsula) on three Tuesdays (May 2, 9 and 23) and two Saturdays (May 6, 20). If sufficient quota remains, halibut would be open Saturday, June 3 and Tuesday, June 6.

Option B would move in a Thursday/Sunday direction with halibut open three Thursdays (May 4, 11 and 25) and two Sundays (May 7 and 21). Additional fishing days, provided quota remains after those dates, are Sunday, June 4 and Thursday, June 8.

So, it would be an extra day (probably close early by emergency order anyways) for the ocean; but less days for the strait and Sound.  My guess is quota is met early in 3 and 4, on time in 5 and 6 gets the extra day.  The marine areas would overlap seasons.  In the past, for example, MA 3 and 4 would open a week or two before the strait and sound, so folks would trailer out to hit the deep water and then fish the inner stuff in a later season...giving them more fishing time.

[WAPatriot]

AIDS I'm so so sick for the weekend warriors in this state getting screwed. This plays into the charter fleet getting there's and the regular weekend warrior getting shafted.

[JKEEN33]

I see they are going from Thursday/Saturday to a Tuesday/Saturday. Between the Big Salmon forcing you to pay for the full week to get a reservation rather than the days you are actually there and the terrible season, i may give up halibut fishing after 20+ years of going up there.

[Dmulcahy]

 

[4fletch]

After 30 yrs I gave up