Spring Chinook fishing in Hells Canyon closes early
By Terry Murry on Thursday, June 4th, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Columbia Basin Top Stories
ENTERPRISE – Oregon and Idaho have closed Spring Chinook fishing on the Snake River early due to low runs. Normally the season is open until mid-August, but fish biologists are closing it today (Thursday).
“We understand how important this opportunity is to local anglers, and early closures are never easy,” Enterprise District Fish Biologist Kyle Bratcher said. “But with returns lagging, lower mainstream migratory success, and a reduction in harvest allowances, closure of the fishery is the responsible step to protect the run moving forward.”
The closure applies to the Snake River from the Dug Bar Boat Ramp upstream to Hells Canyon Dam.
Bratcher and other officials remind anglers to always check for in-season regulation changes in their zone before fishing, especially for salmon and steelhead.
Dug Bar on the Snake photo from the National Park Service
