ENTERPRISE, Ore –Due to a surplus of spring chinook in the Upper Snake River, Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife biologists will extend the spring chinook season and increase bag limits until July 2.

Originally slated for closure on June 18, spring chinook angling between Dug Bar and Hells Canyon Dam will remain open each Friday through Monday until July 2. The open area is the Snake River from Dug Bar boat ramp upstream to the deadline below Hells Canyon Dam.

The new daily bag limit for this fishery is two adipose fin-clipped spring chinook, one of which may be an adult or 2 jack salmon per day. Only barbless hooks may be used. All anglers are reminded to consult the 2007 Oregon Sport Fishing Regulations for additional gear restrictions, legal angling times and other applicable sport fishing regulations.

“Catchable fish are still in the river and we are hopeful the longer season will provide more anglers with the thrill of landing these magnificent fish,” said

Scott Patterson, ODFW’s northeast region hatchery coordinator.

This is the fourth consecutive year fishery co-managers ODFW and Idaho Fish and Game have been able to approve opening this fishery because of surplus fish returning to the base of Hells Canyon Dam.

The mission of the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife is to protect and enhance Oregon's fish and wildlife and their habitats for use and enjoyment by present and future generations. The agency consists of the Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission, a commission-appointed director and a statewide staff of approximately 950 permanent employees. Headquartered in Salem, ODFW has regional offices in Clackamas, Roseburg, Bend, and La Grande with ten district offices located throughout the state. For additional information, please visit www.dfw.state.or.us.