Washington to Reopen Boat Ramps

Washington governor Jay Inslee issued an order to re-open state boat ramps on May 5. That will be followed by a plan to slowly start the state’s recreational fishing seasons. This is big news because Washington was one of the last states to have a ban on fishing and boating. Both activities continue to be one of the best ways for families to practice social distancing and to get outdoors and get some much-needed fresh air.

Boaters Rally

Over the weekend, recreational anglers practiced social distancing on the water while peacefully protesting the ban by idling around different bodies of water while displaying “Let Us Fish” signs on their boats.

The state’s department of fish and wildlife closed all public access points, including boat ramps and state parks, in late March. A few days later the fishing season was delayed when Inslee first issued a stay-at-home order to slow the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Follow Guidelines

When the ramps and related facilities do open in May, boaters must follow social-distancing guidelines. They can only have immediate family on board and they cannot congregate at ramps while launching or raft up when out on the water. The Northwest Marine Trade Association has a full list of guidelines on its website.

Recreational fishing will reportedly open later in May, starting with freshwater species like walleye, trout and bass because they required less monitoring. Salmon season will probably be the last to open.

Peter Schrappen, director of government affairs for the NMTA, said that the re-opening process will be one of phasing in as opposed to flipping a switch.

“We are excited to get people back out recreating in a responsible and safe manner,” he said.