On March 15, 2025, anglers hoping for success during the smelt dipping opener on the lower end of the Cowlitz River faced disappointing results as almost no smelt were reported caught. The wet weather conditions, which have become typical for this time of year, did not deter persistent fishers. They eagerly awaited any signs of the oily fish, hoping for some encouraging news from the Lower Columbia as the final openers for the season approach on March 19 and March 22.
Britton Ransford, spokesman for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), reported the situation succinctly: “Still stacked in the mainstem, from County Line Park to the mouth.” While the fish may have been present, they were not gathering at the expected locations for recreational dipping. Early marine mammal activity on the lower Cowlitz River was noted, indicating there were no evident signs of smelt running upriver.
During the WDFW’s fishing hours from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., no smelt were documented at the agency’s check stations located at Castle Rock and Gearhart Gardens. This lack of activity meant there were also no smelt-related citations issued during this period. Fishers encountered more luck plunking for steelhead, with reports confirming some steelhead had been landed.
Despite the disappointing opener, the recent trends indicate potential increases for future smelt appearances. Last week, commercial test-fishing boat deliveries increased, exceeding the WDFW and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) management plan’s benchmark of 250 pounds. The uptrend signals higher abundance rates within the Lower Columbia region, which could lead to improved fishing conditions moving forward.
On March 10 and March 12, 2025, nearly 21,000 pounds of smelt were successfully caught across six landings. The average catch per delivery flared to just under 3,500 pounds, presenting the chance for recreational fishers to experience successful dippings soon.
An unexpected indicator of smelt abundance was captured via video on March 15, showcasing large groups of sea lions congregated at the mouth of the Cowlitz River. While considered good news, it raises challenges for fisheries management and local environments due to increased competition for the resource.
Although some observers expressed concern over the growing sea lion population, legislative developments on this front were sluggish. A recent bill, House Joint Memorial 4004, aimed at requesting Congress to amend the Marine Mammal Protection Act to provide more significant leeway for managing these marine mammals, failed to progress past the deadline and did not make it out of its house of origin as of March 12.
The fishing community continues to rely heavily on observations such as the presence of seagulls, another positive indicator signaling when smelt runs will likely surge upstream. Anglers are advised to consult local resources for the latest reports before setting off for their fishing trips. The unpredictability of smelt populations leaves fishers hopeful but not assured of success.
Looking back, the statistics from previous years highlight the struggle for commercial and sport fishers alike. Since 2014, recreational dippers on the Cowlitz have boasted catches of nearly 1 million pounds of smelt, whereas commercial test boats have rounded up only 133,593 pounds. These figures reflect not merely the labor but the passion and tradition embedded within the local fishing culture.
While March 15 will be remembered as a washout for smelt dipping, upcoming days represent fresh opportunities. For now, the gelid rain and wind drive home the unpredictability inherent to nature’s cycles.