WDFW Police are seeking any information related to the illegal harvest and dumping of three, filleted sturgeon carcasses and approximately two dozen, tule Chinook salmon carcasses, located approximately five miles up the Washougal River in Clark County sometime on or before Sept. 5, 2024. (Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Police photo)
Police are seeking any information related to the illegal harvest and dumping of three, filleted sturgeon carcasses and approximately two dozen, tule Chinook salmon carcasses, located approximately five miles up the Washougal River last week.
The incident occurred sometime on or before Sept. 5 when Department of Fish and Wildlife Officers received the report and responded. Once on scene, the officers observed three filleted sturgeon carcasses that had been placed on the road and a large pile of approximately two dozen tule Chinook salmon located in the nearby blackberry bushes.
It appeared all but two of the Chinook salmon were filleted. Just to the downstream side of the pile of fish, were a dozen black plastic bags filled with yard debris. It did not appear there was any garbage inside of the bags.
After scouring the area, there was no evidence left at the scene to provide any leads as to who may have dumped the carcasses. It is also currently unknown where the fish may have been harvested.
“We would like to thank those that reported the incident to us,” said WDFW Captain Jeff Wickersham. “We rely on tips from the public since they are often the eyes and the ears in the outdoors. We are hopeful that someone will come forward with information on how these fish ended up on the side of the road.”
Coastal Conservation Association Washington is contributing a reward of $1,000 for information leading to convictions in this case.
“We are deeply disturbed by the illegal dumping of sturgeon and salmon on the Washougal River,” said Nello Picinich, Executive Director of CCA Washington. “This reckless act not only damages our fragile fish populations, but also undermines years of conservation work. Protecting these species is at the heart of our mission, and we urge anyone with information to come forward. Our rivers and fish deserve better.”
The Department encourages anyone who might have relevant information about this incident to contact WDFW at 877-933-9847, email WDFW’s poaching tip email, or send a text tip to 847411. The public can also report online on WDFW’s website. Tips can be provided anonymously. Those who provide information leading to an arrest may be eligible for an Agency cash reward.
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