WDFW Cowlitz River Catch-and-Release Study

Andy Coleman of Andy’s Angling Adventures was selected to participate in a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) research study examining catch-and-release mortality rates on the Cowlitz River — one of the most important salmon and steelhead fisheries in the Pacific Northwest.

About the Study

WDFW contracted with Mt. Hood Environmental to conduct a multi-year field study evaluating the effects of recreational angling on the post-release survival of adult salmon and steelhead in the Cowlitz River system. The study’s findings were submitted to the Washington State Legislature as a proviso report and have helped shape catch-and-release regulations across the state.

Andy’s Role

Mt. Hood Environmental hired Andy to guide their research team on the Cowlitz River, going out twice a month over the course of the study. As a lifelong Cowlitz Valley angler based in Mossyrock, Andy brought deep knowledge of the river’s currents, seasonal patterns, and fish behavior — helping researchers locate and land the fish needed for their data collection.

The research team noted that having Andy involved was invaluable. His ability to consistently put them on fish, combined with his understanding of the unwritten rules and etiquette of the river, allowed the study to proceed efficiently and with respect for other anglers on the water.

Why It Matters

Catch-and-release fishing is a cornerstone of sustainable fisheries management, but its effectiveness depends on understanding how many released fish actually survive. This study measured hooking mortality rates for adult salmon and steelhead under real-world angling conditions on the Cowlitz River — the kind of data that directly informs WDFW’s harvest regulations and conservation goals.

For Andy, participating in this research reflects the same commitment to conservation and stewardship that guides his work every day on the water. Sustainable fishing practices ensure that the Cowlitz, Lewis, Columbia, and Chehalis rivers remain productive fisheries for generations to come.

This research was originally covered by The Daily Chronicle. The full WDFW proviso report is available through the Washington State Legislature.