Appendix D

RELATED REGULATIONS , P OLICIES , 

L AWS , AND L EGISLATION
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 51

APPENDIX D: RELATED REGULATIONS, 

POLICIES, LAWS, AND LEGISLATION 
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52 DRAFT MOUNTAIN LAKES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

APPENDIX D 

TABLE OF CONTENTS

General Laws Relating to NPS Management.......................................................................................... 54 

National Parks Omnibus Management Act................................................................................................. 54 

1978 Redwood Amendment........................................................................................................................ 54 

Code of Federal Regulations....................................................................................................................... 55 

36 C.F.R. § 1.2 ..................................................................................................................................... 55 

36 C.F.R. § 1.5 ..................................................................................................................................... 55 

36 C.F.R. § 1.7 ..................................................................................................................................... 56 

Federal Laws and NPS Management Policies Relating to 

Fish Stocking (Exotic Species)................................................................................................................ 56 

Code of Federal Regulations....................................................................................................................... 56 

36 C.F.R. § 2.1 ..................................................................................................................................... 56 

NPS Management Policies.......................................................................................................................... 56 

4.1.5 Restoration of Natural Systems ........................................................................................ 56 

4.4.1.1 Plant and Animal Population Management Principles....................................... 57 

4.4.3 Harvest of Plants and Animals by the Public.................................................................... 58 

4.4.4 Management of Exotic Species......................................................................................... 59 

4.4.4.1 Introduction or Maintenance of Exotic Species ................................................. 59 

4.4.4.2 Removal of Exotic Species Already Present...................................................... 60 

Federal Laws and NPS Management Policies Relating to Wilderness Areas..................................... 61 

The Wilderness Act..................................................................................................................................... 61 

NPS Management Policies Relating to Wilderness Areas.......................................................................... 62 

6.1 General Statement.......................................................................................................................... 62 

6.3.1 Wilderness Resource Management, General Policy......................................................... 63 

6.3.4.3 Environmental Compliance............................................................................... .63 

6.3.5 Minimum Requirement..................................................................................................... 63 

6.3.7 Natural Resources Management ....................................................................................... 64 

6.3.10.2 Trails in Wilderness ........................................................................................... 65 

6.4 Wilderness Use Management ........................................................................................................ 65 

6.4.1 Wilderness Use Management, General Policy.................................................................. 65 

6.4.3 Recreational Use Management in Wilderness .................................................................. 66 

6.4.3.1 Recreation Use Evaluation................................................................................. 66 

6.4.3.3 Use of Motorized Equipment............................................................................. 66 

6.4.6 Existing Private Rights ..................................................................................................... 67 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 53

NPS Management Policies Relating to Recreational Use........................................................................... 67 

8.2.2 Recreational Activities...................................................................................................... 67 

8.2.2.5 Fishing................................................................................................................ 67 

Park Specific Legislation ......................................................................................................................... 67 

Enabling Legislation ................................................................................................................................... 67 

North Cascades National Park ....................................................................................................... 67 

Ross Lake National Recreation Area............................................................................................. 68 

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area ......................................................................................... 68

Washington Parks Wilderness Act of 1988 ................................................................................................ 68 

Title II: North Cascades National Park Service Complex Wilderness Sec. 201. 

Designation................................................................................................................................................ 68 

Washington State Fishing Regulations .................................................................................................. 69 

General Rules.............................................................................................................................................. 70 

Freshwater Rules......................................................................................................................................... 70 

Seasons........................................................................................................................................................ 70 

Statewide Freshwater Species Rules...................................................................................................... 70 

Westside Rivers Special Rules.................................................................................................................... 71 
54 DRAFT MOUNTAIN LAKES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

APPENDIX D: RELATED REGULATIONS, 

POLICIES, LAWS, AND LEGISLATION 

GENERAL LAWS RELATING TO NPS MANAGEMENT 

This section is intended to highlight the existing laws, regulations, and National Park Service (NPS) 

management policies that specifically relate to the issues surrounding this North Cascades National Park 

Service Complex Draft Mountain Lakes Fishery Management Plan / Environmental Impact Statement

(plan/EIS).

1. National Parks Omnibus Management Act of 1998 (16 USC § 5931, et. seq.) 

16 USC§ 5931, Purposes 

The purposes of this title are 

(1) to more effectively achieve the mission of the National Park Service; (2) to enhance 

management and protection of national park resources by providing clear authority and 

direction for the conduct of scientific study in the National Park System and to use the 

information gathered for management purposes; (3) to ensure appropriate documentation of 

resource conditions in the National Park System; (4) to encourage others to use the National 

Park System for study to the benefit of park management as well as broader scientific value, 

where such study is consistent with the Act of August 25, 1916 (commonly known as the 

National Park Service Organic Act); and (5) to encourage the publication and dissemination 

of information derived from studies in the National Park System. 

16 USC § 5932, Research mandate 

The Secretary is authorized and directed to assure that management of units of the National 

Park System is enhanced by the availability and utilization of a broad program of the highest 

quality science and information. 

16 USC § 5936, Integration of study results into management decisions 

The Secretary shall take such measures as are necessary to assure the full and proper 

utilization of the results of scientific study for park management decisions. In each case in 

which an action undertaken by the National Park Service may cause a significant adverse 

effect on a park resource, the administrative record shall reflect the manner in which unit 

resource studies have been considered. The trend in the condition of resources of the National 

Park System shall be a significant factor in the annual performance evaluation of each 

superintendent of a unit of the National Park System. 

2. 1978 Redwood Amendment, which added these words to the NPS Organic Act (16 USC § 1a-1) 

Congress further reaffirms, declares, and directs that the promotion and regulation of the various 

areas of the National Park System, as defined in section 2 of this Act, shall be consistent with and 

founded in the purpose established by the first section of the Act of August 25, 1916, to the common 

benefit of all the people of the United States. The authorization of activities shall be construed and the 

protection, management, and administration of these areas shall be conducted in light of the high 

public value and integrity of the National Park System and shall not be exercised in derogation of the 

values and purposes for which these various areas have been established, except as may have been or 

shall be directly and specifically provided by Congress. 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 55

3. Code of Federal Regulations 

36 CFR § 1.2, Applicability and scope 

(a) The regulations contained in this chapter apply to all persons entering, using, visiting, or 

otherwise within: 

(1) The boundaries of federally owned lands and waters administered by the National Park 

Service; (2) The boundaries of lands and waters administered by the National Park Service 

for public-use purposes pursuant to the terms of a written instrument; (3) Waters subject to 

the jurisdiction of the United States located within the boundaries of the National Park 

System, including navigable waters and areas within their ordinary reach (up to the mean 

high water line in places subject to the ebb and flow of the tide and up to the ordinary high 

water mark in other places) and without regard to the ownership of submerged lands, 

tidelands, or lowlands; 

(d) The regulations contained in parts 2 through 5, part 7, and part 13 of this section shall not 

be construed to prohibit administrative activities conducted by the National Park Service, or 

its agents, in accordance with approved general management and resource management plans, 

or in emergency operations involving threats to life, property, or park resources. 

36 CFR § 1.5, Closures and public use limits 

(a) Consistent with applicable legislation and Federal administrative policies, and based upon 

a determination that such action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, 

protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, aid to 

scientific research, implementation of management responsibilities, equitable allocation and 

use of facilities, or the avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities, the superintendent 

may: 

(1) Establish, for all or a portion of a park area, a reasonable schedule of visiting hours, 

impose public use limits, or close all or a portion of a park area to all public use or to a 

specific use or activity. (2) Designate areas for a specific use or activity, or impose conditions 

or restrictions on a use or activity. (3) Terminate a restriction, limit, closure, designation, 

condition, or visiting hour restriction imposed under paragraph (a)(1) or (2) of this section. 

(b) Except in emergency situations, a closure, designation, use or activity restriction or 

condition, or the termination or relaxation of such, which is of a nature, magnitude and 

duration that will result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the park area, 

adversely affect the park's natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, require a long-term or 

significant modification in the resource management objectives of the unit, or is of a highly 

controversial nature, shall be published as rulemaking in the Federal Register. 

(c) Except in emergency situations, prior to implementing or terminating a restriction, 

condition, public use limit or closure, the superintendent shall prepare a written determination 

justifying the action. That determination shall set forth the reason(s) the restriction, condition, 

public use limit or closure authorized by paragraph (a) has been established, and an 

explanation of why less restrictive measures will not suffice, or in the case of a termination of 

a restriction, condition, public use limit or closure previously established under paragraph (a), 

a determination as to why the restriction is no longer necessary and a finding that the 

termination will not adversely impact park resources. This determination shall be available to 

the public upon request. 

(d) To implement a public use limit, the superintendent may establish a permit, registration, 

or reservation system. Permits shall be issued in accordance with the criteria and procedures 

of § 1.6 of this chapter. 
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(e) Except in emergency situations, the public will be informed of closures, designations, and 

use or activity restrictions or conditions, visiting hours, public use limits, public use limit 

procedures, and the termination or relaxation of such, in accordance with § 1.7 of this 

chapter. 

(f) Violating a closure, designation, use or activity restriction or condition, schedule of 

visiting hours, or public use limit is prohibited. 

36 CFR § 1.7, Public notice 

(a) Whenever the authority of § 1.5(a) is invoked to restrict or control a public use or activity, 

to relax or revoke an existing restriction or control, to designate all or a portion of a park area 

as open or closed, or to require a permit to implement a public use limit, the public shall be 

notified by one or more of the following methods: 

(1) Signs posted at conspicuous locations, such as normal points of entry and reasonable 

intervals along the boundary of the affected park locale. (2) Maps available in the office of 

the superintendent and other places convenient to the public. (3) Publication in a newspaper 

of general circulation in the affected area. (4) Other appropriate methods, such as the removal 

of closure signs, use of electronic media, park brochures, maps and handouts. 

(b) In addition to the above-described notification procedures, the superintendent shall 

compile in writing all the designations, closures, permit requirements and other restrictions 

imposed under discretionary authority. This compilation shall be updated annually and made 

available to the public upon request. 

FEDERAL LAWS AND NPS MANAGEMENT POLICIES 

RELATING TO FISH STOCKING (EXOTIC SPECIES ) 

1. Code of Federal Regulations 

36 CFR § 2.1, Preservation of natural, cultural and archeological resources 

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, the following is prohibited: 

(1) Possessing, destroying, injuring, defacing, removing, digging, or disturbing from its 

natural state: (i) Living or dead wildlife or fish, or the parts or products thereof, such as 

antlers or nests. 

(2) Introducing wildlife, fish or plants, including their reproductive bodies, into a park area 

ecosystem. 

2. NPS Management Policies 

4.1.5 Restoration of Natural Systems 

The Service will re-establish natural functions and processes in human-disturbed components 

of natural systems in parks unless otherwise directed by Congress. Landscapes disturbed by 

natural phenomena, such as landslides, earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, and fires, 

will be allowed to recover naturally unless manipulation is necessary to protect park 

developments or visitor safety. Impacts to natural systems resulting from human disturbances 

include the introduction of exotic species; the contamination of air, water, and soil; changes 

to hydrologic patterns and sediment transport; the acceleration of erosion and sedimentation; 

and the disruption of natural processes. The Service will seek to return human-disturbed areas 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 57

to the natural conditions and processes characteristic of the ecological zone in which the 

damaged resources are situated. The Service will use the best available technology, within 

available resources, to restore the biological and physical components of these systems, 

accelerating both their recovery and the recovery of landscape and biological-community 

structure and function. Efforts may include, for example: 

• Removal of exotic species; 

• Removal of contaminants and non-historic structures or facilities; 

• Restoration of abandoned mineral lands, abandoned or unauthorized roads, areas over-grazed 

by domestic animals, or disrupted natural waterways and/ or shoreline processes; 

• Restoration of areas disturbed by NPS administrative, management, or development activities 

(such as hazard tree removal, construction, or sand and gravel extraction) or by public use; 

• Restoration of natural soundscapes; and 

• Restoration of native plants and animals. 

When park development is damaged or destroyed and replacement is necessary, the 

development will be replaced or relocated so as to promote the restoration of natural 

resources and processes. 

(See Decision-making Requirements to Avoid Impairments 1.4.7; Restoration of Native Plant 

and Animal Species 4.4.2.2; Management of Natural Landscapes 4.4.2.4; Siting Facilities to 

Avoid Natural Hazards 9.1.1.6. Also see Director’s Order #18: Wildland fire Management) 

4.4.1.1 Plant and Animal Population Management Principles 

The individual plants and animals found within parks are genetically parts of species 

populations that may extend across both park and non-park lands. As local populations within 

a group of populations naturally fluctuate in size, they become vulnerable to natural or 

human-caused extirpation during periods when their numbers are low. The periodic 

disappearance of local populations is common in some species, and the regional persistence 

of these species depends upon the natural recolonization of suitable habitat by individuals 

from the remaining local populations. Thus, providing for the persistence of a species in a 

park may require maintaining a number of local populations, often both within and outside 

the park. 

In addition, some populations of vertebrate and invertebrate animals, such as bats, caribou, 

warblers, marine turtles, frogs, salmon, whales, and butterflies, migrate at regular intervals 

into and out of parks. For these migratory populations, the parks provide only one of the 

several major habitats they need, and survival of the species in parks also depends on the 

existence and quality of habitats outside the parks. The Service will adopt park resource 

preservation, development, and use management strategies that are intended to maintain the 

natural population fluctuations and processes that influence the dynamics of individual plant 

and animal populations, groups of plant and animal populations, and migratory animal 

populations in parks. 

In addition to maintaining all native plant and animal species and their habitats inside parks, 

the Service will work with other land managers to encourage the conservation of the 
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58 DRAFT MOUNTAIN LAKES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

populations and habitats of these species outside parks whenever possible. To meet its 

commitments for maintaining native species in parks, the Service will cooperate with states, 

tribal governments, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the National Marine fisheries 

Service, as appropriate, to: 

• Participate in local and regional scientific and planning efforts, identify ranges of populations 

of native plants and animals, and develop cooperative strategies for maintaining or restoring 

these populations in the parks; 

• Suggest mutually beneficial harvest regulations for lands and waters outside the parks for 

populations that extend across park boundaries, such as resident deer or fishes; for shortdistance seasonal migrant populations, such as elk or fishes; or for long-distance migrant 

populations, such as salmon; 

• Develop data, through monitoring, for use in plant and animal management programs (such 

as local land management decision-making for assessing resident plant and animal population 

trends, and in international management negotiations for such far-ranging seasonal migrants 

as geese, whales, and marine turtles); 

• Present information about species life cycles, ranges, and population dynamics in park 

interpretive programs for use in increasing public awareness of management needs for all 

species, both resident and migrant, that occur in parks; and 

• Prevent the introduction of exotic species into units of the National Park System, and remove 

populations of these species that have already become established in parks. 

4.4.3 Harvest of Plants and Animals by the Public 

Public harvesting of designated species of plants and animals, or their components, may be 

allowed in park units when: 

• Hunting, trapping, subsistence use, or other harvesting is specifically authorized by statute or 

regulation and not subsequently prohibited by regulation; 

• Harvest of certain plant parts or unoccupied seashells for personal consumption or use is 

specifically authorized by the superintendent in accordance with 36 CFR 2. 1( c)( 1); 

• Recreational fishing is not specifically prohibited; or 

• Commercial fishing is specifically authorized by statute or regulation. 

Where harvesting is allowed and subject to NPS control, the Service will allow harvesting 

only when the monitoring requirement contained in section 4.4.2 and the criteria in 

section 4.4.2.1, above, have been met, and the Service has determined that the harvesting will 

not unacceptably impact park resources or natural processes, including the natural 

distributions, densities, age-class distributions, and behavior of: 

• Harvested species; 

• Native species that the harvested species use for any purpose; or 

• Native species that use the harvested species for any purpose. 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 59

The Service will manage harvesting programs, and any associated habitat management 

programs intended to restore and maintain habitats supporting harvested plant or animal 

populations, to conform with applicable federal and state regulations and in consultation and 

cooperation, as appropriate, with individual states or tribal governments. 

Habitat manipulation for harvested species may include the restoration of a disturbed area to 

its natural condition so it can become self-perpetuating, but will not include the artificial 

manipulation of habitat to increase the numbers of a harvested species above its natural range 

in population levels. 

The Service may encourage the intensive harvesting of exotic species in certain situations 

when needed to meet park management objectives. 

In some situations, the Park Service may stock native or exotic animals for recreational 

harvesting purposes, but only when such stocking will not impair park natural resources or 

processes, and: 

• The stocking is of fish into constructed large reservoirs or other significantly altered large 

water bodies and the purpose is to provide for recreational fishing; or 

• Such stocking is in a national recreation area or preserve that has historically been stocked (in 

these situations, stocking only of the same species may be continued); or 

• Congressional intent for stocking is expressed in statute or a House or Senate report 

accompanying a statute. 

The Service will not stock waters that are naturally barren of harvested aquatic species. 

4.4.4 Management of Exotic Species 

Exotic species will not be allowed to displace native species if displacement can be 

prevented. 

4.4.4.1 Introduction or Maintenance of Exotic Species 

In general, new exotic species will not be introduced into parks. In rare situations, an exotic 

species may be introduced or maintained to meet specific, identified management needs when 

all feasible and prudent measures to minimize the risk of harm have been taken, and it is: 

• A closely related race, subspecies, or hybrid of an extirpated native species; or 

• An improved variety of a native species in situations in which the natural variety cannot 

survive current, human-altered environmental conditions; or Used to control another, alreadyestablished exotic species; or 

• Needed to meet the desired condition of a historic resource, but only where it is prevented 

from being invasive by such means as cultivating (for plants), or tethering, herding, or 

pasturing (for animals). In such cases, the exotic species used must be known to be 

historically significant, to have existed in the park during the park’s period of historical 

significance, or to have been commonly used in the local area at that time; or 

• An agricultural crop used to maintain the character of a cultural landscape; or 
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• Necessary to provide for intensive visitor use in developed areas, and both of the following 

conditions exist: 

− Available native species will not meet park management objectives; and 

− The exotic species is managed so it will not spread or become a pest on park or adjacent 

lands; or 

• A sterile, non-invasive plant that is used temporarily for erosion control; or 

• Directed by law or expressed legislative intent. 

Domestic livestock such as cattle, sheep, goats, horses, mules, burros, reindeer, and llamas 

are exotic species that are maintained in some parks for purposes of commercial herding, 

pasturing, grazing, or trailing; for recreational use; or for administrative use for maintaining 

the historic scene or supporting park operations. The policies applicable to the grazing of 

commercial domestic livestock are discussed in chapter 8, section 8. 6. 8. The Service will 

phase out the commercial grazing of livestock whenever possible, and will manage 

recreational and administrative uses of livestock to prevent those uses from unacceptably 

impacting park natural resources. 

4.4.4.2 Removal of Exotic Species Already Present 

All exotic plant and animal species that are not maintained to meet an identified park purpose 

will be managed— up to and including eradication— if (1) control is prudent and feasible, 

and (2) the exotic species: 

• Interferes with natural processes and the perpetuation of natural features, native species or 

natural habitats; or 

• Disrupts the genetic integrity of native species; or 

• Disrupts the accurate presentation of a cultural landscape; or 

• Damages cultural resources; or 

• Significantly hampers the management of park or adjacent lands; or 

• Poses a public health hazard as advised by the U. S. Public Health Service (which includes 

the Centers for Disease Control and the NPS Public Health Program); or 

• Creates a hazard to public safety. 

High priority will be given to managing exotic species that have, or potentially could have, a 

substantial impact on park resources, and that can reasonably be expected to be successfully 

controllable. Lower priority will be given to exotic species that have almost no impact on 

park resources or that probably cannot be successfully controlled. 

The decision to initiate management should be based on a determination that the species is 

exotic. For species determined to be exotic and where management appears to be feasible and 

effective, superintendents should (1) evaluate the species’ current or potential impact on park 

resources; (2) develop and implement exotic species management plans according to 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 61

established planning procedures; (3) consult, as appropriate, with federal and state agencies; 

and (4) invite public review and comment, where appropriate. Programs to manage exotic 

species will be designed to avoid causing significant damage to native species, natural 

ecological communities, natural ecological processes, cultural resources, and human health 

and safety. 

(Also see Executive Order # 13112 (Invasive Species)) 

FEDERAL LAWS AND NPS MANAGEMENT 

POLICIES RELATING TO WILDERNESS AREAS

1. The Wilderness Act (16 USC § 1131, et. seq.) 

16 USC § 1131 

(a) it is hereby declared to be the policy of the Congress to secure for the American people of 

present and future generations the benefits of an enduring resource of wilderness. For this 

purpose there is hereby established a National Wilderness Preservation System to be 

composed of federally owned areas designated by Congress as “wilderness areas”, and these 

shall be administered for the use and enjoyment of the American people in such manner as 

will leave them unimpaired for future use and enjoyment as wilderness, and so as to provide 

for the protection of these areas, the preservation of their wilderness character, and for the 

gathering and dissemination of information regarding their use and enjoyment as wilderness; 

and no Federal lands shall be designated as “wilderness areas” except as provided for in this 

Act or by a subsequent Act. 

(c) Definition of wilderness. A wilderness, in contrast with those areas where man and his 

own works dominate the landscape, is hereby recognized as an area where the earth and its 

community of life are untrammeled by man, where man himself is a visitor who does not 

remain. An area of wilderness is further defined to mean in this Act an area of undeveloped 

Federal land retaining its primeval character and influence, without permanent improvements 

or human habitation, which is protected and managed so as to preserve its natural conditions 

and which (1) generally appears to have been affected primarily by the forces of nature, with 

the imprint of man's work substantially unnoticeable; (2) has outstanding opportunities for 

solitude or a primitive and unconfined type of recreation; (3) has at least five thousand acres 

of land or is of sufficient size as to make practicable its preservation and use in an unimpaired 

condition; and (4) may also contain ecological, geological, or other features of scientific, 

educational, scenic, or historical value. 

16 USC § 1133, Use of wilderness areas 

(a) Purposes of national forests, national park system, and national wildlife refuge system; 

other provisions applicable to national forests, Superior National Forest, and national park 

system. The purposes of this Act are hereby declared to be within and supplemental to the 

purposes for which national forests and units of the national park and national wildlife refuge 

systems are established and administered and— 

(3) Nothing in this Act shall modify the statutory authority under which units of the national 

park system are created. Further, the designation of any area of any park, monument, or other 

unit of the national park system as a wilderness area pursuant to this Act shall in no manner 

lower the standards evolved for the use and preservation of such park, monument, or other 

unit of the national park system in accordance with the Act of August 25, 1916, the statutory 

authority under which the area was created, or any other Act of Congress which might pertain 
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to or affect such area, including, but not limited to, the Act of June 8, 1906 (34 Stat. 225); 

section 3(2) of the Federal Power Act; and the Act of August 21, 1935 (49 Stat. 666) 

(b) Agency responsibility for preservation and administration to preserve wilderness 

character; public purposes of wilderness areas. Except as otherwise provided in this Act each 

agency administering any area designated as wilderness shall be responsible for preserving 

the wilderness character of the area and shall so administer such area for such other purposes 

for which it may have been established as also to preserve its wilderness character. Except as 

otherwise provided in this Act, wilderness areas shall be devoted to the public purposes of 

recreational, scenic, scientific, educational, conservation, and historical use. 

(c) Prohibition provisions: commercial enterprise, permanent or temporary roads, mechanical 

transports, and structures or installations; exceptions: area administration and personal health 

and safety emergencies. Except as specifically provided for in this Act and subject to existing 

private rights, there shall be no commercial enterprise and no permanent road within any 

wilderness area designated by this Act and, except as necessary to meet minimum 

requirements for the administration of the area for the purpose of this Act (including 

measures required in emergencies involving the health and safety of persons within the area), 

there shall be no temporary road, no use of motor vehicles, motorized equipment or 

motorboats, no landing of aircraft, no other form of mechanical transport, and no structure or 

installation within any such area. 

(d) Special provisions. The following special provisions are hereby made: 

(1) Aircraft or motorboats; fire, insects, and diseases. Within wilderness areas designated by 

this Act the use of aircraft or motorboats, where these uses have already become established, 

may be permitted to continue subject to such restrictions as the Secretary of Agriculture 

deems desirable. In addition, such measures may be taken as may be necessary in the control 

of fire, insects, and diseases, subject to such conditions as the Secretary deems desirable. 

(2) Mineral activities, surveys for mineral value. Nothing in this Act shall prevent within 

national forest wilderness areas any activity, including prospecting, for the purpose of 

gathering information about mineral or other resources, if such activity is carried on in a 

manner compatible with the preservation of the wilderness environment. Furthermore, in 

accordance with such program as the Secretary of the Interior shall develop and conduct in 

consultation with the Secretary of Agriculture, such areas shall be surveyed on a planned, 

recurring basis consistent with the concept of wilderness preservation by the [United States] 

Geological Survey and the [United States] Bureau of Mines to determine the mineral values, 

if any, that may be present; and the results of such surveys shall be made available to the 

public and submitted to the President and Congress. 

(6) State water laws exemption. Nothing in this Act shall constitute an express or implied 

claim or denial on the part of the Federal Government as to exemption from State water laws. 

(7) State jurisdiction of wildlife and fish in national forests. Nothing in this Act shall be 

construed as affecting the jurisdiction or responsibilities of the several States with respect to 

wildlife and fish in the national forests. 

2. NPS Management Policies Relating to Wilderness Areas 

6.1 General Statement 

The National Park Service will manage wilderness areas for the use and enjoyment of the 

American people in such a manner as will leave them unimpaired for future use and 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 63

enjoyment as wilderness. Management will include the protection of these areas, the 

preservation of their wilderness character, and the gathering and dissemination of information 

regarding their use and enjoyment as wilderness. The public purpose of wilderness in the 

national parks includes the preservation of wilderness character and wilderness resources in 

an unimpaired condition, as well as for the purposes of recreational, scenic, scientific, 

education, conservation, and historical use. 

6.3.1 Wilderness Resource Management, General Policy 

For the purposes of applying these policies, the term “wilderness” will include the categories 

of suitable, study, proposed, recommended, and designated wilderness. Potential wilderness 

may be a subset of any of these five categories. The policies apply regardless of category. In 

addition to managing these areas for the preservation of the physical wilderness resources, 

planning for these areas must ensure that the wilderness character is likewise preserved. This 

policy will be applied to all planning documents affecting wilderness. The National Park 

Service will take no action that would diminish the wilderness suitability of an area 

possessing wilderness characteristics until the legislative process of wilderness designation 

has been completed. Until that time, management decisions pertaining to lands qualifying as 

wilderness will be made in expectation of eventual wilderness designation. This policy also 

applies to potential wilderness, requiring it to be managed as wilderness to the extent that 

existing non-conforming conditions allow. The National Park Service will seek to remove 

from potential wilderness the temporary, nonconforming conditions that preclude wilderness 

designation. All management decisions affecting wilderness will further apply the concepts of 

“minimum requirements” for the administration of the area regardless of wilderness category. 

6.3.4.3 Environmental Compliance 

Proposals having the potential to impact wilderness resources will be evaluated in accordance 

with National Park Service procedures for implementing NEPA. Those procedures include 

the use of categorical exclusions, environmental assessments (EAs), and/ or environmental 

impact statements (EISs). Administrative actions impacting wilderness must be addressed in 

either the EA or EIS accompanying the approved wilderness management plan, or as a 

separate environmental compliance document. Managers contemplating the use of aircraft or 

other motorized equipment or mechanical transportation within wilderness must consider 

impacts to the character, esthetics, and traditions of wilderness before considering the costs 

and efficiency of the equipment. In evaluating environmental impacts, the National Park 

Service will take into account wilderness characteristics and values, including the primeval 

character and influence of the wilderness; the preservation of natural conditions (including 

the lack of man-made noise); and assurances that there will be outstanding opportunities for 

solitude, that the public will be provided with a primitive and unconfined type of recreational 

experience, and that wilderness will be preserved and used in an unimpaired condition. 

Managers will be expected to appropriately address cultural resources management 

considerations in the development and review of environmental compliance documents 

impacting wilderness resources. 

6.3.5 Minimum Requirement 

All management decisions affecting wilderness must be consistent with the minimum 

requirement concept. This concept is a documented process used to determine whether 

administrative activities affecting wilderness resources or the visitor experience are 

necessary, and how to minimize impacts. The minimum requirement concept will be applied 

as a two-step process that determines: 
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64 DRAFT MOUNTAIN LAKES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

• Whether the proposed management action is appropriate or necessary for administration of 

the area as wilderness and does not pose a significant impact to wilderness resources and 

character; and the techniques and types of equipment needed to ensure that impact to 

wilderness resources and character is minimized. 

• In accordance with this policy, superintendents will apply the minimum requirement concept 

to the context of wilderness management planning, as well as to all other administrative 

practices, proposed special uses, scientific activities, and equipment use in wilderness. When 

determining minimum requirement, the potential disruption of wilderness character and 

resources will be considered before, and given significantly more weight than, economic 

efficiency and convenience. If a compromise of wilderness resources or character is 

unavoidable, only those actions that preserve wilderness character and/ or have localized, 

short-term adverse impacts will be acceptable. 

While park managers have flexibility in identifying the method used to determine minimum 

requirement within the approved wilderness management plan, the method used must clearly 

weigh the benefits and impacts of the proposal, document the decision-making process, and 

be supported by an appropriate environmental compliance document. Parks with no approved 

wilderness management plan must develop a separate process to determine minimum 

requirement until the plan is finally approved. Parks will complete a minimum requirement 

analysis on those administrative practices and equipment uses that have the potential to 

impact wilderness resources or values. The minimum requirement concept cannot be used to 

rationalize permanent roads or inappropriate or unlawful uses in wilderness. 

Administrative use of motorized equipment or mechanical transport will be authorized only: 

• If determined by the superintendent to be the minimum requirement needed by management 

to achieve the purposes of the area as wilderness, including the preservation of wilderness 

character and values; or 

• In emergency situations (search and rescue) involving the health or safety of persons actually 

within the area. Such management activities will be conducted in accordance with all 

applicable regulations, policies, and guidelines, including minimum requirement protocols as 

practicable. 

Such management activities will also be conducted in accordance with all applicable 

regulations, policies, and guidelines and, where practicable, will be scheduled to avoid 

creating adverse resource impacts or conflicts with visitor use. 

6.3.7 Natural Resources Management 

The National Park Service recognizes that wilderness is a composite resource with 

interrelated parts. Without natural resources, especially indigenous and endemic species, a 

wilderness experience would not be possible. Natural resources are critical, defining elements 

of the wilderness resource, but need to be managed within the context of the whole 

ecosystem. Natural resource management plans will be integrated with, and cross-reference, 

wilderness management plans. Pursuing a series of independent component projects in 

wilderness, such as single-species management, will not necessarily accomplish the overarching goal of wilderness management. Natural resources management in wilderness will 

include and be guided by a coordinated program of scientific inventory, monitoring, and 

research. 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 65

The principle of non-degradation will be applied to wilderness management, and each 

wilderness area’s condition will be measured and assessed against its own unimpaired 

standard. Natural processes will be allowed, insofar as possible, to shape and control 

wilderness ecosystems. Management should seek to sustain the natural distribution, numbers, 

population composition, and interaction of indigenous species. Management intervention 

should only be undertaken to the extent necessary to correct past mistakes, the impacts of 

human use, and influences originating outside of wilderness boundaries. 

Management actions, including the restoration of extirpated native species, the altering of 

natural fire regimes, the controlling of invasive alien species, the management of endangered 

species, and the protection of air and water quality, should be attempted only when the 

knowledge and tools exist to accomplish clearly articulated goals. 

6.3.10.2 Trails in Wilderness 

Trails will be permitted within wilderness when they are determined to be necessary for 

resource protection and/ or for providing for visitor use for the purposes of wilderness. The 

identification and inventory of the wilderness trail system will be included as an integral part 

of the wilderness management plan or other appropriate planning document. Trails will be 

maintained at levels and conditions identified within the approved wilderness management 

plan or other planning document. Trail maintenance structures (e. g., waterbars, gabions) may 

be provided, under minimum requirement protocols, where they are essential for resource 

preservation, or where significant safety hazards exist during normal use periods. Historic 

and/ or prehistoric trails will be administered in keeping with approved cultural resource and 

wilderness management plan requirements. 

Borrow pits are not permitted in wilderness areas, with the exception of small-quantity use of 

borrow material for trails, which must be in accordance with an approved wilderness 

management plan. 

6.4 Wilderness Use Management 

The National Park Service will encourage and facilitate those uses of wilderness that are in 

keeping with the definitions and purposes of wilderness and do not degrade wilderness 

resources and character. Appropriate restrictions may be imposed on any authorized activity 

in the interest of preserving wilderness character and resources or to ensure public safety. 

When resource impacts or demands for use exceed established thresholds or capacities, 

superintendents may limit or redirect use. Physical alterations, public education, general 

regulations, special regulations, and permit systems, as well as local restrictions, public use 

limits, closures, and designations implemented under the discretionary authority of the 

superintendent (36 CFR 1. 5 and Part 13; 43 CFR Part 36 for Alaska units), may all be used 

in managing use and protecting wilderness, if these actions are determined to be the 

minimally required level of management. 

6.4.1 Wilderness Use Management, General Policy 

Park visitors need to accept wilderness on its own unique terms. Accordingly, the National 

Park Service will promote education programs that encourage wilderness users to understand 

and be aware of certain risks, including possible dangers arising from wildlife, weather 

conditions, physical features, and other natural phenomena that are inherent in the various 

conditions that comprise a wilderness experience and primitive methods of travel. The 

National Park Service will not modify the wilderness area to eliminate risks that are normally 

associated with wilderness, but it will strive to provide users with general information 
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66 DRAFT MOUNTAIN LAKES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

concerning possible risks, any recommended precautions, related user responsibilities, and 

applicable restrictions and regulations, including those associated with ethno-graphic and 

cultural resources. 

6.4.3 Recreational Use Management in Wilderness 

Recreational uses of National Park Service wilderness are generally those traditionally 

associated with wilderness and identified by Congress in the legislative record for the 

development of the Wilderness Act and in keeping with the language provided by sections 

2(a) and 2(c) of the Act itself (16 USC 1131 (a) and (c)). These recreational uses of 

wilderness will be of a type and nature that ensure that its use and enjoyment will leave it 

unimpaired for future use and enjoyment as wilderness, provide for the protection of the area 

as wilderness, and provide for the preservation of wilderness character. Recreational uses in 

National Park Service wilderness areas will be of a nature that enable the areas to retain their 

primeval character and influence; protect and preserve natural conditions; leave the imprint of 

man’s work substantially unnoticeable; provide outstanding opportunities for solitude or 

primitive and unconfined types of recreation; and preserve wilderness in an unimpaired 

condition. 

6.4.3.1 Recreation Use Evaluation 

Recreational uses—particularly new and emerging activities, that compromise the stated 

purposes and definitions of wilderness or unduly impact the wilderness resource or the visitor 

experience within wilderness—will be evaluated to determine if these uses are appropriate, or 

should be limited or disallowed through use of the superintendent’s compendium in 36 

CFR 1.5. Evaluation or re-evaluation should be accomplished within wilderness management 

plans or similar implementation plans. Recreational uses that do not meet the purposes and 

definitions of wilderness should be prohibited in NPS wilderness. 

Significant changes in patterns or increased levels of use will not be authorized by special 

permit, administrative discretion, or authorities under the superintendents’ compendia, except 

in cases where sufficient information exists to adequately determine there is no significant 

impact on wilderness resources and values, including visitor experiences. These increased 

levels of use and changes in patterns of existing use will normally not qualify for a 

categorical exclusion under NEPA. Decisions regarding significant changes in patterns and 

new levels of use will require environmental analysis and review, including opportunity for 

public comment, in accordance with the requirements of NEPA. 

6.4.3.3 Use of Motorized Equipment 

Public use of motorized equipment or any form of mechanical transport will be prohibited in 

wilderness except as provided for in specific legislation. Operating a motor vehicle or 

possessing a bicycle in designated wilderness outside Alaska is prohibited (see NPS 

regulations in 36 CFR 4. 30(d)(1)). 

However, section 4(d)(1) of the Wilderness Act (16 USC 1133(d)(1)) authorizes the 

Secretary, where legislation designating the wilderness specifically makes this provision 

applicable, to allow the continuation of motorboat and aircraft use under certain 

circumstances in which those activities were established prior to wilderness designation. 

Section 4(d)(1) gives the Secretary the discretion to manage and regulate the activity in 

accordance with the Wilderness Act, the NPS Organic Act, and individual park enabling 

legislation. As authorized, the National Park Service will administer this use to be compatible 

with the purpose, character, and resource values of the particular wilderness area involved. 

The use of motorized equipment by the public in wilderness areas in Alaska is governed by 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 67

applicable provisions of ANILCA, NPS regulations in 36 CFR part 13, and Department of the 

Interior regulations in 43 CFR part 36. The specific conditions under which motorized 

equipment may be used by the public will be outlined in each park’s wilderness management 

plan. 

6.4.6 Existing Private Rights 

Wilderness designation does not extinguish valid existing private rights (e. g., fee-simple 

interest, less-than-fee-simple interest, valid mineral operations, rights-of-way, grazing 

permits). The validity of private rights within wilderness must be determined on a case-bycase basis. Valid private rights in wilderness must be administered in keeping with the 

specific conditions and requirements of the valid right. 

3. NPS Management Policies Relating to Recreational Use 

8.2.2 Recreational Activities 

The National Park Service will encourage, allow, or not allow recreational activities 

according to the criteria listed in section 8.2. Examples of recreational activities that may be 

encouraged or allowed include, but are not limited to, boating, camping, bicycling, fishing, 

hiking, horseback riding and packing, outdoor sports, picnicking, scuba diving, cross-country 

skiing, caving, mountain and rock climbing, and swimming. However, not all of these 

activities will be appropriate or allowable in all parks; that determination must be made on 

the basis of park-specific planning. Service-wide regulations addressing aircraft use, off-road 

bicycling, hang gliding, off-road vehicle use, personal watercraft, and snowmobiling require 

that special, park-specific regulations be developed before these uses may be allowed in 

parks. (Somewhat different statutory and regulatory provisions apply to snowmobile, 

motorboat, and aircraft use in units of the national park system in Alaska.) 

8.2.2.5 Fishing 

Recreational fishing will be allowed in parks when it is authorized, or not specifically 

prohibited, by federal law, provided that it does not jeopardize natural aquatic ecosystems or 

riparian zones. When fishing is allowed, it will be conducted in accordance with applicable 

federal laws and treaty rights, and state laws and regulations. The Service may restrict fishing 

activities whenever necessary to achieve management objectives outlined in a park’s resource 

management plan or to otherwise protect park resources or public safety, unless such 

restrictions would violate a federal law or treaty. Before the Service issues regulations or 

other restrictions, representatives of appropriate tribes and state and federal agencies will be 

consulted to ensure that all available scientific data is considered in the decisionmaking 

process. Any such regulations or other restrictions will be developed with public 

involvement. 

Commercial fishing will be allowed only when specifically authorized by federal law or 

treaty right. 

PARK SPECIFIC LEGISLATION 

1. Enabling Legislation 

North Cascades National Park (16 U.S.C. § 90) 

In order to preserve for the benefit, use, and inspiration of present and future generations 

certain majestic mountain scenery, snow fields, glaciers, alpine meadows, and other unique 
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68 DRAFT MOUNTAIN LAKES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

natural features in the North Cascade Mountains of the State of Washington, there is hereby 

established, subject to valid existing rights, the North Cascades National Park (hereinafter 

referred to in this Act as the “park”). The park shall consist of the lands, waters, and interests 

therein within the area designated “national park” on the map entitled “Proposed 

Management Units, North Cascades, Washington,” numbered NP-CAS-7002, and dated 

October 1967. The map shall be on file and available for public inspection in the office of the 

Director, National Park Service, Department of the Interior, and in the office of the Chief, 

Forest Service, Department of Agriculture. 

Ross Lake National Recreation Area (16 U.S.C. § 90a) 

In order to provide for the public outdoor recreation use and enjoyment of portions of the 

Skagit River and Ross, Diablo, and Gorge Lakes, together with the surrounding lands, and for 

the conservation of the scenic, scientific, historic, and other values contributing to public 

enjoyment of such lands and waters, there is hereby established, subject to valid existing 

rights, the Ross Lake National Recreation Area (hereinafter referred to in this Act as the 

“recreation area”). The recreation area shall consist of the lands and waters within the area 

designated “Ross Lake National Recreation Area” on the map referred to in section 101 of 

this Act. 

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area (16 U.S.C., § 90b) 

In order to provide for the public outdoor recreation use and enjoyment of portions of the 

Stehekin River and Lake Chelan, together with the surrounding lands, and for the 

conservation of the scenic, scientific, historic, and other values contributing to public 

enjoyment of such lands and waters, there is hereby established, subject to valid existing 

rights, the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area (hereinafter referred to in this Act as the 

“recreation area”). The recreation area shall consist of the lands and waters within the area 

designated “Lake Chelan National Recreation Area” on the map referred to in section 101 of 

this Act. 

2. Washington Parks Wilderness Act of 1988 (100 P.L. 668) 

An Act 

To designate wilderness within Olympic National Park, Mount Rainier National Park, and 

North Cascades National Park Service Complex in the State of Washington, and for other 

purposes. 

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in 

Congress assembled, That this Act may be cited as the “Washington Park Wilderness Act of 

1988”. 

TITLE II: NORTH CASCADES NATIONAL PARK 

SERVICE COMPLEX WILDERNESS SEC. 201. DESIGNATION 

(a) WILDERNESS. -- In furtherance of the purposes of the Wilderness Act, certain lands in 

the North Cascades National Park, Ross Lake National Recreation Area, and Lake Chelan 

National Recreation Area, Washington, which – 

(1) comprise approximately six hundred and thirty-four thousand six hundred and fourteen 

acres of wilderness, and approximately five thousand two hundred and twenty-six acres of 

potential wilderness additions, and (2) are depicted on a map entitled “Wilderness Boundary, 

North Cascades National Park Service Complex, Washington”, numbered 168-60-186 and 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 69

dated August 1988, are hereby designated as wilderness and therefore as components of the 

National Wilderness Preservation System. Such lands shall be known as the Stephen Mather 

Wilderness. 

Sec. 205. Renewable Natural Resource Use in Recreation Areas 

Section 402(a) of the Act of October 2, 1968 (82 Stat. 928; 16 U.S.C. 90c-1) is hereby 

amended to read as follows: 

“The Secretary shall administer the recreation areas in a manner which in his judgment will 

best provide for (1) public outdoor recreation benefits and (2) conservation of scenic, 

scientific, historic, and other values contributing to public enjoyment. Within that portion of 

the Lake Chelan National Recreation Area which is not designated as wilderness, such 

management, utilization, and disposal of renewable natural resources and the continuation of 

existing uses and developments as will promote, or are compatible with, or do not 

significantly impair public recreation and conservation of the scenic, scientific, historic, or 

other values contributing to public enjoyment, are authorized. In administering the recreation 

areas, the Secretary may utilize such statutory authorities pertaining to the administration of 

the national park system, and such statutory authorities otherwise available to him for the 

conservation and management of natural resources as he deems appropriate for recreation and 

preservation purposes and for resource development compatible therewith. Within the Ross 

Lake National Recreation Area the removal and disposal of trees within power line rights-ofway are authorized as necessary to protect transmission lines, towers, and equipment;”: 

Provided, That to the extent practicable, such removal and disposal of trees shall be 

conducted in such a manner as to protect scenic viewsheds.” 

Sec. 206. Mineral Resource Use in Recreation Areas 

Section 402(b) of the Act of October 2, 1968 (82 Stat. 928; 16 U.S.C. 90c-1b) is hereby 

amended to read as follows: 

“The lands within the recreation areas, subject to valid existing rights, are hereby withdrawn 

from all forms of appropriation or disposal under the public land laws, including location, 

entry, and patent under the United States mining laws, and disposition under the United 

States mineral leasing laws: Provided, however, That within that portion of the Lake Chelan 

National Recreation Area which is not designated as wilderness, sand, rock and gravel may 

be made available for sale to the residents of Stehekin for local use so long as such sale and 

disposal does not have significant adverse effects on the administration of the Lake Chelan 

National Recreation Area.” 

WASHINGTON STATE FISHING REGULATIONS 

The following information is a summary of the 2004 Washington State freshwater fishing regulations. 

The entire pamphlet can be found at, http://www.wa.gov/wdfw/fish/regs/fishregs.htm 
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70 DRAFT MOUNTAIN LAKES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

G ENERAL R ULES

• A fishing license is required for all persons 15 years or older; licenses must be carried when fishing. 

• Catch record cards are required for everyone fishing for: Salmon, Sturgeon, Steelhead, Dungeness 

Crab, and Halibut. 

• There is a prohibition against using live fish for game fish bait. 

• There is a prohibition against using any chemical irritant to harvest fish. 

F RESHWATER R ULES

• Hook and line angling only. Barbed or barbless hooks may be used, and a hook may be single, 

double, or treble, but not more than one line with up to three hooks per angler may be used.

• Single barbless hooks are required in areas designated as ‘fly fishing only’ or ‘selective gear rules.’

• All fishing gear must be kept in immediate control and may not be left unattended while fishing. 

Rodholders may be used but the rod must be easily removed without delay; rod may be left in holder 

while playing the fish. Downriggers may be used if the line releases from the downrigger while 

playing and landing the fish.

• A club or dipnet may be used to assist landing a legal fish taken by legal gear. A gaff hook may not 

be used.

• It is unlawful to chum or broadcast any substance to attract game fish, unless specifically authorized 

by special rules.

• Where use of bait is prohibited, or where lures or flies are used voluntarily, game fish may be caught 

and released until the daily limit is retained. If any fish has swallowed the hook or is hooked in the 

gill, eye, or tongue, it should be kept if legal to do so.

S EASONS

• Freshwater areas are open 24 hours per day when open.

• Lakes, ponds, and reservoirs are open to fishing for game fish (except Dolly Varden/Bull Trout and 

grass carp) year-round. 

• Rivers, streams, and beaver ponds are open to fishing for game fish (except Dolly Varden/Bull Trout 

and grass carp) June 1 to October 31.

• An ‘open’ listing does not authorize anglers to trespass on private property. 

STATEWIDE FRESHWATER SPECIES RULES 

• Cutthroat, Lake, and Golden Trout 
Appendix D

ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT STATEMENT 71

− In rivers, streams and beaver ponds minimum size is 8 inches. Daily limit is two. When fishing 

with bait, all trout (except steelhead) equal to or greater than the minimum size are counted as 

part of the daily limit whether kept or released. 

− In lakes, ponds and reservoirs no minimum size. Daily limit is five. When fishing with bait, all 

trout (except steelhead) equal to or greater than the minimum size are counted as part of the daily 

limit whether kept or released. 

• Eastern Brook Trout 

− In rivers no minimum size. Daily limit is five. Anglers may keep up to five Eastern Brook Trout, 

but no more than five trout total, and no more than two can be other trout species. 

• Dolly Varden/Bull Trout 

− When listed as open under the special rules, count as part of the trout combined daily limit for 

rivers and lakes. 

W ESTSIDE R IVERS S PECIAL R ULES

Special Regulations

Water Season Species 

Catch 

Limita,b

Minimum 

Size Special Regulations 

Big Beaver Creek

(Beaver ponds and tributary 

streams) 

July 1 – Oct 31 All gamefishc

 — — Catch and release only. 

From 1/4 mile marker 

upstream 

 Selective Gear Rulesd

Big Beaver Creek

(Beaver ponds and tributary 

streams) 

(Ross Lake to 1/4 mile 

upstream) 

Closed Waters

Cascade River June 1 – Feb 

29 

Troute

 2 14 inches 

 Dolly Varden — 20 inches 

 Other gamefish Statewide Statewide 

Legal to retain Dolly 

Varden/bull trout as 

part of the Trout catch 

limit. 

Hozomeen Lake July 1 – Oct 31 All gamefish Statewide Statewide 

Newhalem Ponds Closed Waters

Nooksack River Nov 1 – Mar 15 Trout 2 14 inches Wild steelhead release. 

Ross Lake July 1 – Oct 31 Trout 3 13 inches 

 All gamefish Statewide Statewide 

Selective Gear Rules, 

except motors allowed. 

All tributaries are 

closed from lake to 

1 mile upstream, 

except see special 

rules for Big Beaver 

Creek and Ruby Creek. 

Ruby Creek Closed Waters

Skagit River

(Bacon Creek to Gorge 

Powerhouse) 

June 1 – Feb 

29 

Trout 2 14 inches 

 Dolly Varden — 20 inches 

 Steelhead — — 

 Other gamefish Statewide Statewide 

Legal to retain Dolly 

Varden/bull trout as 

part of the catch limit. 

All species night 

closure and nonbuoyant lure restriction 

July 1 – Nov 30. 
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72 DRAFT MOUNTAIN LAKES FISHERY MANAGEMENT PLAN

Water Season Species 

Catch 

Limita,b

Minimum 

Size Special Regulations 

Skagit River

(Gorge Powerhouse to Dam) Closed Waters

Stehekin River

(Mouth to Agnes Creek) 

Mar 1 – June 

30 

All gamefish 0 — Game fish catch and 

release only, Selective 

Gear Rules. 

 July 1 – Oct 31 Trout 2 15 inches Release Cutthroat, 

Selective Gear Rules. 

 Other gamefish Statewide Statewide Selective Gear Rules. 

Stetattle Creek Closed Waters

Trapper Lake Year around Trout 2 None 

 Other gamefish Statewide Statewide 

Notes: 

a. Possession limit for game fish is two daily limits in any form. 

b. The combined daily limit for anglers that fish in both rivers and lakes on the same day is five trout. In the combined daily limit, only 

two trout may be from rivers, except as provided for Eastern brook trout. 

c. Game fish = bass, tiger muskellunge, walleye, whitefish, burbot, catfish, crappie, northern pike, peamouth chub, perch, suckers, 

sunfish, bullfrogs, and all trout. 

d. Selective Gear Rules = Only unscented artificial flies or lures with one single barbless hook are allowed. Up to a total of three 

artificial flies or lures containing single barbless hooks may be used. Bait is prohibited; fish may be released until the daily limit is 

retained. No one may fish from any floating device equipped with a motor except where specifically allowed under Special Rules for 

individual waters. If any fish has swallowed the hook or is hooked in the gill, eye, or tongue, it should be kept if legal to do so. 

e. Trout = grayling, kokanee, brown, rainbow, golden, cutthroat, and lake.