The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has postponed the opening of fishing on the Dungeness River until Oct. 16 because of low stream flow, state officials said earlier this week.

The affected closure includes the Dungeness from the mouth upstream to the hatchery intake pipe at river mile 11.3.

Flow in the Dungeness River is well below the average flow for early October, state officials said, leaving Dungeness Chinook salmon, an Endangered Species Act-listed stock within the Puget Sound area, particularly susceptible to disturbance during their spawning activities.

State officials anticipate a rainfall sufficient to restore the Dungeness’ stream flow and draw coho salmon into the river will happen by Oct. 16; otherwise, the closure may be extended.

Fishers must have a current Washington fishing license. Check the state’s “Fishing in Washington” rules pamphlet for details on definitions and regulations.

Check the state fishing hotline for the latest rule information at 360-902-2500; press 2 for recreational rules.