Here is some great news for salmon anglers. Stronger than expect returns of summer run salmon to the upper Columbia River has prompted fishery managers to reopen Chinook fishing in select main stem pools and tributaries. Beginning on Wednesday, July 25th anglers can again retain hatchery adult Chinook from Rocky Reach Dam to Wells Dam, including the Wenatchee and Chelan Rivers. On August 1st fishing will be allowed from Wells Dam to Chief Joseph Dam, including the Okanogan and Similkameen rivers. The projected return of summer run salmon was downgraded from 67,000 to 44,000 earlier this month. However, with the projected passage over Priest Rapids Dam and the hatchery wild mark rates managers are now confident that there are surplus fish available for harvest. The area above Wells Dam is opening later to allow the Colville Tribe to gather brood stock for their hatchery below Chief Joseph Dam. Look for a news release from the Department of Fish and Wildlife for all the details soon.