Fish and wildlife departments in Oregon and Washington are closing recreational salmon and steelhead fisheries in the Columbia River.  Washington’s closure is now in effect, while Oregon’s goes into effect at the end of Thursday.  Oregon and Washington jointly manage fisheries in the mainstem Columbia River bordering both states and seek to have concurrent regulations.   At this time, other ongoing fisheries in Oregon remain unchanged, and fishing for species other than salmon and steelhead will still be allowed in Oregon portions of the Columbia River as described in permanent agency rules.  Anglers are reminded to follow the rules for social distancing and maintain at least 6 feet distance from other people and minimize non-essential travel, as directed in an executive order issued earlier this week by Oregon Gov. Kate Brown.  The Columbia River salmon and steelhead fishing closure will lasting until at least April 8.