(Palmer) - Anglers are advised that the Little Susitna River is closed to fishing for king salmon beginning Saturday, June 24, except on two consecutive three day weekends, Saturday - Monday, July 1 - July 3; and Saturday - Monday, July 8 - July 10. An annual limit of two king salmon 20 inches or greater in length remains in effect. The annual limit is five king salmon greater than 20 inches in Cook Inlet, of which only two may be from the Little Susitna River.

Emergency Order 2-KS-2-10-10 was issued preseason to restrict the annual limit to two king salmon over 20 inches in length in an effort to reduce harvest by up to 20% on the Little Susitna River. This strategy assumed a run size similar to below average runs experienced 2014–2016. To date, only 622 king salmon have passed the Little Susitna weir, which is located at approximately river mile 32.5 and four miles upstream of the Little Susitna Public Use Facility (LSPUF). The escapement goal for the Little Susitna is 2,100–4,300 king salmon based on the weir count. The run appears to be holding in the lower 30 miles of river and is susceptible to harvest. At this time, it is prudent to further restrict harvest until the run can be more fully assessed by weir. The Department will continue to monitor the run and take further restrictions if necessary.

For more information, contact Sam Ivey at (907) 746-6300.

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