(Kodiak) - Beginning 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 14, 2017, through August 9, 2017, king salmon in the Chignik River drainage downstream to Mensis Point, may not be retained or possessed and this fishery will remain open to catch-and-release only. King salmon that are caught may not be removed from the water and must be released immediately. As an added measure to reduce the probability of hooking mortality, the use of bait is prohibited within the Chignik River drainage, and only one unbaited, single-hook, artificial lure may be used.

The biological escapement goal (BEG) for king salmon in the Chignik River drainage is 1,300 to 2,700 fish. The weir count as of July 10, 2017, was 352 king salmon, which is well below average for this date. Based on historical run timing, the current projected total escapement indicates that the BEG may not be achieved. In order to conserve king salmon escapement, the inriver king salmon sport fishery is being restricted to catch-and-release only, and only one unbaited, single-hook, artificial lure may be used.

For more information, contact the Kodiak Division of Sport Fish Office at (907) 486-1880.

#17-2463