(Kodiak) - The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is increasing the bag and possession limit for sockeye salmon from two to five fish in the Buskin River drainage.

In the Buskin River drainage the combined bag limit for salmon (other than king salmon) is five fish, 20 inches or greater in length. Any combination of sockeye, chum and pink salmon may be harvested to reach the five fish bag and possession limit. Two coho salmon may be harvested as part of the combined salmon bag limit through September 15. From September 16 through December 31 one coho salmon may be harvested as part of the combined salmon bag limit. This regulatory change is effective 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, June 18 through 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, December 31, 2025.

Through June 15, a total of 3,742 sockeye salmon have passed the Buskin River weir. The escapement goal for sockeye salmon into Buskin Lake is 5,000 to 8,000 fish and typically 29% of the run has occurred by this date. Based on the current weir counts and recent history of this run, sockeye salmon are projected to exceed the upper end of escapement goal range.

“The 2025 Buskin River sockeye run is off to an excellent start and is well ahead of several recent years that have exceeded the escapement goal. Given the current weir counts and many recent years that have exceeded the escapement goal it is warranted to increase the limit for sport fishing.” stated Area Management Biologist Tyler Polum.

For additional information, please contact Area Management Biologist Tyler Polum at (907) 486-1880.

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