(Palmer) - In an effort to maximize the coho salmon escapement in the Deshka River, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is prohibiting the retention of coho salmon in the Deshka River, including all waters within a one-half mile radius of its confluence with the Susitna River effective 12:01 a.m. Thursday, August 21 through 11:59 p.m. through the remainder of the year. The use of bait continues to be prohibited. Gear is restricted to unbaited, artificial lures, meaning treble hooks or two hooks may be used.

“Unfortunately, coho salmon counts did not improve over the last week and it is unlikely that the escapement goal of 10,200-24,100 coho salmon will be achieved this season,” stated Palmer Area Management Biologist Samantha Oslund. “As of August 18, only 831 coho salmon had passed upstream of the weir and the escapement is projected to be 1,126 fish. Therefore, it is warranted to conserve the remaining coho salmon returning to the Deshka River.”

For additional information, please contact Area Management Biologist Samantha Oslund at (907) 746-6300.

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