(Palmer) - In an effort to maximize the coho salmon escapement in the Little Susitna River, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is prohibiting the retention of coho salmon on the Little Susitna River from its mouth up to the Parks Highway effective 12:01 a.m. Thursday, August 21 through the remainder of the year. As a reminder, the waters upstream of the Parks Highway bridge are closed to all salmon fishing. 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 9,200-17,700 coho salmon will be achieved this season”, stated Area Management Biologist Sam Oslund. “As of August 18, only 2,960 coho salmon had passed upstream of the weir and the escapement is projected to be 4,239 fish. Therefore, it is warranted to conserve the remaining coho salmon returning to the Little Susitna River.”

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

#25-3942