(Kodiak) - The Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is reducing the bag and possession limits for sockeye salmon to two per day and two in possession in the Saltery River drainage. This regulatory change is effective 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 24 through 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, December 31, 2019.

Through the weekend, 7,058 sockeye salmon have passed the Saltery Creek weir, which is the lowest count on record for this date. The escapement goal for sockeye salmon into the Saltery River drainage is 15,000 to 30,000 fish. Typically, about 41% of the run has occurred by this date and restrictions are necessary to achieve the escapement goal.

“The Saltery sockeye salmon fishery is one of Kodiak’s most popular sport fisheries,” stated Area Management Biologist Tyler Polum. “With the warm temperatures and low water conditions we’re seeing the fish just aren’t moving into the river. Even considering late run timing we need to slow down harvest and get more sockeye to the lake for escapement.”

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

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