Monday, June 9, 2014

Kenai River Salmon Fishing Orders

By Sally Delacruz


For another year, there will be restricted Salmon fishing On Kenai River. The ban is repeated 50 years after the first such action in 1964 and 1965. Authorities seek to protect the number of kings along the network. The alert has been issued in good time so that sporting enthusiasts can find alternatives. The department concerned with fishing wants to boost the number of kings in order to guarantee survival.

50 years after the first Kenai River Salmon fishing ban for two years in a row in 1964 and 1965, a slight change has been introduced. The runs take effect before the beginning of the season. This gives room for enthusiasts to look for alternatives and avoid disruptions when emergency orders are issued.

The ban extends to Little Sustina, Kaslof, Anchor and Sustina rivers. Their tributaries are also covered by the restricting order. This ban took effect from Thursday 1st and extends to 30th June. The restrictions change from 1st July to accommodate people fishing past Slikok Creek. These are the same restrictions put in place last year.

The dates when the restrictions take effect have been pushed forward. It should be taken as good news to fishing enthusiasts since they can plan accordingly. The department has been observing trends and found it prudent to take such measures.

The order last year allowed enthusiasts to catch and release the fish. This is not allowed this year. The authorities insist that there are no fish or those available will not be enough. They seek to ensure that balance in the ecosystem is maintained. A higher number offers the assurance that the kings will remain in the area.

Normal figures for the area range from 5,300 to 9,000 Kings during the early run. This year, they project a lower number of around 2,200. This means that strict measures must be taken if the survival of kings is to be guaranteed. Without such measures, their population will be depleted beyond help.

Closure before the beginning of the season was also witnessed in 1965. A repetition of this trend is informed by the strong numbers reported then. Orders for the late run are yet to be issued as authorities want to observe if the trend will change.

Kasilof river offers an option if they are from hatcheries. There is a way to distinguish the two types of fish. Authorities have banned the use of single hooks and baits along this river. The hatchery bag has also been restricted.

Anchor River offers a limit of two salmons in a year. Their size is restricted to 20 inches and beyond. Sport fishing is not allowed on Wednesdays. Un-baited and single hooks are not allowed as well. Similar restrictions apply to drainage areas for these rivers.

The arrival of kings and fishermen later than usual during the last season is blamed on the chilly weather. The date for affecting the ban has been pushed to 1st from 15th May. This will increase the survival rate for the early run. The restrictions are relaxed with time if the situation changes.




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