While some parts of Bristol Bay have had record-breaking years, one South Peninsula village hasn't been as lucky. After a year and a half of bad runs, Chignik Bay is worried about the survival of the community.
Forecasting the salmon run is an evolving science. This year, there is a 5 million-fish gap between the ADF&G and UW sockeye salmon forecasts this year. Here’s why.
The annual Bristol Bay Fish Expo in Naknek continued for the third year in a row. And from brailer makers and processors to local history projects, it is fast becoming a must for people in the fishing industry.
By getting an examination before heading out for the season, fishermen can make sure that their boats will easily pass inspection if they get boarded by the Coast Guard at sea.
Fishing has gotten off to a slow start along the Alaska Peninsula. This is particularly worrying for people who live and fish in the Chignik management area – because last summer, those communities saw the worst sockeye run since statehood.
According to ADF&G, the hefty purse seine harvest is due to a recent change in gear type allocation. That change shifted an additional 10 percent of the quota to the purse seine fleet.
The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is predicting an early start for the sac roe herring fishery. But warm temperatures have made it difficult for biologists to accurately estimate when the fishery will open.
