The Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC) has developed three potential plans for ocean salmon seasons commencing on May 16. Among these alternatives, two involve short ocean salmon season periods with limited harvest quotas for both commercial and sport fishing activities along California’s coast for the rest of the year. Conversely, the third alternative proposes the closure of ocean fisheries off California for the second consecutive year.
The decision to present these options stems from the impact of several years of drought experienced over the past decade. Consequently, the forecasted abundance levels of key California salmon target stocks for 2024, while higher than the previous year, remain significantly below average. For instance, the projected abundance for Sacramento River Fall Chinook is estimated at 213,600 adults, while Klamath River Fall Chinook abundance is forecasted at 180,700 adults. At such reduced levels, the Pacific Coast Salmon Fishery Management Plan mandates strict limitations on fishing activities to ensure that the majority of the adult population can return to the river for spawning.
The proposed commercial fishing alternatives suggest a few small quota fisheries, with vessel-based weekly trip limits implemented during each open period. Additionally, in-season measures would be enforced to close remaining season dates should the...
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