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Districts Affected: Upper Yukon River
The Pilot Station sonar passage estimate through August 29 for fall chum salmon is 211,000 fish, which is well below the average of 644,000 for this date. The estimated coho salmon passage is 174,000, which is above the average of 126,000 fish for this date. The fall chum salmon run has not materialized as expected with the current sonar passage estimate as the lowest on record for this date since 1995. The Yukon River Drainage Fall Chum Salmon Management Plan specifies a minimum drainage wide escapement goal of 300,000 fall chum salmon. With over 80% of the fall chum salmon run typically in the Yukon River by this date, it is becoming less likely of achieving a run size greater than 300,000 fish with each passing day. Furthermore, the Tanana River fall chum salmon stocks are anticipated to be weak based on run assessment and genetic information.

Therefore, in accordance with the salmon management plan, Personal Use salmon fishing on the Tanana River is being closed in an effort to achieve fall chum salmon escapement goals and provide a subsistence priority. Beginning 12:00 noon, Wednesday, September 2, Personal Use salmon fishing in Subdistrict 6-C will close until further notice.

For a recording of the current fishing schedule for your area call toll free 1-866-479-7387 or in Fairbanks 459-7387. If you have any questions regarding this report, please call the Alaska Department of Fish and Game office in Fairbanks at 459-7274.

This has been an announcement by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.