King Salmon fishing along Kenai River faces restrictions once again like it happened last year. The trend of restricting the sport was repeated after 50 years with the aim of retaining most of them within the ecosystem. Enthusiasts are advised to look for alternatives. The Fishery Department is confident that the measures will raise their numbers.
Such closure for two consecutive years was last witnessed in 1964 and 1965. The trend is different from last year since the Kenai River Salmon fishing restrictions take effect before the season begins. This should be considered good news since enthusiasts have a chance to find alternatives. Prior notice ensures that their plans and expectations are not put into disarray.
Other rivers affected by the ban include Kaslof, Little Sustina, Sustina and Anchor rivers. Similar activity is also restricted along their tributaries. The period of the ban extends from Thursday May 1st to June 30th. Beyond July 1st restrictions similar to those that were given last year will be in place. Retentions are only allowed for kings caught past the Slikok Creek.
The closure is different since it comes before the season begins. According to the Department of Fish and Game, enthusiasts can make alternative plans to avoid disappointment. This move is bold and informed by years of observation.
Last year, the rules allowed sporting fans to catch and later release the fish. The provision is not there anymore. This is because of declining numbers. Allowing the trend to continue endangers the population of this species in the area.
The region is estimated to attract between 5,300 and 9,000 early run Kings. Authorities insist that the forecast for this year is lower since it is not expected to surpass 2,500 kings. The actual figure they expect is 2,200. This explains why restrictions are put in place. It safeguards the population within the region.
In 1965, the rivers were also closed before the season began. This trend will be repeated this year. The figures for the late run for Kenai River are also not clear. Authorities have refrained from issuing orders yet as they observe what happens.
The bold step to close the rivers calls to mind what happened 50 years ago. The simple act of closing the areas for the sport led to a huge increase in population. Only hatchery fishing is allowed on Kasilof River with clear distinctions between those caught in the natural environment and home bread. Baits are not allowed as well as single hooks. There is a bag limit even for the hatchery fish.
Restrictions along Anchor River dictate that only two king salmons can be caught. They must be 20 inches or more. Sport fishing has also been banned on Wednesdays. Single and unbaited hooks have also been banned. These restrictions affect the drainage for the rivers as well.
Last season, fishermen and the kings arrived later than expected because of weather dynamics. The ban takes effect on 1st and not 15th of May like last year. This is aimed at protecting the early run. As the season progresses, the ban is lifted or relaxed depending on the number of arriving kings. Sport enthusiast can make alternative plans since the restrictions have been announced earlier.
Such closure for two consecutive years was last witnessed in 1964 and 1965. The trend is different from last year since the Kenai River Salmon fishing restrictions take effect before the season begins. This should be considered good news since enthusiasts have a chance to find alternatives. Prior notice ensures that their plans and expectations are not put into disarray.
Other rivers affected by the ban include Kaslof, Little Sustina, Sustina and Anchor rivers. Similar activity is also restricted along their tributaries. The period of the ban extends from Thursday May 1st to June 30th. Beyond July 1st restrictions similar to those that were given last year will be in place. Retentions are only allowed for kings caught past the Slikok Creek.
The closure is different since it comes before the season begins. According to the Department of Fish and Game, enthusiasts can make alternative plans to avoid disappointment. This move is bold and informed by years of observation.
Last year, the rules allowed sporting fans to catch and later release the fish. The provision is not there anymore. This is because of declining numbers. Allowing the trend to continue endangers the population of this species in the area.
The region is estimated to attract between 5,300 and 9,000 early run Kings. Authorities insist that the forecast for this year is lower since it is not expected to surpass 2,500 kings. The actual figure they expect is 2,200. This explains why restrictions are put in place. It safeguards the population within the region.
In 1965, the rivers were also closed before the season began. This trend will be repeated this year. The figures for the late run for Kenai River are also not clear. Authorities have refrained from issuing orders yet as they observe what happens.
The bold step to close the rivers calls to mind what happened 50 years ago. The simple act of closing the areas for the sport led to a huge increase in population. Only hatchery fishing is allowed on Kasilof River with clear distinctions between those caught in the natural environment and home bread. Baits are not allowed as well as single hooks. There is a bag limit even for the hatchery fish.
Restrictions along Anchor River dictate that only two king salmons can be caught. They must be 20 inches or more. Sport fishing has also been banned on Wednesdays. Single and unbaited hooks have also been banned. These restrictions affect the drainage for the rivers as well.
Last season, fishermen and the kings arrived later than expected because of weather dynamics. The ban takes effect on 1st and not 15th of May like last year. This is aimed at protecting the early run. As the season progresses, the ban is lifted or relaxed depending on the number of arriving kings. Sport enthusiast can make alternative plans since the restrictions have been announced earlier.
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