Susitna River, Ship Creek Coho Limits Increased

(Palmer) – Due to a large run of coho salmon into the Susitna River drainage, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G) is increasing the bag and possession limit for coho salmon, 16 inches or greater in length, to four per day and eight in possession in all waters open to salmon fishing in the Susitna River drainage, Units 1-6. However, no more than three per day and six in possession may be pink, chum, and sockeye salmon in combination. These provisions are effective 5:00 p.m. Tuesday, August 14 though 11:59 p.m., Monday, December 31, 2018.

“ADF&G has received positive reports from sport anglers and guides that they are experiencing above average catch rates across all clear water tributaries in the Susitna River drainage,” stated Area Management Biologist Sam Ivey. “This is a strong indicator of a large run of coho salmon; therefore, it is warranted to increase the bag and possession limits and allow anglers an opportunity to harvest additional coho salmon for the season.”

On August 12, 2018, the sustainable escapement goal for coho salmon was achieved in the Deshka River. The run is likely trending with late run timing models this season due to environmental factors that stalled fish passage earlier in August and the upper bound of the escapement goal is likely to be exceeded. Past studies indicate that the Deshka River coho salmon stock can comprise from 7 percent to
17 percent of the mainstem Susitna River total abundance. Given this information, it is likely the Susitna River is experiencing a well above average run of coho salmon.

For additional information, please contact Area Management Biologist Sam Ivey at (907) 746-6300.