During the Fraser Panel call today, the run size for pink salmon was reduced
from the previous provisional run size of 4.8 million to 4.5 million with
August 23 run timing. The most recent pink stock identification samples
analyzed for Areas 12 and 20 purse seine test fisheries indicate Fraser origin
pink salmon comprise 75% and 71%, respectively. Based on a pink run size of 4.5
million the US total allowable catch has been achieved during the most recent
fisheries.
The Department is receiving questions regarding the possibility of recreational
fishery openings for chinook and/or pink salmon in the Fraser River. At this
time management measures in place are aimed at limiting impacts on Fraser
sockeye while allowing First Nations food, social and ceremonial fisheries,
directed on other species, to occur. DFO will continue to monitor the
migration of sockeye through the marine areas and the Fraser River and will
consider an opening for pink salmon when it is determined that impacts of an in-
river recreational fishery would be minimal for sockeye. As Late Run sockeye
can demonstrate holding behaviour in the lower river and off the river mouth,
such an opportunity is likely not to occur in the immediate future. Due to
significantly reduced FSC harvest for First Nations this year, with very low
harvests of both sockeye and chinook to date, DFO is not considering opening
additional recreational chinook fisheries in the river at this time to provide
for priority access for First Nations FSC fisheries. For information on
current recreational fishery opportunities for chinook in other areas please