Thursday May 2, 2024
The Cordova Times —
State fisheries biologists are forecasting a Copper River District run of 1.3 million sockeyes and 202,000 coho salmon this summer, with the sockeye forecast at 46% above the 10-year average of 893,000 fish.
The first announcement for the Copper River District will be issued between May 1 and May 8, said state fishery biologists based in Cordova.
Based on recent poor Chinook and sockeye salmon production, a conservative management is planned at the start of the season. For Chinook salmon conservation the inside closure area as defined in state statutes will be closed during early season fishing periods. The Copper River Chinook salmon total run forecast of 47,000 fish is 2% below the 10-year average of 48,000 kings.
Beginning in early to mid-August, when coho salmon harvest becomes predominant, the Copper and Bering River districts will be managed for cohos, fisheries officials said.