Region 2-Southcentral News Release
(Released: July 21, 2005)
ALASKA DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME
Wayne Regelin, Commissioner
DIVISION OF SPORT FISH
Kelly Hepler, Director
Contact:
Dave Rutz
Area Management Biologist
Phone: (907) 746-6300
July 21, 2005
SOCKEYE SALMON FISHERY RESTRICTED TO CATCH AND RELEASE ONLY
Beginning Sunday, July 24, at 12:01 a.m., anglers may not keep or possess sockeye (red) salmon in the entire Susitna River drainage, which is described as Susitna River Units 1-6, on page 45 of the 2005 Southcentral Alaska sport fishing regulation booklet.
Anglers must immediately release any sockeye salmon caught while fishing for other species. Popular sockeye salmon systems in the Susitna River drainage include Larson Creek (Talkeetna River drainage), the Talachulitna River and Hewitt, Lake, and Shell creeks.
Sockeye salmon escapement for the Susitna River drainage as measured by the Yentna River sonar project is approximately 8,600 through July 20. The Yentna River accounts for approximately 50% of the sockeye salmon returning to the Susitna River drainage. On average, approximately 45% of the escapement has passed the sonar by July 20. At this time the total sockeye salmon escapement is projected to be approximately 20,000 fish, well below the escapement goal range of 90,000 to 160,000 fish.
Sport fishing for salmon, other than sockeye and king salmon, remains open.
