The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has announced that the retention of king salmon will be prohibited in Southeast Alaska waters for the upcoming fishing season. In an effort to protect the declining king salmon population, the new regulation will be in effect from January 1st through December 31st, 2022.
According to the department, the decision to prohibit the retention of king salmon was made after data showed a decrease in the number of returning kings in recent years. The regulation aims to conserve the king salmon population and ensure its sustainability for future generations.
Anglers who catch king salmon in Southeast Alaska waters during the upcoming fishing season will be required to release them immediately. The retention prohibition applies to all types of fishing gear, including sport, commercial, and subsistence fishing.
The department is also encouraging anglers to practice catch-and-release fishing for other species, such as halibut and lingcod, to help protect the overall marine ecosystem in Southeast Alaska waters.
While the retention prohibition may be disappointing for some anglers, it is essential in order to protect the king salmon population and allow it to recover. The department will continue to monitor the king salmon population and its health in Southeast Alaska waters to determine if additional conservation measures are needed in the future.
Anglers are reminded to check the latest fishing regulations and updates from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game before heading out on their fishing trips in Southeast Alaska waters. By working together to protect the king salmon population, we can help ensure a sustainable future for this iconic species in Alaska’s waters.
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