Fishing with Rod Discussion Forum
Fishing in British Columbia => General Discussion => Topic started by: Rodney on July 11, 2017, 01:07:12 PM
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Tuesday, July 11, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, July 11 to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Very few sockeye have been caught to-date in Fraser River sockeye test fisheries. The Whonnock gillnet test fishery began on June 28, the Qualark gillnet test fishery began on July 1 and the Area 20 gillnet test fishery began on July 7. The Qualark and Mission hydroacoustics programs began July 1 and July 7, respectively. Assessments will improve later this week with the addition of Cottonwood and Area 12 gill net test fisheries.
On July 10, the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 4,976 cms, which is approximately 13% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 10 was 17.30C, which is 1.50C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area Waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Friday, July 14, 2017.
The first Weekly Report will follow the next scheduled Panel meeting.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/8324/july-11-2017.pdf
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The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, July 11, to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) provided forecasts of the 2017 Fraser River
sockeye and pink salmon abundance, timing and diversion rate to the Fraser
Panel. The majority of sockeye returning in 2017 will be recruits from adult
spawners in 2012 and 2013 both of which were low for their respective cycle
lines. The pink salmon return is also coming off a very poor brood year
escapement in 2015. DFO has advised that Fraser River sockeye and pink salmon
forecasts for 2017 are highly uncertain due to variability in annual survival
rates and uncertainty about changes in their productivity.
To put the sockeye run size forecast uncertainty into context, there is a one
in four chance that the actual number of returning sockeye will be at or below
2,338,000 fish (the 25% probability level forecast) and there is a one in four
chance that the actual number of returning sockeye will be at or above
8,873,000 fish (the 75% probability level forecast). For pre-season planning
purposes, the Panel used the 50% probability level forecast (equal chance of a
higher or lower return) of 4,432,000 fish for all management groups. This is
well below the cycle average of 8.5 million. The largest contributing stocks
for the 2017 return are expected to be the Chilko, Late Stuart, Stellako and
Harrison.
In the case of the pink forecast there is a one in four chance that the actual
number of returning pink salmon will be at or below 6,177,000 fish (the 25%
probability level forecast) and there is a one in four chance that the actual
number of returning sockeye will be at or above 12,353,000 fish (the 75%
probability level forecast). For pre-season planning purposes, the Panel used
the 50% probability level forecast (equal chance of a higher or lower return)
of 8,693,000 pinks. This is well below the cycle average of 12.4 million.
For 2017 pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel adopted Area 20 run
timing for Early Stuart and Chilko sockeye of July 1 and August 6 respectively,
both of which are slightly earlier than the recent median timing for each
stock. Timing for all other sockeye stocks was based on historical correlations
with the Early Stuart and Chilko timings mentioned above. For pink salmon the
pre-season adopted Area 20 run timing of August 28 is the historical median.
The pre-season forecast of the proportion of Fraser River sockeye and pink
salmon diverting their migration to the Fraser River through Johnstone Strait
is 51% and 50% respectively, which the Fraser Panel also adopted for planning
purposes.
The snow pack volume in most of the Fraser River watershed was above average in
May and June of this year with recent warm weather since mid-June resulting in
a near normal timed freshet in 2017. As such it is anticipated that water
levels will be near or slightly above average during the sockeye and pink
migration periods. This combined with above average forecast for air
temperatures has resulted in a prediction of water temperatures that are likely
to be slightly above average for July and August. Actual water temperatures and
discharge levels as well as fish condition will be monitored closely during the
2017 return to determine if migration issues are developing.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel has adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast conditions based on the May to June information for Early Summer and
Summers and anticipated river entry dates for Late run fish. Management
adjustments are additional fish that are removed from identified harvest levels
and allowed to migrate upstream in an attempt to assist in achievement of
identified spawner objectives for the different run timing groups. In-season
information over the coming weeks will help to inform future decisions on
management adjustments for the Early Summer and Summer management groups while
the Early Stuart and Late run management groups will be managed based on the
respective Low Abundance Exploitation Rate (LAER) for each group (10% for Early
Stuart and 20% for Lates). There will be no in-season estimates of management
adjustment for Early Stuart sockeye in 2017 as the forecast returns are very
low across most of the forecast range and it is anticipated they will be
managed to the LAER, with the expected outcome of a spawning escapement well
below target.
Gill net test fishing began in the Fraser River on June 28 at Whonnock and on
July 1 at Qualark Creek. In Area 20 the gillnet test fishery commenced
operations on July 7. Very few sockeye have been caught to date with early
stock identification analyses indicating the majority of the sockeye being
Early Stuart and Chilliwack. In-season assessment of Early Stuart sockeye will
be provided later in July once more information becomes available. In-season
assessment of all run timing groups generally occurs shortly after
identification of their peak migration through marine areas.
Currently, First Nations food, social and ceremonial (FSC) sockeye fisheries
have been restricted by a 4 week window closure to protect Early Stuart and
early timed Early Summer stocks, with limited fishing opportunities directed at
chinook with non-retention of sockeye. The start-up of sockeye directed FSC
fisheries is not anticipated before late July or Early August depending upon
location and will be based on the identification of sockeye TAC for Early
Summers or Summers. FSC fishers in marine approach areas as well as the Fraser
River are requested to check for the opening times and any restrictions in
their local area.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Friday, July 15, 2017.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Nener 604-666-0789
Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0644
Sent July 12, 2017 at 0944
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Typically Fraser river returns are similar to the skeena. Skeena was horrible so, I don't think there will be an opening for Sockeye this year. I also doubt the Diversion rate will be 50/50, in the past 3 years its been like 70/30 with them going for the colder inside waters.
Fraser Valley sport shops will be hurting
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weekly report lots to read, no good news as expected
http://www.psc.org/download/469/2017/8327/july-14-2017-2.pdf
http://www.psc.org/publications/fraser-panel-in-season-information/fraser-river-panel-weekly-reports/
The forecasts for Fraser sockeye management groups expected in 2017 has been a dominant factor in the development of
pre-season fishing plans. The forecasts for this year’s Early Stuart and Late-run returns are small enough for Canada’s
escapement plan to trigger the implementation of a low abundance exploitation rate (LAER) for these groups, which
limits harvest opportunities on co-migrating Early Summer and Summer-run sockeye salmon. Since 1996, the Late-run
group has demonstrated abnormally early upstream migration, relative to the historic timing. This abnormal migration
behavior continues to substantially reduce harvest opportunities on these stocks and on co-migrating Summer-run
sockeye and pink salmon. The implementation of the LAER will limit harvests to those that are incidental to fisheries
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directed on the more abundant Early Summer and Summer-run groups as well as pink salmon which are anticipated to
have harvestable surplus. Panel management objectives will place a high priority on achieving Fraser sockeye
escapement goals, including those for Early Stuart and Late-run sockeye. Given the constraints imposed by low returns
to these two management groups and the potential for adverse Fraser River conditions, pre-season plans were developed
which indicate that both Canada and the United States will be challenged to fully harvest their shares of total allowable
catches (TAC) of both Fraser River sockeye and pink salmon. Additional management actions may be taken by Canada
to protect Cultus and Sakinaw sockeye and Interior Fraser coho. Conservation concerns for other species and stocks
identified by Canada and the United States will be taken into account throughout the management season.
If in-season conditions are consistent with pre-season expectations, low impact fisheries would be expected to commence
in mid- to late July in Panel Waters. The actual start dates and duration of fisheries will depend on in-season estimates of
timing, abundance, diversion, and agreed management adjustments as well as concerns for other co-migrating species.
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Friday, July 14, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Friday, July 14 to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Test fishery catches continue to be low. At the meeting today, the Fraser River Panel approved an Early Stuart run size estimate of 50,000 with a 50% marine timing through Area 20 of July 03. Assessments of Early Summer sockeye are ongoing.
On July 13 the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 4,693 cms, which is approximately 14% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 13 was 17.00C, which is 0.90C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Tuesday, July 18, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/8326/july-14-2017.pdf
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Rodney.
Not trying to provoke anything but have some general questions as I see you post these updates every year.
Who are the stakeholders the Fraser River Panel and what is their mandate in the Fraser River sockeye runs? Do they have the authority and decision making etc when various rivers are opened - or closed for the salmon fishery?
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http://www.psc.org/publications/pacific-salmon-treaty/
THE PACIFIC SALMON TREATY
In March, 1985 the United States and Canada agreed to cooperate in the management, research and enhancement of Pacific salmon stocks of mutual concern by ratifying the Pacific Salmon Treaty.
The Treaty embodies the commitment made by Canada and the United States to carry out their salmon fisheries and enhancement programs so as to:
prevent over-fishing and provide for optimum production, and
ensure that both countries receive benefits equal to the production of salmon originating in their waters.
In fulfilling these obligations, both countries agreed to take into account:
the desirability in most cases of reducing interceptions
the desirability in most cases of avoiding undue disruption of existing fisheries, and
annual variations in abundance of the stocks.
Pacific Salmon Treaty
Format : PDF
Preview
Why We Have the Treaty
Salmon fishery managers of Canada and the United States are challenged by the fact that some of the Pacific salmon each country produces are caught by fishermen of the other country. This harvest of one country’s salmon by another’s fishermen is called interception.
Interception exists because salmon swim across international borders, beyond the jurisdiction of the government in whose water they were spawned. The fish migrate long distances, spending several years at sea. In the course of their migratory cycle, United States-spawned fish enter the fishery zones of Canada and Canadian fish enter United States waters, where they are vulnerable to the other country’s fishing fleets.
Salmon interceptions have been the subject of discussion between the two countries since the early part of this century. Over the years, research by both countries revealed that Alaskan fishermen were catching salmon bound for British Columbia, Oregon, and Washington; Canadian fishermen were capturing coho, chinook and other species bound for rivers of Washington and Oregon; fishermen in northern British Columbia were intercepting salmon returning to Alaska, and United States fishermen were catching salmon as they traveled through the Strait of Juan de Fuca and San Juan Islands towards Canada’s Fraser River.
Unless management policies and conservation concerns are jointly agreed, one nation may harvest too many of the other country’s stocks and frustrate the home country’s management plans. Uncontrolled interceptions may also jeopardize the administrative and financial support needed for salmon enhancement programs: the home country may be reluctant to invest in hatcheries or habitat protection and restoration if the fish produced are caught by fishermen of another nation. Intercepting fisheries encourage overharvest and discourage investment in conservation and enhancement.
Through the years, the United States and Canada reached agreements over the management of particular salmon stocks in limited regions; for example, Fraser River sockeye and pink salmon. However, the number and diversity of each country’s intercepting fisheries defied small-scale solutions. The Pacific Salmon Treaty is broad in scope, enabling it to serve as the means to coordinated management of the coast-wide salmon resource.
Significant Revisions to the Pacific Salmon Treaty – 1999 and 2009
The arrangements and institutions established in 1985 proved effective in the early years of the Treaty but became outmoded after 1992 when the original fishing arrangements expired. From 1992 to 1998, Canada and the United States were not able to reach agreement on comprehensive, coast-wide fisheries arrangements. In 1999 government-to-government negotiations culminated in the successful renewal of long-term fishing arrangements under the Pacific Salmon Treaty.
Some of the key elements introduced with the 1999 Agreement include the creation of the Transboundary Panel and the Committee on Scientific Cooperation; the inclusion of habitat provisions in the Treaty; a move from fisheries based on negotiated catch ceilings to abundance-based management fisheries; and the establishment of the Northern and Southern Restoration and Enhancement funds.
In May, 2008 the Pacific Salmon Commission recommended a new bilateral agreement for the conservation and harvest sharing of Pacific salmon to the Governments of Canada and the United States. The product of nearly 18 months of negotiations, the agreement represents a major step forward in science-based conservation and sustainable harvest sharing of the salmon resource between Canada and the United States of America. Approved in December, 2008 by the respective governments, the new fishing regimes are in force from the beginning of 2009 through the end of 2018.
The new fishing regimes are contained in the following Chapters of Annex IV of the Treaty:
Chapter 1. Transboundary Rivers
Chapter 2. Northern British Columbia and Southeast Alaska Boundary Area
Chapter 3. Chinook Salmon
Chapter 5. Coho Salmon
Chapter 6. Southern British Columbia and Washington State Chum Salmon
The agreement replaces previous versions of the Chapters.
Yukon River Salmon Agreement – 2002
In 1985, the Pacific Salmon Treaty included a commitment by Canada and the United States to carry on further negotiations concerning Yukon River salmon. The Parties exchanged notes concluding an agreement on Yukon River salmon in December 2002. There is a formal relationship between the Yukon Agreement and the Pacific Salmon Commission in that the Yukon River Agreement forms Chapter 8 of the Pacific Salmon Treaty. However, the Pacific Salmon Commission has no legal responsibility to administer the Yukon Agreement or to oversee the work of the Yukon Panel.
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The Fraser River Panel including membership can be found here: http://www.psc.org/about-us/structure/panels/fraser-river/#squelch-taas-tab-content-0-0
same info on one page: http://www.psc.org/membership-lists/
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I have a question for the experts:
There have been multiple FN openings in the Fraser for Chinook, Sockeye and incidental pinks over the last couple of weeks and there are more gill net openings announced for this and next week. While the last two DFO notifications are clearly emphasizing on the fact that this is still too early and "numbers from the test fisheries" are not giving us the true picture and estimate of the sockeye run size, how these gill net openings can be justified? Does the DFO have the actual escapement numbers for the early Stuart sockeye and is the risk of low escapement already mitigated? Can somebody shed some light please?
http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/fraser/docs/abor-autoc/UpperFraser/UMFOpenTimes-eng.htm
http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/fraser/docs/abor-autoc/UpperFraser/UMFPrevOpenTimes-eng.htm
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How can you have reliable test data when these are the comments almost daily from them.
Comments:
<Cottonwood GN> Gilled vs. Tangled: No Catch. Up to 2 seals observed. 1st set was short due to lots of debris in
the water.
<Whonnock GN> Gilled vs. Tangled: Sock Adult: 1 (1). 3 seals present.
<Area 20GN> 3 sea lions feeding at net.
<Area 12 Round Island GN>
Comments:
<Cottonwood GN> Gilled vs. Tangled: No Catch. Up to 2 seals observed. Active seal presence.
<Whonnock GN> Gilled vs. Tangled: Chin Adult: 0 (1). Switched to Whonnock Channel due to low water. A third,
non-assessment partial set on Glen Valley Bar caught 4 sockeye. Up to 3 seals observed.
<Area 20GN>
<Area 12 Round Island GN> Up to 1 sealion. Dogfish weighing down first set.
<Qualark GN>
Comments:
<Cottonwood GN> Gilled vs. Tangled: No Catch. Up to 4 seals observed. 2 stolen fish.
<Whonnock GN> Gilled vs. Tangled: Sock Adult: 3 (2).
<Area 20GN>
<Area 12 Round Island GN> 1 sea lion observed.
<Qualark GN> 10 foot sturgeon.
Comments:
<Cottonwood GN> Gilled vs. Tangled: Sock Adult: 2 (0), Chin Jack: 2 (0), Stlhd: 1 (0). Up to 1 seal observed.
<Whonnock GN> Gilled vs. Tangled: Sock Adult: 1 (2), Chin Adult: 1 (0). Up to 3 seals observed. 1 Sockeye
missing head.
<Area 20GN>
<Area 12 Round Island GN>
<Qualark GN> 1 Chinook fell off net.
These are comments just from the last week!!
Its a daily occurrence, Ive seen note like sockeye with missing heads, bla bla bla
Should they should do something about the seals for the test fishery
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I'm no "expert" but DFO has to open early for 1st nations to appease the band's otherwise they would just fish anyways. It's kinda a dammed if we do/dammed if we don't scenario. So on cue the dfo will always open from March on based on treaty rights etc. I used to watch the test fisheries every day, listen to reports etc. Now I'm only expecting a maybe opening every 4 years with possible " heavy lobbied" chinook spot opening s, it looks like the Fraser is now Solely a native only river or soon to be
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I'm no "expert" but DFO has to open early for 1st nations to appease the band's otherwise they would just fish anyways. It's kinda a dammed if we do/dammed if we don't scenario. So on cue the dfo will always open from March on based on treaty rights etc. I used to watch the test fisheries every day, listen to reports etc. Now I'm only expecting a maybe opening every 4 years with possible " heavy lobbied" chinook spot opening s, it looks like the Fraser is now Solely a native only river or soon to be
I believe they have signed treaty obligations for First Nations Ceremonial fisheries. They do not have to provide them with an economical or substance fishery.
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Yes your right but seriously doesn't matter, most ceremonial fish do end up sold anyways, giving them economic fisheries is basically the same to them. My take on it is First nations want income, salmon supply income, salmon get sold no matter when or what or if, they will overfish on boom year s and get what they can on drier years but.....THEY WILL ALWAYS FISH. DFO has really no option to control them IMHO. We as sports fisherman will never be a conservation issue but we sure can be a nuisance when it comes to.openings
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I was discussing this with my wife the other day and she decided what they should do is just completely close the Fraser and tributaries to all but non-salmon species every third year. That would remove all fishing pressure from every cycle every 12 years. Unfortunately, this would never be agreed upon without huge cash payments to offset any fish income FN would lose.
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As it is right now I believe only the Tsawwassen Band has a treaty. F&C fishing has to be provided excepting extreme conservation necessity by authority of the constitution.
All I can say about the allegation F&C fish is almost all sold - prove it. First salmon and similar ceremonies are serious stuff in native communities.
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We could easily go in circles here and I could say " prove they are processing and storing and or eating the fish". Friends of mine drive through Port Alberni just after the sockeye arrived in numbers and " Sockeye for sale" signs were up, so that tells me like other first nations, u can either sell fish and do with the cash what you want or just retain your fish? Most want freedom with their diet and the cash allows them this. The old ways are lost in this society, fish unsold are dumped, poaching game etc is the "New Normal " Chiefs are multi millionaire s,band fisherman don't share profits with rest of band, all part of new reality so I believe that all fishery and game allotments are just swimming and running dollar signs that allow first nations economies,,so they should all be included under one allotment
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We could easily go in circles here and I could say " prove they are processing and storing and or eating the fish". Friends of mine drive through Port Alberni just after the sockeye arrived in numbers and " Sockeye for sale" signs were up, so that tells me like other first nations, u can either sell fish and do with the cash what you want or just retain your fish? Most want freedom with their diet and the cash allows them this. The old ways are lost in this society, fish unsold are dumped, poaching game etc is the "New Normal " Chiefs are multi millionaire s,band fisherman don't share profits with rest of band, all part of new reality so I believe that all fishery and game allotments are just swimming and running dollar signs that allow first nations economies,,so they should all be included under one allotment
While there's some truth in what you said above, it is not entirely true. There are FN bands on the island and up north that still have strong connections to their ceremonial things and don't see the salmon as swimming $$. I agree with you that we could go in circles here. If we have problems with the current state of affairs about FN openings, we can only think of the following two alternatives:
1- Find and document the evidence that can be proved in courts
2- Follow the legal process to protest and change the law with an intent to take away/limit the FN's constitutional fishing rights
Besides these two, we can also endlessly talk and bitch on the Internet forums with the hope that a miracle will change the current state.
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ubject: FN0673-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - July 18, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, July 18 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Gill net test fishing began in the Fraser River on June 28 at Whonnock, July 2
at Qualark Creek and July 12 at Cottonwood. In marine waters the gill net test
fisheries began on July 7 in Area 20 and July 11 in Area 12 (Round Island).
Sockeye catches in all test fisheries have been very low to date. Stock
identification analyses are currently showing a continuation of the higher than
expected proportions of Early Stuart sockeye and increasing proportions of
Early Summer and Summer run stocks. No late run stocks have been observed to
date.
Sample sizes from both in-river and marine test fisheries have remained low
which results in a higher level of uncertainty in stock composition estimates.
Hell's Gate observations have dropped in recent days and are lower than would
be expected. During today's Panel call the start-up of the Purse seine test
fisheries in Areas 12 and 20 was delayed by two days with start-up now planned
for July 24 and 25 respectively. These dates will be confirmed at the July 21
Panel meeting.
DNA analysis of samples taken in the marine test fisheries show sockeye stock
compositions in Area 20 of approximately 47% Early Stuart, 42% Early Summers
and 11% Summer run stocks. During the call today, the Fraser Panel made no
changes to the recently reduced Early Stuart run size of 50,000 with an Area 20
peak run timing of July 3. The estimated escapement of Early Stuart sockeye as
of July 17 is 35,100 fish. Early summer run stocks are also tracking well below
the p25 forecast of 166,000 but it is too early to tell if the returns are as
weak as they appear or just later than expected.
In-season assessment of all run timing groups generally occurs shortly after
identification of their peak migration through marine areas. Early Summer
stocks are starting to build in marine and in-river test fishery samples. Run-
size estimates of Early Summer returns should be available in late July after
their expected peak migration through marine areas. The estimated escapement of
Early Summer-run and Summer-run sockeye past Mission through July 17 is only
11,000 and 1,500 respectively.
On July 17, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 4,041 m3/s, which is
approximately 24% lower than average for this date. The temperature of the
Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 17 was 17.2°C, which is 0.6°C higher than
average for this date and is forecast to increase to 17.8°C by July 23.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel has adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summers and anticipated river entry dates for
Late run fish. Management adjustments are additional fish that are removed from
identified harvest levels and allowed to migrate upstream in an attempt to
assist in achievement of identified spawner objectives for the different run
timing groups. In-season information in the coming weeks will help to inform
future decisions on management adjustments for the Early Summer and Summer
management groups while the Early Stuart and Late run management groups will be
managed based on the respective Low Abundance Exploitation Rate (LAER) for each
group (10% for Early Stuart and 20% for Lates). There will be no in-season
estimates of management adjustment for Early Stuart in 2017 as the forecast
returns are very low across most of the forecast range and it is anticipated
they will be managed to the LAER, with the expected outcome of a spawning
escapement well below target.
First Nations food, social and ceremonial (FSC) sockeye fisheries have been
restricted by the 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart and the
earliest timed Early Summer stocks with limited fishing opportunities to date
directed at Chinook salmon. Due to the appearance of lateness and/or weakness
in the returns of Early summers and Summers the start-up of sockeye directed
FSC fisheries will be delayed until the identification of TAC for Early Summer
or Summer sockeye.
FSC fishers in marine approach areas as well as the Fraser River are requested
to check for the opening times and any restrictions in their local area.
Given the low returns to date there are no fisheries directed upon Fraser River
sockeye scheduled at this time, and updates will continue to be provided
following meetings of the Fraser River Panel on Tuesdays and Fridays of each
week.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Friday, July 21, 2017.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Nener 604-666-0789
Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0673
Sent July 18, 2017 at 1555
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We could easily go in circles here and I could say " prove they are processing and storing and or eating the fish". Friends of mine drive through Port Alberni just after the sockeye arrived in numbers and " Sockeye for sale" signs were up, ...
excuse me for deleting the usual "the Chiefs are all millionaires" nauseating anti-native diatribe.
Sorry I thought the topic was Fraser Salmon not Stamp river. Last I heard the return of sockeye on the Stamp was fairly good & it had been opened to a 4 day seiner harvest of the surplus, though the arm chair fisheries biologists dissent as usual. Far better that Pattison sells them for cash than some cash strapped Indians. ...forgive the sarcasm.
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Apparently the americans are better conservationist then us
http://www.alaskapublic.org/2017/07/18/big-harvest-and-a-buck-a-pound-bristol-bays-2017-should-be-huge/ (http://www.alaskapublic.org/2017/07/18/big-harvest-and-a-buck-a-pound-bristol-bays-2017-should-be-huge/)
Or is it more to do climate change and ocean survival rates? then overfishing and loss of habitat?
Im perplexed skeena seeing record low returns, Fraser river forecasted for horrible returns. If its loss of habitat then what's up with the skeena?
Ugg im scared that it just might be climate change
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Apparently the americans are better conservationist then us
Hahahaha, not hardly. The big Kenai River chinooks are all but wiped out. Bristol bay just happens to be naturally very productive for sockeye, and I think it was less impacted by the "blob". Also, don't most runs up there tend to have one year longer in the cycle, so maybe next year will be a down year? Also, I'm curious, I know many large runs of sockeye in northern Alaska are "river type" i.e. don't rear in lakes, much like the Harrison stock that seem to do well when other Fraser sockeye are not doing well. I wonder if the runs that are booming are "river type" fish and the depressed runs are "lake type"?
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Tuesday, July 18, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, July 18 to receive an update on the migration of
Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Test fishing catch and escapement continue to track below the pre-season median forecast
level of abundance. The marine migration of Early Stuart sockeye is winding down. At the meeting
today, the run size estimate of 50,000 Early Stuart sockeye with a 50% marine timing through Area
20 of July 03 was unchanged. Assessments of Early Summer sockeye are ongoing.
On July 17 the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 4,041cms, which is approximately
24% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 17
was 17.20C, which is 0.60C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and
water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are
required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Friday, July 21, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/8329/july-18-2017.pdf
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Friday, July 21, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Friday, July 21 to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Daily test fishing catches and escapements continue to track below the pre-season median forecast level of abundance. Current assessments of Early Summer run daily abundance are tracking below the p25 level forecast of 166,000 fish which means there would be no International total allowable catch. Consequently, no sockeye directed fisheries are being planned by either country. If this pattern continues, the Panel will likely adopt an abundance lower than the median forecast of 343,000 for management purposes at its next meeting. Harrison and Late Stuart sockeye currently comprise most of the Summer-run sockeye presently migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait assessment route. Assessments of Summer-run sockeye abundance should be available early in August after their peak migration through marine assessment areas.
On July 20 the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 3,784cms, which is approximately 24% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 20 was 17.30C, which is 0.40C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Tuesday, July 25, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/8340/july-21-2017.pdf
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Category(s): ABORIGINAL - General Information
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Gill Net
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Seine
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Troll
RECREATIONAL - Salmon
Subject: FN0697-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - July 21, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Friday, July 21 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Gill net test fishing catches continue to be very poor in both the marine and
in-river testing areas. Stock identification information continues to show a
higher than expected proportions of Early Stuart sockeye largely due to the
lower numbers of Early Summer and Summer run stocks showing to date. No late
run stocks have been observed at this time.
Sample sizes from both in-river and marine test fisheries have remained low
which results in a higher level of uncertainty in stock composition estimates.
Hell's Gate observations have continued to decline. During today's Panel call
the start-up of the Purse seine test fisheries in Areas 12 and 20 was confirmed
for July 24 and 25 respectively. In addition, Reef net test fishery
observations will be conducted for the next 3 days to determine if Fraser
sockeye are present in US waters. The diversion rate through Johnstone Strait
is currently estimated to be 16% which is well below the pre-season predicted
rate of 51% for the entire season.
DNA analysis of samples taken in the marine test fisheries show sockeye stock
compositions in Area 20 of approximately 21% Early Stuart, 52% Early Summers
and 26% Summer run stocks. During the call today, the Fraser Panel made no
changes to the recently reduced Early Stuart run size of 50,000 with an Area 20
peak run timing of July 3. The estimated escapement past Mission of Early
Stuart sockeye as of July 20 is 40,000 fish.
Early Summer run stocks are also tracking well below the p25 forecast of
166,000 but it is too early to tell if the returns are as weak as they appear
or just later than expected. Although there was no formal change to the run
size today at the p25 run size there is no TAC available and as such no sockeye
directed fisheries are being considered at this time. It is anticipated that a
formal run size will be adopted at the next Panel meeting on Tuesday, July 25.
In-season assessment of all run timing groups generally occurs shortly after
identification of their peak migration through marine areas. Early Summer run
stocks are starting to build in marine and in-river test fishery samples. Run-
size estimates of Early Summer returns should be available in late July after
their expected peak migration through marine areas. The estimated escapement
of Early Summer-run and Summer-run sockeye past Mission through July 20th is
only 15,400 and 3,200 respectively.
On July 20, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 3,784 m3/s, which is
approximately 24% lower than average for this date. The temperature of the
Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 20 was 17.3°C, which is 0.4°C higher than
average for this date and is forecast to increase to 18.4°C by July 26. Due to
the very low discharge levels water temperatures are impacted more by the air
temperatures they are exposed to.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel has adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summers and anticipated river entry dates for
Late run fish. Management adjustments are additional fish that are removed from
identified harvest levels and allowed to migrate upstream in an attempt to
assist in achievement of identified spawner objectives for the different run
timing groups. In-season information in the coming weeks will help to inform
future decisions on management adjustments for the Early Summer and Summer
management groups while the Early Stuart and Late run management groups will be
managed based on the respective Low Abundance Exploitation Rate (LAER) for each
group (10% for Early Stuart and 20% for Lates). There will be no in-season
estimates of management adjustment for Early Stuart in 2017 as the forecast
returns are very low across most of the forecast range and it is anticipated
they will be managed to the LAER, with the expected outcome of a spawning
escapement well below target.
First Nations food, social and ceremonial (FSC) sockeye fisheries have been
restricted by the 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart and the
earliest timed Early Summer run stocks with limited fishing opportunities to
date directed at chinook salmon. Due to the appearance of lateness and/or
weakness in the returns of Early Summer and Summer run stocks, the start-up of
sockeye directed FSC fisheries will continue to be delayed until the
identification of TAC for Early Summer and/or Summer run sockeye.
FSC fishers in marine approach areas as well as the Fraser River are requested
to check for the opening times and any restrictions in their local area.
Given the low returns to date there are no fisheries directed upon Fraser River
sockeye scheduled at this time, and updates will continue to be provided
following meetings of the Fraser River Panel on Tuesdays and Fridays of each
week.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Tuesday, July 25, 2017.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Nener 604-666-0789
-
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fns-sap/index-eng.cfm?pg=view_notice&DOC_ID=198781&ID=all
Effective dates: 00:01 hours July 25, 2017 until further notice.
Waters: All waters in Region 2.
Management Measure: Fishing for sockeye is not permitted in Region 2.
Current in-season information regarding Fraser River sockeye salmon has
identified a conservation concern. As a result, additional management actions
are being implemented to protect migrating Fraser River sockeye stocks.
Variation Order: 2017-364
Notes:
Anglers are advised to check http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/index-
eng.html for fishing closures and other recreational fishing information.
Did you witness suspicious fishing activity or a violation? If so, please call
the Fisheries and Ocean Canada 24-hour toll free Observe, Record, Report line
at (800) 465-4336 or the British Columbia's toll-free RAPP line (Report All
Poachers and Polluters) at 1-877-952-RAPP (7277).
For the 24 hour recorded opening and closure line, call toll free at
1-(866)431-FISH (3474).
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Barbara Mueller, Resource Manager (Fraser River) - Delta (604)666-2370
Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0699
Sent July 24, 2017 at 1516
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Does this apply to FSC netting as well or just the sporties?
-
Does this apply to FSC netting as well or just the sporties?
This announcement is directed at Recreational fishers. I wonder what motivated the announcement? Has someone been caught flossing the Fraser already? Was someone targeting sockeye in Chilliwack Lake?
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This announcement is directed at Recreational fishers. I wonder what motivated the announcement? Has someone been caught flossing the Fraser already? Was someone targeting sockeye in Chilliwack Lake?
I wouldn't read too much into it. DFO is lost between their conservation mandates and the political clown shows in Ottawa and that's nothing new. Maybe if they did something about the open nettings in the mouth of the south arm since April, that would've added some weight to their "management measures" this is really sad.
-
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, July 25th to receive an update on the migration of
Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Daily test fishing catches and escapements continue to track below the pre-season median
forecast level of abundance. Current assessments of Early Summer run daily abundance are
tracking below the p25 level forecast of 166,000. The Fraser River Panel agreed to adopt the p25
forecast of 166,000 as an interim management measure, which means there is currently no
International total allowable catch. The Fraser River Panel will review the run size at the next
meeting on Friday, July 28th. Consequently, no sockeye directed fisheries are being planned by
either country. Pitt and Late Stuart sockeye currently comprise most of the sockeye presently
migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait assessment route. Assessments of Summer-run sockeye
abundance should be available in August after their peak migration through marine assessment
areas.
On July 24 the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 3,344cms, which is approximately
30% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 24
was 17.40C, which is 0.20C lower than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water
temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required
during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Friday, July 28th, 2017.
-
This announcement is directed at Recreational fishers. I wonder what motivated the announcement? Has someone been caught flossing the Fraser already? Was someone targeting sockeye in Chilliwack Lake?
Could just be a precautionary measure. The Fraser was already closed to salmon fishing so this new measure adds nothing there . In waters where sockeye retention is/was zero, it would have been technically legal to target sockeye for C&R. With this announcement there would be no targeting of sockeye at all, though I dont know how a CO could determine you were fishing for sockeye vs coho/springs/pinks/etc.
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Could just be a precautionary measure. The Fraser was already closed to salmon fishing so this new measure adds nothing there . In waters where sockeye retention is/was zero, it would have been technically legal to target sockeye for C&R. With this announcement there would be no targeting of sockeye at all, though I dont know how a CO could determine you were fishing for sockeye vs coho/springs/pinks/etc.
Here's a thought - in Washington, where by law the tribes and the state and co-managers of salmon and steelhead runs, the tribes object highly to allowing catch-and-release on stocks that they are not allowed to harvest at all, arguing that there is no such thing as zero impact from sportfishing, even with bait bans and barbless hook rules in place. And I think to a certain extent they are correct. Perhaps this rule clarification is an attempt to satisfy FN fishers that everything is being done to protect the stocks that legally they have first right to.
This fight has played out in the current season in Washington with several rivers (or sections of rivers) being closed to all angling, including fishing for trout with selective gear, as zero impact on protected salmon and steelhead will be tolerated by the Tribal co-managers.
-
This announcement is directed at Recreational fishers. I wonder what motivated the announcement? Has someone been caught flossing the Fraser already? Was someone targeting sockeye in Chilliwack Lake?
not exclusively no. Also the link is dead.
-
Category(s): ABORIGINAL - General Information
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Gill Net
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Seine
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Troll
RECREATIONAL - Salmon
Subject: FN0709-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - July 25, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met on Tuesday, July 25 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Gill net test fishing catches remain very poor in both the marine and in-river
testing areas. Purse seine test fishing began in Area 12 on July 24 while Area
20 began on July 25. Catches during the first day in Area 12 and the last 3
days of Reef Net observations were also very low. Stock identification
information is showing a decline in the proportion of Early Stuart sockeye in
Area 20 with continued presence in Area 12 samples. Early Summer and Summer
run stocks are currently comprising the largest fraction in both approach
areas. No late run stocks have been observed at this time.
Sample sizes from both in-river and marine test fisheries have remained low
which results in a higher level of uncertainty in stock composition estimates.
Hell's Gate observations have been extremely low in recent days. During
today's Panel call, the start-up of the purse seine test fishery in Area 13 was
delayed to Monday July 31, with confirmation to be made during the next Panel
meeting on July 28. Based on the gill net test fishery catches in Areas 12 and
20, the diversion rate through Johnstone Strait has increased to 28% which
remains below the pre-season predicted rate of 51% for the entire season.
The most recent DNA samples taken in the marine test fisheries show sockeye
stock compositions in Area 20 of approximately 0% Early Stuart, 48% Early
Summer and 52% Summer run stocks. In Area 12 the stock composition was 23%
Early Stuart, 32% Early Summer and 45% Summer run stocks.
During the call today, the Fraser Panel made no changes to the Early Stuart run
size of 50,000 with an Area 20 peak run timing of July 3. The estimated
escapement past Mission of Early Stuart sockeye as of July 24 is 43,800 fish.
Early Summer run stocks are also tracking well below the p25 forecast of
166,000 with some of the later timing stocks in this group not being observed
at this time. During the Panel call today the decision was made to reduce the
run size for Early Summers to the p25 run size as an interim step with the
anticipation of further reductions if the later timed stocks also return lower
than forecast. At this run size there is no TAC available and as such no
sockeye directed fisheries are being considered at this time. The estimated
escapement of Early Summer-run and Summer-run sockeye past Mission through July
24 is only 18,800 and 4,500 respectively. Both are well below the expected
levels for this date.
On July 24, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 3,344 m3/s, which is
approximately 30% lower than average for this date. The temperature of the
Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 24 was 17.4°C, which is 0.2°C lower than
average for this date due largely to cooler air temperatures in recent days.
The forecast is for water temperatures to increase to 18.8°C by July 30. Due to
the very low discharge levels, water temperatures are influenced more by the
air temperatures they are exposed to.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel has adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summers, and anticipated river entry dates for
Late run fish. Management adjustments are additional fish that are removed from
identified harvest levels and allowed to migrate upstream in an attempt to
assist in achievement of identified spawner objectives for the different run
timing groups. In-season information in the coming weeks will help to inform
future decisions on management adjustments for the Early Summer and Summer
management groups while the Early Stuart and Late run management groups will be
managed based on the respective Low Abundance Exploitation Rate (LAER) for each
group (10% for Early Stuart and 20% for Lates). There will be no in-season
estimates of management adjustment for Early Stuart in 2017 as the forecast
returns are very low across most of the forecast range and it is anticipated
they will be managed to the LAER, with the expected outcome of a spawning
escapement well below target.
First Nations food, social and ceremonial (FSC) sockeye fisheries have been
restricted by the 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart and the
earliest timed Early Summer run stocks with limited fishing opportunities to
date directed at chinook salmon. Due to the appearance of lateness and/or
weakness in the returns of Early Summer and Summer run stocks, the start-up of
sockeye directed FSC fisheries will continue to be delayed until the
identification of TAC for Early Summer and/or Summer run sockeye.
FSC fishers in marine approach areas as well as the Fraser River are requested
to check for the opening times and any restrictions in their local area.
Given the low returns to date there are no fisheries directed upon Fraser River
sockeye scheduled at this time, and updates will continue to be provided
following meetings of the Fraser River Panel on Tuesdays and Fridays of each
week.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Friday, July 28, 2017.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Nener 604-666-0789
Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0709
Sent July 25, 2017 at 1519
-
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, July 25th to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Daily test fishing catches and escapements continue to track below the pre-season median forecast level of abundance. Current assessments of Early Summer run daily abundance are tracking below the p25 level forecast of 166,000. The Fraser River Panel agreed to adopt the p25 forecast of 166,000 as an interim management measure, which means there is currently no International total allowable catch. The Fraser River Panel will review the run size at the next meeting on Friday, July 28th. Consequently, no sockeye directed fisheries are being planned by either country. Pitt and Late Stuart sockeye currently comprise most of the sockeye presently migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait assessment route. Assessments of Summer-run sockeye abundance should be available in August after their peak migration through marine assessment areas.
On July 24 the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 3,344cms, which is approximately 30% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 24 was 17.40C, which is 0.20C lower than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Friday, July 28th, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/8342/july-25-2017.pdf
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DFO's "management measures" are hitting a new low with their double standards across different user groups. Their mandate to conserve oceanic resources seems to have been losing grounds to other political priorities.
Another netting openning in the tidal Fraser. Boys were hard at work below the Portman today.
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fraserriver/firstnations/HTMLs/CommunalOpeningTimes.html
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DFO's "management measures" are hitting a new low with their double standards across different user groups. Their mandate to conserve oceanic resources seems to have been losing grounds to other political priorities.
Another netting openning in the tidal Fraser. Boys were hard at work below the Portman today.
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fraserriver/firstnations/HTMLs/CommunalOpeningTimes.html
Saw a couple gill netters under the alex fraser this morning. What a joke.
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FN fisheries get first priority and that's the way it is. It's not a double standard and whining & bitching about it won't change it.
People should also be aware gillnet test fisheries are on the river pretty much every day from June into September. The Cottonwood Gillnet test fishery operates in that area.
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FN fisheries get first priority and that's the way it is. It's not a double standard and whining & bitching about it won't change it.
People should also be aware gillnet test fisheries are on the river pretty much every day from June into September. The Cottonwood Gillnet test fishery operates in that area.
That is not entirely true. Conservation takes first priority and that is DFO's primary mandate. DFO's contradictory fishing notifications and FN opening announcements don't seem to be in line with the current state of scarce resources. Question is: at what point DFO will put a ful closure blanket to the entire river? When there is only ZERO fish left in the run??
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That is not entirely true. Conservation takes first priority and that is DFO's primary mandate. DFO's contradictory fishing notifications and FN opening announcements don't seem to be in line with the current state of scarce resources. Question is: at what point DFO will put a ful closure blanket to the entire river? When there is only ZERO fish left in the run??
ask them.
However there is no double standard and DFO is legally obligated to provide FN opportunities provided minimum conservation requirements are met.. What those minimum requirements are probably requires negotiation with the effected FN groups. Also were are getting statements mostly from PSC here - not DFO. The PSC manages the Fraser sockeye returns.
-
There may be low sockeye in the fraser but save on foods is loaded great place for your next catch
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I have a question for the experts:
There have been multiple FN openings in the Fraser for Chinook, Sockeye and incidental pinks over the last couple of weeks and there are more gill net openings announced for this and next week. While the last two DFO notifications are clearly emphasizing on the fact that this is still too early and "numbers from the test fisheries" are not giving us the true picture and estimate of the sockeye run size, how these gill net openings can be justified? Does the DFO have the actual escapement numbers for the early Stuart sockeye and is the risk of low escapement already mitigated? Can somebody shed some light please?
http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/fraser/docs/abor-autoc/UpperFraser/UMFOpenTimes-eng.htm
http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/fraser/docs/abor-autoc/UpperFraser/UMFPrevOpenTimes-eng.htm
I just looked back at some earlier posts including this quoted above.
Perhaps it helps to look at the detail of some of these openings and consider where, what's targeted and how they can fish. Some of the sockeye openings are not in the Fraser but in tributaries that are expected to have better returns than say the Early Stuart run - the Chilko run and the Horsefly stocks are generally ok relative to some others. Most chinook targeted fishing is using dipnets, hook and line and fish wheels -which is the sort of selective methodology the Sport Angling community has been crying for. Are we bitching about that too now? You have to consider too that the FN are agreeing to fish using these methods as opposed to gillnets which they were more or less forced to use for many decades.
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You have to consider too that the FN are agreeing to fish using these methods as opposed to gillnets which they were more or less forced to use for many decades.
Please find me a First Nations person who would prefer traditional methods over the rape net. That's almost funny Ralph.
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Please find me a First Nations person who would prefer traditional methods over the rape net. That's almost funny Ralph.
you couldn't find a FN person period...makes it easier to dish out ignorant disinformation.
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Friday, July 28, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Friday, July 28th to receive an update on the migration of
Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Daily test fishing catches and escapements continue to track below the pre-season median
forecast level of abundance. Current assessments of Early Summer run daily abundance are
tracking below the p25 level forecast of 166,000 and closer to the p10 level of 95,000.
Consequently, no sockeye directed fisheries are being planned by either country. At the meeting
today, the run size estimate of 166,000 for the Early Summer run with a marine timing through
Area 20 of July 20 was unchanged. Pitt, Late Stuart / Stellako, and Chilko / Quesnel sockeye
currently comprise most of the sockeye presently migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait
assessment route. Assessments of Summer-run sockeye abundance should be available in August
after their peak migration through marine assessment areas.
On July 27th the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 3,280cms, which is
approximately 29% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark
Creek on July 27th was 18.60C, which is 0.70C higher than average for this date. Fraser River
discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific
management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye
escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Tuesday, August 1st,
2017.
-
Salmon fishing closures have been extended past the original July 31st date until further notice. Fishery notices:
Non-tidal Fraser River in Region 2:
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fns-sap/index-eng.cfm?pg=view_notice&DOC_ID=199052&ID=all
Tidal Fraser River:
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fns-sap/index-eng.cfm?pg=view_notice&DOC_ID=199056&ID=all
Fraser River Mouth (Subareas 29-6, 29-7, 29-9 and 29-10):
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fns-sap/index-eng.cfm?pg=view_notice&DOC_ID=199048&ID=all
-
Any idea when most of the Fraser sockeye finish migrating?
-
Fishery Notice
Category(s): ABORIGINAL - General Information
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Gill Net
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Seine
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Troll
RECREATIONAL - Salmon
Subject: FN0741-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - July 28, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met on Friday, July 28 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Gill net test fishing catches remain very poor in Area 12 but improved
substantially in Area 20 yesterday. Conversely, purse seine test fishing
catches improved substantially in Area 12 while Area 20 showed only modest
increases yesterday. In-river gill net test catches have continued to be very
poor since testing began in early July.
Stock identification information continues to show a decline in the proportion
of Early Stuart sockeye in all areas with Summer run stocks now dominating the
stock proportion in all marine areas. In-river stock identification information
is highly uncertain as sample size has been extremely low. The first
observation of late run stocks occurred in Area 20 on July 26.
Daily Mission hydroacoustics escapement estimates have continued to be very low
ranging from 1,300 to 4,500 over the past several days. The total estimated
sockeye escapement as of July 27 is 80,600. Hell's Gate observations continue
to be extremely low in recent days.
During today's Panel call, the start-up of the purse seine test fishery in Area
13 was confirmed for Monday, July 31. Based on the gill net and seine test
fishery catches in Areas 12 and 20, the diversion rate through Johnstone Strait
has increased to 32% which remains below the pre-season predicted rate of 51%
for the entire season.
The most recent DNA samples taken in the marine test fisheries show sockeye
stock compositions in Area 20 of approximately 2% Early Stuart, 30% Early
Summer, 67% Summer and 1% Late run stocks. In Area 12 the stock composition
was 0% Early Stuart, 22% Early Summer, 78% Summer and 0% Late run stocks.
During the call today, the Fraser Panel made no changes to the Early Stuart run
size of 50,000 with an Area 20 peak run timing of July 3. The estimated
escapement past Mission of Early Stuart sockeye as of July 27 is 43,900 fish.
Early Summer run stocks continue to track well below the p25 forecast of
166,000 with some of the later timed stocks in this group just beginning to
show in recent marine test fisheries samples. During the Panel call today the
decision was made to remain at the provisional run size for Early Summers of
166,000 (p25 forecast) that was adopted at Tuesdays meeting. It is anticipated
that a further reduction to the Early summer run size is likely to occur at
next Tuesdays meeting. At this run size there is no TAC available and as such
no sockeye directed fisheries are being considered at this time.
Summer run stocks are also tracking well below the p25 forecast level, however,
it is far too early to make any run size modifications at this time. The
estimated escapement of Early Summer-run and Summer-run sockeye past Mission
through July 27 is only 25,300 and 11,400 respectively. Both are well below the
expected levels for this date.
On July 27, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 3,280 m3/s, which is
approximately 29% lower than average for this date. The water temperature of
the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 27 increased to 18.6°C due largely to
warming air temperatures in recent days and is 0.7°C higher than average for
this date. The forecast is for water temperatures to increase to 19.9°C by
August 2. Due to the very low discharge levels, water temperatures are highly
influenced by air temperatures.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel had adopted management
adjustments (MA) for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, and anticipated river
entry dates for Late run fish. Due to the very poor return of Early Summer run
stocks they are now being managed based on a Low Abundance Exploitation Rate
(LAER) approach and as such there will be no modifications to the in-season MA
for this group. Management adjustments are additional fish that are set aside
from identified harvest levels and allowed to migrate upstream in an attempt to
assist in achievement of identified spawner objectives for the different run
timing groups. In-season information in the coming weeks will help to inform
future decisions on management adjustments for the Summer management group
while the Early Stuart, Early Summer and Late run management groups will be
managed based on the respective LAER for each group (10% for Early Stuart and
Early Summers and 20% for Lates). There will be no in-season estimates of
management adjustment for Early Stuart, Early Summer and Late run groups in
2017.
First Nations food, social and ceremonial (FSC) sockeye fisheries have been
restricted by a 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart and the earliest
timed Early Summer run stocks with limited fishing opportunities to date
directed at chinook salmon. Due to the apparent later than average run timing
and/or weakness in the returns of Early Summer and Summer run stocks, the start-
up of sockeye directed FSC fisheries will continue to be delayed until there is
an identification of TAC for Early Summer and/or Summer run sockeye.
FSC fishers in marine approach areas as well as the Fraser River are requested
to check for the opening times and any restrictions in their local area.
Given the low returns to date there are no fisheries directed upon Fraser River
sockeye scheduled at this time, and updates will continue to be provided
following meetings of the Fraser River Panel on Tuesdays and Fridays of each
week.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Tuesday, August 1, 2017.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Nener 604-666-0789
Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0741
Sent July 28, 2017 at 1527
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Any idea when most of the Fraser sockeye finish migrating?
http://www.psc.org/download/469/2017/8327/july-14-2017-2.pdf (http://www.psc.org/download/469/2017/8327/july-14-2017-2.pdf)
Fraser river mouth is about 1 week behind Area 20 run timing. Estimated peak run is around august 10th, fraser would be around August 25. They will still be in the fraser well into september.
My best guess is the fraser won't be open till september 1st, maybe 15 days earlier if the late run sockeye numbers are good and they won't have to be manage to Low Abundance Exploitation Rate (LAER). Meaning they don't care about sockeye being incidentally caught in pink,chinook fisheries.
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late August September is mostly Adams River and Weaver creek fish. It's become normal to close the river after Labour Day to salmon fishing until the 2nd week of September or so. Most of the summer fish (Horsefly, Chicotin etc) and usually passed Hope by the end of August. In odd # years it's usually open to pink salmon. For the most part Pinks aren't available in good numbers until the end of August. I think they have also had closures above Agassiz Bridge and other approaches. We will have to wait and see what they do as the end of August approaches.
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Next week is suppose to be supper hot, What's the over and under odds of dead sockeye floating down the river next week?
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Next week is suppose to be supper hot, What's the over and under odds of dead sockeye floating down the river next week?
Already seen what sure looked to be dead Sockeye on the north side of the Fraser just up river of the Port Mann boat launch a few days ago. Did not see any today.
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If the temperature reaches into the low 20's ( as could easily happen) expect floaters.
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it's really very common.
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Just a little something I found surfin. ???
State sold out Western Alaska on salmon bycatch issue
by George Pletnikoff
August 25, 2009
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It has now been almost three months since the North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC) took on the serious issue of chinook (king) salmon by catch in the Bering Sea pollock fishery. The result of the vote on a motion made by the State of Alaska, Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), is misguided. As it happens, this is one of the last decisions made by our former Governor Sarah Palin before she left office. The problem is the pollock fishery in the Bering Sea is a one billion dollar a year fishery. While they are fishing for pollock, dragging huge nets behind their factory ships, they also catch other fish other than pollock.
In this case, they catch chinook salmon, many of which are heading for Western Alaska rivers and streams, as by catch. Between 1990-2001, an average of 37,819 chinook salmon and 69,332 other salmon were caught annually in the Bering Sea pollock fishery. Governor Palin's motion said the pollock industry should be allowed to catch up to 68,000 chinook which was later lowered to 60,000 fish per year. This amount is almost double the eleven year average cited above! You can get more information about this serious problem by Googling the NPFMC if you wish. What I am wondering in this short paper is given there are representatives from the States of Washington and Oregon, as well as others, on the NPFMC, and given that most of the pollock fishing companies are from Washington, why would the State of Alaska make such a motion which negatively impacts the Citizens of the State she is supposed to represent? And make a motion that would increase the chinook salmon by catch amount to almost twice the amount of what was caught in this fishery, from a eleven year average of 37,819 to 60,000 fish?
We should make no mistake that the elected government officials of our State must do all they can to represent the people, all the people of our State. And those who are appointed to important positions, representing our elected government officials, must also do the same. We are requesting a review of this motion, passed by the NPFMC unanimously, by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gary Locke, a very popular former Governor of the State of Washington, where many of these pollock fishers reside, so that the needs of the people of Alaska can be fairly represented and that a lower number of chinook salmon by catch can be put into place. We hope that the Secretary will take a serious look at this most serious problem. Just this summer alone, many of our people have been denied keeping a chinook salmon when caught for subsistence use.
Recently some of our people in Western Alaska went ahead and fished for salmon for food against an ADF&G closure in their waters. The elected officials of our State are to do all that they can to represent all the Citizens of the State of Alaska and not the interests of large fishing companies from other parts of our Country. It seems our former Governor has done exactly the opposite. No doubt the pollock fishers need to work and provide for their families. So do our people in Alaska. Now the NPFMC will be taking on the issue of Chum salmon by catch in the next few months. Lets hope our elected people will do all they can to represent Alaska and the Citizens who are dependent upon these fish to feed our families. After all we elected them to do just that!
By George Pletnikoff
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Subject: FN0759-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - August 1, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met on Tuesday, August 1 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Gill net test fishing catches remain very poor in Area 12 but have fluctuated
considerably in Area 20 in recent days while purse seine test catches have been
improving in Area 12 and declining in Area 20. The Area 13 purse seine test
fishery began on July 31 with a modest catch in the first day of operation. The
combination of the gill net and purse seine test catches in the two approach
areas has resulted in an increase in the projected diversion rate through
Johnstone Strait to 38% which remains below the pre-season forecast of 51%.
In-river gill net test catches have been mixed with Whonnock having extremely
low catches since testing began in early July and Cottonwood having increased
catches in recent days.
Stock identification information is currently indicating that Early Stuart
sockeye have cleared the marine and lower Fraser River test fishing areas. The
most recent DNA samples taken in the marine purse seine test fisheries show
sockeye stock compositions in Area 20 of approximately 0% Early Stuart, 13%
Early Summer, 85% Summer and 2% Late run stocks. In Area 12, the purse seine
stock composition was 0% Early Stuart, 21% Early Summer, 78% Summer and 1% Late
run stocks. In-river stock identification information remains highly uncertain
as sample sizes have been extremely low.
Daily Mission hydroacoustics escapement estimates have increased in recent days
with the largest daily escapement estimate to date being 12,400 on July 31. The
total estimated sockeye escapement as of July 31 is 119,300. Hell's Gate
observations continue to be extremely low in recent days.
During the call today, the Fraser Panel made no changes to the Early Stuart or
Early Summer run sizes of 50,000 and 166,000 respectively. The estimated
escapement past Mission of Early Stuart, Early Summer and Summer run sockeye as
of July 31 is 44,600, 39,500 and 35,200 fish respectively.
At the current run size for Early Summer run sockeye there is no TAC available
and as such no sockeye directed fisheries are being considered at this time. In
addition Summer run stocks continue to track well below the p25 forecast level,
however, it is too early to make any run size modifications at this time.
On July 31, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 3,045 m3/s, which is
approximately 30% lower than average for this date. The water temperature of
the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 31 increased to 18.7°C which is 0.7°C
higher than average for this date. The forecast is for water temperatures to
increase to 19.9°C by August 6. Due to the very low discharge levels, water
temperatures are highly influenced by air temperatures.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel had adopted management
adjustments (MA) for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, and anticipated river
entry dates for Late run fish. Due to the very poor return of Early Summer run
stocks they are now being managed based on a Low Abundance Exploitation Rate
(LAER) limit and as such there will be no modifications to the in-season MA for
this group. Management adjustments are additional fish that are set aside from
identified harvest levels and allowed to migrate upstream in an attempt to
assist in achievement of identified spawner objectives for the different run
timing groups. In-season information in the coming weeks will help to inform
future decisions on management adjustments for the Summer management group
while the Early Stuart, Early Summer and Late run management groups will be
managed based on the respective LAER for each group (10% for Early Stuart and
Early Summers and 20% for Lates). There will be no in-season estimates of
management adjustment for Early Stuart, Early Summer and Late run groups in
2017.
At this time it is too early to assess the return of Fraser pink salmon. Recent
test fishery catches in the marine approach areas have shown increasing
abundances of pink salmon. The first stock ID samples analyzed for Areas 12 and
20 purse seine test fisheries indicate Fraser origin pink salmon comprise 24
and 16 percent respectively. Run size and timing updates for Fraser pinks will
likely begin in mid to late August.
First Nations food, social and ceremonial (FSC) sockeye fisheries have been
restricted by a 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart and the earliest
timed Early Summer run stocks with limited fishing opportunities to date
directed at chinook salmon. Due to the apparent later than average run timing
and/or weakness in the returns of Early Summer and Summer run stocks, the start-
up of sockeye directed FSC fisheries will continue to be delayed until there is
an identification of TAC for Early Summer and/or Summer run sockeye.
FSC fishers in marine approach areas as well as the Fraser River are requested
to check for the opening times and any restrictions in their local area.
Given the low returns to date there are no fisheries directed upon Fraser River
sockeye scheduled at this time, and updates will continue to be provided
following meetings of the Fraser River Panel on Tuesdays and Fridays of each
week.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Friday, August 4, 2017.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Nener 604-666-0789
Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0759
Sent August 1, 2017 at 1554
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Tuesday, August 1st, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, August 1st to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Daily test fishing catches and escapements continue to track below the pre-season median forecast level of abundance. At the meeting today, the run size estimate of 166,000 for the Early Summer run with a marine timing through Area 20 of July 20 was unchanged. Consequently, no sockeye directed fisheries are being planned by either country. Harrison, Late Stuart / Stellako, and Chilko / Quesnel sockeye currently comprise most of the sockeye presently migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait assessment route. Assessments of Summer-run sockeye abundance should be available in August after their peak migration through marine assessment areas.
On July 31st the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 3,045cms, which is approximately 30% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 31st was 18.70C, which is 0.70C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Friday, August 4th, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/9267/aug-1-2017.pdf
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Tuesday, August 1st, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, August 1st to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Daily test fishing catches and escapements continue to track below the pre-season median forecast level of abundance. At the meeting today, the run size estimate of 166,000 for the Early Summer run with a marine timing through Area 20 of July 20 was unchanged. Consequently, no sockeye directed fisheries are being planned by either country. Harrison, Late Stuart / Stellako, and Chilko / Quesnel sockeye currently comprise most of the sockeye presently migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait assessment route. Assessments of Summer-run sockeye abundance should be available in August after their peak migration through marine assessment areas.
On July 31st the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 3,045cms, which is approximately 30% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on July 31st was 18.70C, which is 0.70C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Friday, August 4th, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/9267/aug-1-2017.pdf
With the snow pack from this winter.. water levels are 30% lower than avg? I guess time to say goodbye to the future of BC salmon fishing..
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With the snow pack from this winter.. water levels are 30% lower than avg? I guess time to say goodbye to the future of BC salmon fishing..
100%. It is the beginning of the end.
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With the snow pack from this winter.. water levels are 30% lower than avg? I guess time to say goodbye to the future of BC salmon fishing..
Hold on there. The snow pack was CRAZY big this past winter. Small streams have been flowing like bigs ones in unbelievable ways. I was just kayaking the mouth of the fraser and it's higher then I've seen it in 20 years. I'd say that water levels are 30% HIGHER then average.
http://cfjctoday.com/article/570501/new-bc-snowpack-numbers-stoke-flood-fears
New BC snowpack numbers stoke flood fears
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most of this winter's snow pack is long gone after the early & hot start to summer. We did have some floods in the Province this year withing a month or so after the date of your link. Levels at the mouth are hardly relative to discharge rates at Hope. Much of the river below Chilliwack is influenced by tides and the level you will observe depends on the tide levels at the time.
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most of this winter's snow pack is long gone after the early & hot start to summer. We did have some floods in the Province this year withing a month or so after the date of your link. Levels at the mouth are hardly relative to discharge rates at Hope. Much of the river below Chilliwack is influenced by tides and the level you will observe depends on the tide levels at the time.
I also get the impression that the interior snowpack dissipated much quicker than the coastal mountains. I'm not worried about the water level so much as the water temperature, which will probably be in the danger zone by the end of this week.
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I also get the impression that the interior snowpack dissipated much quicker than the coastal mountains. I'm not worried about the water level so much as the water temperature, which will probably be in the danger zone by the end of this week.
There is some other factors as well, Like the farmers in the interior have been instructed to run their irrigation for their fields 24/7 it a lot of areas as well to prevent grass fires.
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Friday, August 4th, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Friday, August 4th to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Daily test fishing catches and escapements continue to track below the pre-season median forecast level of abundance. At the meeting today, the run size estimate of 166,000 for the Early Summer run with a marine timing through Area 20 of July 20 was unchanged. Consequently, no sockeye directed fisheries are being planned by either country. Summer-run stocks currently comprise most of the sockeye migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait and Johnstone Strait. Assessments of Summer-run sockeye abundance should be available in August after their peak migration through marine assessment areas.
On August 3rd the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 2,870 m3/s, which is approximately 31% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 3rd was 18.60C, which is 0.60C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Tuesday, August 8th, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/9276/aug-4-2017.pdf
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Subject: FN0784-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - August 4, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met on Friday, August 4 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Gill net test fishing catches remain low but have improved slightly Area 12 and
have continued to fluctuate at low levels in Area 20. Purse seine test catches
have shown the same pattern with increases in Area 12 and 13, while Area 20 has
been on a declining trend. The combination of the gill net and purse seine test
catches in the two approach areas has resulted in an increase in the projected
diversion rate through Johnstone Strait to 58% compared to the pre-season
forecast of 51%.
In-river gill net test fishery catches have remained low, with the exception of
a large increase observed at Whonnock yesterday. Cottonwood catches have been
very low for the past several days.
The most recent DNA samples taken in the marine purse seine test fisheries show
sockeye stock compositions in Area 20 of approximately 14% Early Summer, 77%
Summer and 8% Late run stocks. In Area 12, the purse seine stock composition
was 10% Early Summer, 83% Summer and 7% Late run stocks. In-river stock
identification information remains highly uncertain as sample sizes continue to
be extremely low.
Daily Mission hydroacoustics escapement estimates have increased in recent days
with the largest daily escapement estimate to date being 16,100 on August 3.
The total estimated sockeye escapement as of August 3 is 167,700. Hell's Gate
observations continue to be extremely low in recent days however there is no
evidence of passage issues at Hell's Gate.
During the call today, the Fraser Panel made no changes to the Early Stuart or
Early Summer run sizes of 50,000 and 166,000 respectively. The estimated
escapement past Mission of Early Stuart, Early Summer and Summer run sockeye as
of August 3 is 45,300, 52,900 and 69,100 fish, respectively.
At the current run size for Early Summer run sockeye, there is no TAC available
and as such no sockeye directed fisheries are being considered at this time. In
addition, Summer run stocks are tracking near the p10 forecast level of
1,065,000, however, it is too early to make any run size modifications at this
time.
On August 3, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 2,870 cubic metres
per second, which is approximately 31% lower than average for this date. The
water temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 3 decreased to
18.6° celcius which is 0.6° celcius higher than average for this date. The
forecast is for water temperatures to increase to 20° celcius by August 9. Due
to the very low discharge levels, water temperatures are highly influenced by
air temperatures.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel had adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, and anticipated river
entry dates for Late run fish. Due to the very poor return of Early Summer run
stocks they are now being managed based on a Low Abundance Exploitation Rate
(LAER) limit and as such there will be no modifications to the in-season
management adjustments for this group. Management adjustments are additional
fish that are set aside from identified harvest levels and allowed to migrate
upstream in an attempt to assist in achievement of identified spawner
objectives for the different run timing groups. In-season information in the
coming weeks will help to inform future decisions on management adjustments for
the Summer management group while the Early Stuart, Early Summer and Late run
management groups will be managed based on the respective LAER for each group
(10% for Early Stuart and Early Summers and 20% for Lates). There will be no in-
season estimates of management adjustment for Early Stuart, Early Summer and
Late run groups in 2017.
At this time, it is too early to assess the return of Fraser pink salmon.
Recent test fishery catches in the marine approach areas have shown increasing
abundances of pink salmon. The first stock identification samples analyzed for
Areas 12 and 20 purse seine test fisheries indicate Fraser origin pink salmon
comprise 24 and 16 percent respectively. Run size and timing updates for Fraser
pinks will likely begin in mid to late August.
First Nations food, social and ceremonial sockeye fisheries have been
restricted by a 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart and the earliest
timed Early Summer run stocks with limited fishing opportunities to date
directed at chinook salmon. Due to the apparent later than average run timing
and/or weakness in the returns of Early Summer and Summer run stocks, the start-
up of sockeye directed FSC fisheries will continue to be delayed until there is
an identification of TAC for Early Summer and/or Summer run sockeye.
Food, social and ceremonial fishers in marine approach areas as well as the
Fraser River are requested to check for the opening times and any restrictions
in their local area.
Given the low returns to date there are no fisheries directed upon Fraser River
sockeye scheduled at this time, and updates will continue to be provided
following meetings of the Fraser River Panel on Tuesdays and Fridays of each
week.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Tuesday, August 8, 2017.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Nener 604-666-0789
Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN0784
Sent August 4, 2017 at 1550
Return to Main
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Subject: FN0792-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - August 8, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met on Tuesday, August 8 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Gill net test fishing catches of sockeye improved in both marine and in-river
test areas in recent days. Purse seine test catches in Areas 12 and 13
increased substantially in the most recent days, while Area 20 catches remained
very low. The combination of the gill net and purse seine test catches in the
two approach areas has resulted in a slight increase in the projected diversion
rate through Johnstone Strait to 60% compared to the pre-season forecast of
51%.
The most recent DNA samples taken in the marine purse seine test fisheries show
sockeye stock compositions in Area 20 of approximately 9% Early Summer, 89%
Summer and 2% Late run stocks. In Area 12, the purse seine stock composition
was 12% Early Summer, 80% Summer and 9% Late run stocks. In-river stock
identification information remains highly uncertain ranging between 3% and 30%
for Early Summers and 97% and 70% Summers for Whonnock and Cottonwood test
fisheries respectively.
Daily Mission hydroacoustics escapement estimates have increased in recent days
with the largest daily escapement estimate to date being 19,300 on August 4.
The total estimated sockeye escapement as of August 7 is 252,000. Hell's Gate
observations have increased in recent days.
During the call today, the Fraser Panel reduced the run size for Early Stuart
sockeye to 46,000 with a 50% peak date in Area 20 of July 4 as the run is now
considered to be complete. The Panel also reduced the run size for Early
Summers to 125,000 with an Area 20 peak date of July 31 as abundances continue
to be much lower than expected. No changes were made to the Summer run size at
this time although it is tracking at or below the p10 forecast level of
1,065,000 fish. At the current run size for Early Summer and Summer run
sockeye, there is no TAC available and as such no sockeye directed fisheries
are being considered at this time. The estimated escapement past Mission of
Early Stuart, Early Summer and Summer run sockeye as of August 7 is 46,000,
67,600 and 137,200 fish, respectively.
On August 7, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 2,811 cubic metres
per second, which is approximately 27% lower than average for this date. The
water temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 7 increased to
19.2° Celsius which is 1.1° Celsius higher than average for this date. The
forecast is for water temperatures to increase to 20.5° Celsius by August 13.
Due to the very low discharge levels, water temperatures are highly influenced
by air temperatures.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel had adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, and anticipated river
entry dates for Late run fish. Due to the very poor return of Early Summer run
stocks they are now being managed based on a Low Abundance Exploitation Rate
(LAER) limit and as such there will be no modifications to the in-season
management adjustments for this group. If the Summer run continues to track
current levels it will also be in a LAER management approach which would result
in no changes to the management adjustment for this group as well. Management
adjustments are additional fish that are set aside from identified harvest
levels and allowed to migrate upstream in an attempt to assist in achievement
of identified spawner objectives for the different run timing groups. In-season
information in the coming weeks will help to inform future decisions on
management adjustments for the Summer management group while the Early Stuart,
Early Summer and Late run management groups will be managed based on the
respective LAER for each group (10% for Early Stuart and Early Summers and 20%
for Lates). There will be no in-season estimates of management adjustment for
Early Stuart, Early Summer and Late run groups and possibly Summer run fish as
well in 2017.
At this time, it is too early to assess the return of Fraser pink salmon.
Recent test fishery catches in the marine approach areas have shown increasing
abundances of pink salmon. The first stock identification samples analyzed for
Areas 12 and 20 purse seine test fisheries indicate Fraser origin pink salmon
comprise 35% and 32%, respectively. Run size and timing updates for Fraser
pinks will likely begin in mid to late August.
First Nations food, social and ceremonial sockeye fisheries have been
restricted by a 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart and the earliest
timed Early Summer run stocks with limited fishing opportunities to date
directed at chinook salmon. Due to the apparent later than average run timing
and/or weakness in the returns of Early Summer and Summer run stocks, the start-
up of sockeye directed FSC fisheries will continue to be delayed until there is
an identification of TAC for Early Summer and/or Summer run sockeye.
Food, social and ceremonial fishers in marine approach areas as well as the
Fraser River are requested to check for the opening times and any restrictions
in their local area.
Given the low returns to date there are no fisheries directed upon Fraser River
sockeye scheduled at this time, and updates will continue to be provided
following meetings of the Fraser River Panel on Tuesdays and Fridays of each
week.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Friday, August 11, 2017.
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Subject: FN0806-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - August 11, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met on Friday, August 11 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Gill net test fishing catches of sockeye declined for the past several days in
Area 20 with August 10 being the last day of operation for this test fishery in
2017. The Area 12 gill net test fishery was also having lower catches for a
number of days with a slight improvement yesterday. During the panel call today
the decision was made to end this test fishery on Sunday, August 13 and the
Area 13 purse seine test fishery on Monday, August 14 as scheduled. In-river
gill net test catches have been improving in both testing areas but are still
much lower than expected.
Purse seine test catches of sockeye in Areas 12 and 13 have fluctuated
considerably in the recent days, while Area 20 catches continue to decline. The
combination of the gill net and purse seine test catches in the two approach
areas has resulted in an increase in the projected sockeye diversion rate
through Johnstone Strait to 75% compared to the pre-season forecast of 51%. The.
The most recent DNA samples taken in the marine purse seine test fisheries show
sockeye stock compositions in Area 20 of approximately 6% Early Summer, 78%
Summer and 16% Late run stocks. In Area 12, the purse seine stock composition
was 9% Early Summer, 77% Summer and 14% Late run stocks. The decrease in
proportion of Early Summer run stocks combined with the increase in the
proportion of Late run stocks is suggesting that the total return of Fraser
sockeye may be similar to normal run timing for this cycle. In-river stock
identification samples have been increasing recently with the most current
sample suggesting stock proportions of 6% Early Summer, 94% Summer and 0% Late
run stocks.
Daily Mission hydroacoustics escapement estimates have continued to increase in
recent days with the largest daily escapement estimate to date being 47,100 on
August 9. The total estimated sockeye escapement as of August 10 is 386,500.
Hell's Gate observations have also increased considerably in recent days.
During the call today, the Fraser Panel made no additional changes to the run
size for Early Stuart and Early Summer run sockeye. Due to the continued poor
showing of Summer run stocks the Fraser Panel adopted a provisional run size of
1,250,000 with a median timing of August 14 in Area 20. At the current run size
for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, there is no TAC available and as such
only fisheries with minimal impact on sockeye are being considered at this
time. The estimated escapement past Mission of Early Stuart, Early Summer,
Summer and Late run sockeye as of August 10 is 46,800, 88,200 and 245,400 and
6,100 fish, respectively.
On August 10, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 2,740 cubic metres
per second, which is approximately 26% lower than average for this date. The
water temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 10 increased
to 19.5° Celsius which is 1.3° Celsius higher than average for this date. The
forecast is for water temperatures to decrease to 19.3° Celsius by August 16 as
cooler air temperatures combined with precipitation is forecast in the coming
days. Due to the very low discharge levels, water temperatures are highly
influenced by air temperatures.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel had adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, and anticipated river
entry dates for Late run fish. Due to the very poor return of Early Summer and
Summer run stocks they are now being managed based on a Low Abundance
Exploitation Rate (LAER) limit and as such there will be no modifications to
the in-season management adjustments for this group. Management adjustments are
additional fish that are set aside from identified harvest levels and allowed
to migrate upstream in an attempt to assist in achievement of identified
spawner objectives for the different run timing groups. No in-season changes
to the management adjustment are expected for Early Stuart, Early Summer,
Summer and Late run groups in 2017.
At this time, it continues to be too early to assess the return of Fraser pink
salmon. Recent test fishery catches in the marine approach areas have shown
increasing abundances of pink salmon primarily in the Johnstone Strait area.
The most recent stock identification samples analyzed for Areas 12 and 20 purse
seine test fisheries indicate Fraser origin pink salmon comprise 35% and 32%,
respectively. Based on the most recent purse seine test catches the estimated
diversion rate through Johnstone Strait for Fraser pink salmon is estimated to
be 86% compared to the historical median of 50%. Run size and timing updates
for Fraser pinks will likely begin in mid to late August.
First Nations food, social and ceremonial sockeye fisheries have been
restricted by a 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart and the earliest
timed Early Summer run stocks with limited fishing opportunities in-river to
date directed at Chinook salmon. Sockeye encountered in these fisheries are
accounted for as part of the Low Abundance Exploitation Rate.
Food, social and ceremonial fishers in marine approach areas as well as the
Fraser River are requested to check for the opening times and any restrictions
in their local area.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Tuesday, August 15, 2017.
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is pink salmon fishing open? or will they close it to protect sockeye again? What sockeye goes after spoons anyway?
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is pink salmon fishing open? or will they close it to protect sockeye again? What sockeye goes after spoons anyway?
For Pinks in the Fraser? No opening yet. In fact there is no salmon fishing permitted in the Fraser at this time.
Past years that had good Pink returns, I think they were open sometime late August. If the numbers support an opening this year expect sometime around Labour day or a bit after but it is still too early to tell. Bulk of the Fraser pink run isn't until early-mid Sept anyways.
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"Based on the most recent purse seine test catches the estimated
diversion rate through Johnstone Strait for Fraser pink salmon is estimated to
be 86% compared to the historical median of 50%. Run size and timing updates
for Fraser pinks will likely begin in mid to late August."
Does this mean the North Arm of the Fraser will get more pinks this year than the south arm?
-
There’s gillnet fishing going on now in the lower Fraser River.
-
"Based on the most recent purse seine test catches the estimated
diversion rate through Johnstone Strait for Fraser pink salmon is estimated to
be 86% compared to the historical median of 50%. Run size and timing updates
for Fraser pinks will likely begin in mid to late August."
Does this mean the North Arm of the Fraser will get more pinks this year than the south arm?
Unlikely, the fish divert through the inside because of more favourable water temperature.
Most still go to the South Arm based on scent or whatever else they are using to navigate.
Tried to find some info on diversion rates - highly varied throughout the decades.
As low as 20% diversion rate (most go outside) in some years.
1986 report: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/Library/119046.pdf
1996 report: http://www.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/library/254654.pdf
Note that these were "off" years for Fraser pinks - most fish are going to the Island or further south.
-
There’s gillnet fishing going on now in the lower Fraser River.
some of the 1st Nations groups have openings to take springs for Food and Ceremonial use. They are supposed to use large mesh to avoid other species.
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Subject: FN0817-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - August 15, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met on Tuesday, August 15 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
In-river gill net test catches have fluctuated in recent days but are still
much lower than expected.
Purse seine test catches of sockeye in Areas 12 continue to fluctuate at
moderate levels with the largest catch of the year occurring yesterday, August
14. In Area 20 catches continue to fluctuate at low levels. The purse seine
test catches in the two approach areas has resulted in a slight decrease in the
projected sockeye diversion rate through Johnstone Strait to 74% compared to
the pre-season forecast of 51%.
The most recent DNA samples taken in the marine purse seine test fisheries show
sockeye stock compositions in Area 20 of approximately 3% Early Summer, 85%
Summer and 12% Late run stocks. In Area 12, the purse seine stock composition
was 5% Early Summer, 87% Summer and 8% Late run stocks. The decrease in
proportion of Early Summer run stocks combined with the increase in the
proportion of Late run stocks is suggesting that the total return of Fraser
sockeye may have normal run timing for this cycle. The most recent in-river
stock identification samples from the Whonnock test fishery are showing stock
proportions of 6% Early Summer, 83% Summer and 11% Late run stocks.
Daily Mission hydroacoustics escapement estimates have decreased in recent days
ranging between 30,700 and 48,700. The total estimated sockeye escapement as of
August 14 is 549,100. Hell's Gate observations have continued to increase in
recent days.
During the call today, the Fraser Panel made no additional changes to the run
size for Early Stuart, Early Summer or Summer run sockeye. At the current run
size for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, there is no TAC available and as
such only fisheries with minimal impact on sockeye are being considered at this
time. The estimated escapement past Mission of Early Stuart, Early Summer,
Summer and Late run sockeye as of August 14 is 46,400, 100,000 and 382,600 and
20,100 fish, respectively.
On August 14, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 2,571 cubic metres
per second, which is approximately 26% lower than average for this date. The
water temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 14 increased
to 19.7° Celsius which is 1.6° Celsius higher than average for this date. The
forecast is for water temperatures to decrease to 18.9° Celsius by August 20 as
cooler air temperatures combined with precipitation is forecast in the coming
days. Due to the very low discharge levels, water temperatures are highly
influenced by air temperatures.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel had adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, and anticipated river
entry dates for Late run fish. Due to the very poor return of Early Summer and
Summer run stocks they are now being managed based on a Low Abundance
Exploitation Rate (LAER) limit and as such there will be no modifications to
the in-season management adjustments for this group. Management adjustments are
additional fish that are set aside from identified harvest levels and allowed
to migrate upstream in an attempt to assist in achievement of identified
spawner objectives for the different run timing groups. No in-season changes to
the management adjustment are expected for Early Stuart, Early Summer, Summer
and Late run groups in 2017.
At this time, it continues to be too early to assess the return of Fraser pink
salmon. Recent test fishery catches in the marine approach areas have shown
increasing abundances of pink salmon primarily in the Johnstone Strait area.
The most recent stock identification samples analyzed for Areas 12 and 20 purse
seine test fisheries indicate Fraser origin pink salmon comprise 30% and 44%,
respectively. Based on the most recent purse seine test catches the estimated
diversion rate through Johnstone Strait for Fraser pink salmon is estimated to
be 80% compared to the historical median of 50%. Run size and timing updates
for Fraser pinks will likely begin in mid to late August.
First Nations food, social and ceremonial sockeye fisheries were restricted by
a 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart and the earliest timed Early
Summer run stocks with limited fishing opportunities in-river to date directed
at Chinook salmon. Sockeye encountered in these fisheries are accounted for as
part of the Low Abundance Exploitation Rate.
Food, social and ceremonial fishers in marine approach areas as well as the
Fraser River are requested to check for the opening times and any restrictions
in their local area.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Friday, August 18, 2017.
-
Tuesday, August 15th, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, August 15th to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Test fishing catches and daily escapements continue to track below the pre-season expectations. Summer-run stocks currently comprise most of the sockeye migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait and Johnstone Strait, but the daily abundance of the summer run is tracking below the median forecast. At the meeting today, the currently adopted Summer-run run size of 1,250,000, with marine timing through Area 20 of August 14th, was left unchanged. The Late run is also tracking below the p25, but it is still early to estimate the Late-run run size. Consequently, no sockeye directed fisheries are being planned by either country.
On August 14th the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 2,571 m3/s, which is approximately 26% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 14th was 19.70C, which is 1.60C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Friday, August 18th, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/9284/aug-15-2017.pdf
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"All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing."
I'm assuming it is the majority of area 29 that is closed and not the rest of the inside and outside areas of the BC coast is closed for commercial ?. Yes I understand there are open and closed areas on our coast . Can we be more specific or is DFO trying to make it confusing to read into . What is the "Panel Area "
Who are these "Panel People " ;)
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/Fos2_Internet/commercialSM/salmonCatchStats.cfm?year=2017
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The "Panel" is run by the Pacific Salmon Commission (psc.org in the link).
It is made up of select people from BC and Washington state and the Panel Area is both BC and Washington (could go further south too).
http://www.psc.org/about-us/
These reports are specific to Sockeye salmon and to some extent, pink salmon.
There's plenty of Chinook commercial fishing going on and there will probably be pink and Chum commercial fishing in the Fraser in the coming months. I believe there may have been a commercial Sockeye opening in Barkley Sound.
-
Friday, August 18th, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Friday, August 18th to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Test fishing catches and daily escapements continue to track below pre-season expectations. The Fraser River Panel adopted an Early Summer run size of 150,000 with marine timing through Area 20 of August 2nd. Summer-run stocks currently comprise most of the sockeye migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait and Johnstone Strait, but the daily abundance of the Summer run is tracking below median forecast levels. At the meeting today, the currently adopted Summer-run run size of 1,250,000, with marine timing through Area 20 of August 14th, was left unchanged. Daily abundances of Late-run sockeye are also tracking below their median forecast levels, and the Panel adopted the p25 forecast of 247,000 for the Late-run run size with marine timing of Aug. 18th. Consequently, no sockeye directed fisheries are being planned by either country.
On August 17th the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 2,505 m3/s, which is approximately 23% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 17th was 19.00C, which is 0.90C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Tuesday, August 22nd, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/9289/aug-18-2017.pdf
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Subject: FN0836-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - August 18, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met on Friday, August 18 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
In-river gill net test catches of sockeye have been consistent at low to
moderate levels for several days while purse seine test catches in Areas 12 and
20 have increased over the past week with the exception of yesterday when
catches declined in both areas. The purse seine test catches in the two
approach areas has resulted in a slight increase in the projected sockeye
diversion rate through Johnstone Strait to 78% compared to the pre-season
forecast of 51%.
The most recent DNA samples taken in the marine purse seine test fisheries show
sockeye stock compositions in Area 20 of approximately 2% Early Summer, 71%
Summer and 27% Late run stocks. In Area 12, the purse seine stock composition
was 6% Early Summer, 70% Summer and 23% Late run stocks. The decrease in
proportion of Early Summer run stocks combined with the continuation of summer
run stocks and increase in the proportion of Late run stocks is suggesting that
the total return of Fraser sockeye may have later than normal run timing. The
most recent in-river stock identification samples from the Whonnock test
fishery are showing stock proportions of 8% Early Summer, 83% Summer and 9%
Late run stocks.
Daily Mission hydroacoustics escapement estimates of sockeye have increased in
recent days ranging between 30,400 and 56,900. The total estimated sockeye
escapement as of August 17 is 707,900. Hell's Gate observations have continued
to increase in recent days.
During the call today, the Fraser Panel increased the run size for Early Summer
run sockeye to 150,000 with August 2 timing, due to recent increases in the
abundance of Pitt and early Thompson stocks. No changes were made to the run
size for Early Stuart and Summer run stocks while a provisional run size of
247,000 was adopted for Late run sockeye with a timing of August 18. At the
current run size for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye, there is no TAC
available and as such only fisheries with minimal impact on sockeye are being
considered at this time. The estimated escapement past Mission of Early Stuart,
Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye as of August 17 is 46,400, 128,900
and 495,300 and 37,300 fish, respectively.
On August 17, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 2,505 cubic metres
per second, which is approximately 23% lower than average for this date. The
water temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 17 decreased
to 19° Celsius which is 0.9° Celsius higher than average for this date. The
forecast is for water temperatures to decrease to 18.7° Celsius by August 23 as
cooler air temperatures combined with precipitation is forecast in the coming
days. Due to the very low discharge levels, water temperatures are highly
influenced by air temperatures.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel had adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, and anticipated river
entry dates for Late run fish. Due to the very poor return of Early Summer and
Summer run stocks they are now being managed based on a Low Abundance
Exploitation Rate (LAER) limit and as such there will be no modifications to
the in-season management adjustments for this group. Management adjustments are
additional fish that are set aside from identified harvest levels and allowed
to migrate upstream in an attempt to assist in achievement of identified
spawner objectives for the different run timing groups. No in-season changes to
the management adjustment are expected for Early Stuart, Early Summer, Summer
and Late run groups in 2017.
At this time the return of Fraser pink salmon is looking to be either early,
larger than forecast or both. Recent test fishery catches in the marine
approach areas have shown increasing abundances of pink salmon primarily in the
Johnstone Strait area. The most recent stock identification samples analyzed
for Areas 12 and 20 purse seine test fisheries indicate Fraser origin pink
salmon comprise 30% and 44%, respectively. Based on the most recent purse seine
test catches the estimated diversion rate through Johnstone Strait for Fraser
pink salmon is estimated to be 44% compared to the historical median of 50%.
Run size and timing updates for Fraser pinks are likely to be made in the
coming weeks.
Earlier in the season First Nations food, social and ceremonial sockeye
fisheries were restricted by a 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart
and the earliest timed Early Summer run stocks with limited fishing
opportunities in-river directed at Chinook salmon. These Chinook directed
fisheries are continuing to occur on a weekly basis for the near future in both
the lower and mid-river fishing areas up to Lillooet and in portions of the
Thompson River drainage. Areas in the Fraser River upstream of Lillooet have
been severely impacted by the numerous forest fires this season which have
prevented many First Nations from any fishing to date. As a result the
department is allowing for limited sockeye directed fishing opportunities for a
modest number of sockeye in a number of locations as no other species of salmon
are available for harvest in these areas. In inside coastal waters, very little
fishing has occurred in areas where Fraser sockeye are prevalent as sockeye non-
retention restrictions have been in place since the beginning of the season.
Earlier this week an 18 hour opening was scheduled in marine areas directed at
pink, chum and Chinook salmon with retention of dead sockeye permitted. In this
fishery all efforts were to be made to release sockeye alive and unharmed (see
FN0819 for details). Sockeye encountered and kept or released in all these
fisheries are accounted for as part of the Low Abundance Exploitation Rate.
Food, social and ceremonial fishers in marine approach areas as well as the
Fraser River are requested to check for the opening times and any restrictions
in their local area.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Tuesday, August 22, 2017.
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Mid-Season BC Salmon Update
Posted by Trish Hall on August 15, 2017
By Greg Taylor, Senior Fisheries Advisor
https://www.watershed-watch.org/2017/08/mid-season-bc-salmon-update/?sp_ref=328601276.392.182716.f.0.2
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It's pretty clear which (2) Sectors of the Fishing Community are Causing the MOST IMPACT on the SALMON. (Out side of Environmental issues)
1) Commercial
2) FN
* They continue to SCAPEGOAT / BULLY the RECREATIONAL FISHERMAN. Easy Enforcement.....
So nice this site has an Ignore member feature, you can find it under your profile!
Excerpts:
As mentioned previously, DFO may have been too aggressive in allowing net fishing openings for pink salmon in Area 3 (near the mouth of the Nass River) and Area 6 (Douglas Channel and outside waters), especially with evidence of poor catches in its own fisheries, and terrible pink harvests just north of the border in Southern SE Alaska, at hand. When a very small fleet, comprised of some of BC’s best seine fishermen, struggle to half-load their boats, it is pretty good evidence that there is not many fish around.
------
DFO has not taken similar direct coastwide action to protect BC’s wild chinook salmon. Under duress from First Nations’ legal action, and the threat of additional legal action, they have only promised to initiate a review of their management of Fraser chinook.
Monitoring and Enforcement
Last season, DFO’s Conservation & Protection (C&P) Division made significant efforts to enforce compliance with commercial fishing regulations. Controversy erupted in Prince Rupert after C&P found flagrant disregard of the requirement to release salmon species of conservation concern “to the water with the least possible harm.” Fishermen argued their ability to earn a living was being eroded in favour of conservation.
Industry’s argument appears to have prevailed in 2017. There is little C&P presence on the water. C&P argues (and there is no denying it) that they do not have the resources to monitor and enforce commercial fisheries. C&P is mandated to employ an industry funded at-sea monitoring program that uses independent third-party observers. The at-sea observer program was promised in this year’s fishing plan yet numerous fisheries have been authorized throughout the north and central coasts without an effective monitoring or enforcement presence.
Some form of industry funded observer or other fishery independent monitoring presence is standard practice in most non-salmon commercial fisheries, even in BC. The lack of effective monitoring or enforcement in BC’s salmon fisheries, where DFO requires the discarding of salmon populations of conservation concern, speaks either to the political power of the recreational and commercial fishing lobbies; a lack of political leadership when it comes to managing Pacific salmon fisheries in the public interest; that managers are ‘captured’ by their clients rather than the public interest; or Conservation and Protection is not honouring their mandate. Likely, it is some combination of the above factors.
-
FN catch to date for Lower Fraser
http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/fraser/abor-autoc-eng.html
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fraserriver/firstnations/PDFs/ChinookKeptCatch.pdf
(http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fraserriver/firstnations/PDFs/ChinookKeptCatch.pdf)
http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fraserriver/firstnations/PDFs/SockeyeKeptCatch.pdf (http://www-ops2.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fraserriver/firstnations/PDFs/SockeyeKeptCatch.pdf)
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Tuesday, August 22nd, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Tuesday, August 22nd to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and pink salmon and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Test fishing catches and daily escapements continue to track below pre-season expectations. Summer-run stocks currently comprise most of the sockeye migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait and Johnstone Strait, but estimates of Late-run proportions are increasing. The daily abundance of Summer-run sockeye continues to track below median forecast levels. At the meeting today, the currently adopted Summer-run run size of 1,250,000, with marine timing through Area 20 of August 14th, remained unchanged. Daily abundances of Late-run sockeye are also tracking below their median forecast levels, and the currently adopted Late-run run size of 247,000, with marine timing of Aug. 18th, was left unchanged.
On August 21st the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 2,151 m3/s, which is approximately 28% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 21st was 18.10C, which is 0.30C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye and pink salmon escapement goals.
CANADIAN FRASER RIVER PANEL AREA WATERS:
Remain closed to Commercial salmon fisheries.
UNITED STATES FRASER RIVER PANEL AREA WATERS:
TREATY INDIAN FISHERY:
Areas 4B, 5 and 6C: Open drift gillnets 12:00 p.m. (noon), Wednesday, August 23, 2017, through 12:00 p.m. (noon), Saturday, August 26, 2017. Sockeye may be retained for ceremonial and subsistence purposes only.
Areas 6/7/7A: Open to reef nets 5:00 am – 9pm, Wednesday, August 23, 2017, 5:00 am – 9pm, Thursday, August 24, and 5:00 am – 9pm, Friday August 25, 2017. Sockeye may be retained for ceremonial and subsistence purposes only.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Friday, August 25th, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/9292/aug-22-2017.pdf
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Subject: FN0849-Salmon - Fraser River Sockeye and Pink Update - Areas 11 to 29 - August 22, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met on Tuesday, August 22 to receive an update on the
migration of the Fraser sockeye and pink runs to date and review the status of
migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
In-river gill net test catches of sockeye have fluctuated in recent days while
purse seine test catches in Areas 12 and 20 have decreased considerably over
the past 5 days. The purse seine test catches in the two approach areas has
resulted in a slight increase in the projected sockeye diversion rate through
Johnstone Strait to 81% compared to the pre-season forecast of 51%.
The most recent DNA samples taken in the marine purse seine test fisheries show
sockeye stock compositions in Area 20 of approximately 3% Early Summer, 67%
Summer and 30% Late run stocks. In Area 12, the purse seine stock composition
was 3% Early Summer, 55% Summer and 42% Late run stocks. The decrease in
proportion of Early Summer run stocks combined with the increase in the
proportion of Late run stocks continues to indicate the total return of Fraser
sockeye is later than normal run timing. The most recent in-river stock
identification samples from the Whonnock test fishery are showing stock
proportions of 2% Early Summer, 82% Summer and 16% Late run stocks.
Daily Mission hydroacoustics escapement estimates of sockeye continue to
increase ranging between 46,400 and 76,000 during the most recent 5 days
period. The total estimated sockeye escapement as of August 21 is 7981,700.
Hell's Gate observations have fluctuated considerably in recent days.
During the call today no changes were made to the run size for any of the run
timing groups although the summer run is currently tracking slightly lower than
the current adopted run size of 1.25 million. At the current run size for
Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye, there is no TAC available and as
such only fisheries with minimal impact on sockeye are being considered at this
time. The estimated escapement past Mission of Early Stuart, Early Summer,
Summer and Late run sockeye as of August 21 is 46,400, 143,100 and 732,000 and
60,200 fish, respectively.
On August 21, the Fraser River water discharge at Hope was 2,151 cubic metres
per second, which is approximately 28% lower than average for this date. The
water temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 21 decreased
to 18.1° Celsius which is 0.3° Celsius higher than average for this date. The
forecast is for water temperatures to decrease to 17.9° Celsius by August 27.
Due to the very low discharge levels, water temperatures are highly influenced
by air temperatures.
For pre-season planning purposes the Fraser Panel had adopted management
adjustments for Early Summer, Summer and Late run sockeye that reflect the
forecast water temperature and discharge conditions based on the May and June
information for Early Summer and Summer run sockeye, and anticipated river
entry dates for Late run fish. Due to the very poor return of Early Summer and
Summer run stocks they are now being managed based on a Low Abundance
Exploitation Rate (LAER) limit and as such there will be no modifications to
the in-season management adjustments for this group. Management adjustments are
additional fish that are set aside from identified harvest levels and allowed
to migrate upstream in an attempt to assist in achievement of identified
spawner objectives for the different run timing groups. No in-season changes
to the management adjustment are expected for Early Stuart, Early Summer,
Summer and Late run groups in 2017.
Recent declines in the test fishery catches in the two approach areas is
suggesting that the return of Fraser pink salmon may be less than the p50
however it remains too early to adopt a formal run size change as the forecast
50% run timing date is August 28. The most recent stock identification samples
analyzed for Areas 12 and 20 purse seine test fisheries indicate Fraser origin
pink salmon comprise 51% and 68%, respectively. Based on the most recent purse
seine test catches the estimated diversion rate through Johnstone Strait for
Fraser pink salmon has increased to 51% compared to the historical median of
50%. Run size and timing updates for Fraser pinks are likely to be made in the
coming weeks.
Earlier in the season First Nations food, social and ceremonial sockeye
fisheries were restricted by a 4 week window closure protecting Early Stuart
and the earliest timed Early Summer run stocks with limited fishing
opportunities in-river directed at Chinook salmon. These Chinook directed
fisheries may continue to occur on a weekly basis for the near future in both
the lower and mid-river fishing areas up to Lillooet and in portions of the
Thompson River drainage, until the coho window closure comes into effect. Areas
in the Fraser River upstream of Lillooet have been severely impacted by the
numerous forest fires this season which have prevented many First Nations from
any fishing to date. As a result the department is allowing for limited sockeye
directed fishing opportunities for a modest number of sockeye in a number of
locations as no other species of salmon are available for harvest in these
areas. In inside coastal waters, an 18 hour opportunity to retain dead sockeye
was permitted last week in marine areas in FSC fisheries directed at pink, chum
and chinook salmon. Sockeye encountered and kept or released in all these
fisheries are accounted for as part of the Low Abundance Exploitation Rate.
Food, social and ceremonial fishers in marine approach areas as well as the
Fraser River are requested to check for the opening times and any restrictions
in their local area.
The next in-season meeting of the Fraser River Panel is scheduled to occur on
Friday, August 25, 2017.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Jennifer Nener 604-666-0789
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"The decrease in proportion of Early Summer run stocks combined with the increase in the
proportion of Late run stocks continues to indicate the total return of Fraser
sockeye is later than normal run timing."
I'm feeling a little nervous- is this a hint to the possibility of a Fraser closure that goes well into September- i.e., no opportunity to fish for pinks in the Fraser? Like Rod said earlier, I guess it's a signal to take on areas other than the Fraser. I hate to think of the pressure put on these other areas. :P
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Thursday, August 24th, 2017
A small group of the Fraser River Panel met Thursday, August 24th to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and pink salmon and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Test fishing catches and daily escapements continue to track below pre-season expectations. Summer-run stocks currently comprise most of the sockeye migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait and Johnstone Strait, but estimates of the Late-run proportions have decreased relative to estimates from earlier samples. Daily abundances of Summer-run and Late-run sockeye continue to track below median forecast levels.
On August 23rd the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 2,121 m3/s, which is approximately 27% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 23rd was 18.60C, which is 0.90C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye and pink salmon escapement goals.
CANADIAN FRASER RIVER PANEL AREA WATERS:
Remain closed to Commercial salmon fisheries.
UNITED STATES FRASER RIVER PANEL AREA WATERS:
TREATY INDIAN FISHERY:
Areas 7:
Open to reefnets 5:00 am – 9 pm, Saturday, August 26, 2017. Sockeye may be retained for ceremonial and subsistence purposes only.
Areas 6/7/7A:
Open to purse seines and gillnets from 5:00 am, Friday, August 25, 2017 to 9 am, Saturday, August 26. Sockeye may be retained for ceremonial and subsistence purposes only.
ALL CITIZEN FISHERY:
Areas 7 and 7A
Open to reefnets with non-retention of sockeye, 5:00 am – 9pm, Friday, August 25, 2017, and 5:00 am – 9pm, Saturday, August 26, 2017.
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Friday, August 25th, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/9294/aug-24-2017.pdf
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Friday, August 25th, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Friday, August 25th to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and pink salmon and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Daily abundances of Summer-run and Late-run Fraser River sockeye migrating through Johnstone and Juan de Fuca Straits have been decreasing over the past week and continue to track below median forecast levels. At today’s meeting, the Panel decreased the run size estimate for the Summer run to 1,000,000 with a 50% marine timing through Area 20 of August 11. Summer-run stocks currently comprise most of the sockeye migrating through the Juan de Fuca Strait and Johnstone Strait, but estimates of the Late-run proportions have increased, in Area 20, relative to estimates from earlier samples.
On August 24th the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 2,088m3/s, which is approximately 26% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on August 24th was 18.60C, which is 1.00C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye and pink salmon escapement goals.
CANADIAN FRASER RIVER PANEL AREA WATERS:
Remain closed to Commercial salmon fisheries.
UNITED STATES FRASER RIVER PANEL AREA WATERS:
TREATY INDIAN FISHERY:
Areas 4B, 5 and 6C: As previously announced, open to drift gillnets 12:00 p.m. (noon), Wednesday, August 23, 2017, through 12:00 p.m. (noon), Saturday, August 26, 2017. Sockeye may be retained for ceremonial and subsistence purposes only.
Areas 7: As previously announced, open to reefnets 5:00 am – 9 pm, Saturday, August 26, 2017. Sockeye may be retained for ceremonial and subsistence purposes only.
Areas 6/7/7A: As previously announced, open to purse seines and gillnets from 5:00 am, Friday, August 25, 2017 to 9 am, Saturday,
August 26. Sockeye may be retained for ceremonial and subsistence purposes only.
ALL CITIZEN FISHERY:
Areas 7 and 7A: As previously announced, open to reefnets with non-retention of sockeye, 5:00 am – 9pm, Friday, August 25, 2017, and 5:00 am – 9pm, Saturday, August 26, 2017.
(Note: U.S. All Citizen fishers should check the U.S. hotline and WDFW regulations before fishing as there are additional State of Washington regulations, including time restrictions that may be in effect).
The next in-season meeting of the Panel is scheduled to occur on Monday, August 28, 2017.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/9295/aug-25-2017.pdf
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Friday, September 8th, 2017
The Fraser River Panel met Friday, September 8th to receive an update on the migration of Fraser River sockeye and pink salmon and review the status of migration conditions in the Fraser River watershed.
Daily abundances of Fraser sockeye continue to track below median forecast levels, as do daily abundances of pink salmon. At the meeting today, the panel adopted an Early Stuart run size of 47,000 with marine timing of July 4th, an Early Summer run size of 165,000 with marine timing of August 4th, a Summer run size of 1,044,000 with marine timing of August 11th, a Late run size of 231,000 with marine timing of August 16th, and a pink salmon run-size of 3,700,000, with a 50% marine timing through Area 20 of August 19th.
On September 7th the discharge of the Fraser River at Hope was 1,884 m3/s, which is approximately 21% below average for this date. The temperature of the Fraser River at Qualark Creek on September 7th was 18.10C, which is 2.10C higher than average for this date. Fraser River discharge levels and water temperatures will be monitored closely to determine if specific management actions are required during the in-river migratory period to help achieve sockeye and pink salmon escapement goals.
All Panel Area waters remain closed to commercial salmon fishing.
The Panel did not schedule another in-season meeting, but asked for regular updates on the migration of Fraser sockeye and pink salmon.
http://www.psc.org/download/468/2017/9318/sept-8-2017.pdf