ategory(s): ABORIGINAL - Salmon: Economic Opportunities
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Gill Net
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Seine
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Troll
Subject: FN1179-Salmon - Fraser River Chum Update - October 22, 2018
In-season estimates of abundance for Fraser River Chum are based on catch 
information provided by the Albion test fishery. Using Albion test fishery data 
through October 21, the current median estimate for the terminal Fraser River 
Chum return is 769,000 Chum, with a 50% migration date of October 18. There is 
an 80% probability that the run is between 659,000 and 894,000, and a 36% 
probability that the run will exceed the escapement goal of 800,000.  
The current run size is not sufficient to allow for commercial or recreational 
opportunities in the Fraser River. Opportunities to harvest Chum salmon will be constrained by management 
objectives for Interior Fraser steelhead, which is a stock of concern presently 
co-migrating in the Fraser River. Harvest opportunities in all fisheries will 
be planned to minimize impacts on these stocks, as outlined in the 2018 South 
Coast Salmon Integrated Fisheries Management Plan (IFMP). Fishers are required 
to take every measure possible to ensure that their fishing activities avoid 
impacts on steelhead. Any steelhead encountered must be released with the least 
possible harm.   
While no additional in-season updates are planned at this time, we will 
continue to closely monitor Chum catch at the Albion test fishery over the 
coming days. Should new data indicate the need to update the current run size 
and timing estimate, additional updates will be provided.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Contact the nearest Fisheries and Oceans Canada office or visit our website at 
http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca.
Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN1179
Sent October 22, 2018 at 1616