By Terry Dillman
Cautious
optimism again best describes the attitude of commercial salmon fishermen in
the wake of the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC)’s adopted ocean
salmon seasons for 2013. PFMC recommends management measures for fisheries off
the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California.
Cautious
optimism again best describes the attitude of commercial salmon fishermen in
the wake of the Pacific Fishery Management Council (PFMC)’s adopted ocean
salmon seasons for 2013. PFMC recommends management measures for fisheries off
the coasts of Washington, Oregon and California.
Nancy
Fitzpatrick, executive director of the Oregon Salmon Commission, said cold
ocean water has led to a slow start, but prospects for the season are looking
up. “The numbers are very positive,” she said. “We’re hoping.”
Fitzpatrick, executive director of the Oregon Salmon Commission, said cold
ocean water has led to a slow start, but prospects for the season are looking
up. “The numbers are very positive,” she said. “We’re hoping.”
Strong
abundance forecasts for both Sacramento River and Klamath River fall Chinook
promise commercial and recreational fishing opportunities along the entire
coast, especially Oregon and California. PFMC adopted the recommendations in
April, and forwarded them to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) for
approval the first of May. Dan Wofford, the council chairman, noted the
potential for “another strong year for ocean salmon fisheries off California
and Oregon, with reasonable seasons north of Cape Falcon” while still
satisfying conservation goals for more than 50 salmon stocks.
abundance forecasts for both Sacramento River and Klamath River fall Chinook
promise commercial and recreational fishing opportunities along the entire
coast, especially Oregon and California. PFMC adopted the recommendations in
April, and forwarded them to the National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) for
approval the first of May. Dan Wofford, the council chairman, noted the
potential for “another strong year for ocean salmon fisheries off California
and Oregon, with reasonable seasons north of Cape Falcon” while still
satisfying conservation goals for more than 50 salmon stocks.
Salmon
fisheries south of Cape Falcon (in northern Oregon) rely primarily on
Sacramento River fall chinook.
fisheries south of Cape Falcon (in northern Oregon) rely primarily on
Sacramento River fall chinook.
In
2008 and 2009, poor Sacramento returns led to the largest ocean salmon fishery
closure on record. The abundance forecast of Sacramento River fall chinook in
2013 is 834,200, similar to last season and far above the number needed for
optimum spawning this fall (122,000 to 180,000 fish). The Klamath River fall
chinook ocean abundance forecast for 2013 is 727,600 – third highest on record
since 1985.
2008 and 2009, poor Sacramento returns led to the largest ocean salmon fishery
closure on record. The abundance forecast of Sacramento River fall chinook in
2013 is 834,200, similar to last season and far above the number needed for
optimum spawning this fall (122,000 to 180,000 fish). The Klamath River fall
chinook ocean abundance forecast for 2013 is 727,600 – third highest on record
since 1985.
Eric
Schindler, ocean salmon sampling project leader with the Oregon Department of
Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)’s Marine Resources Program, said predictions look rosy
south of Cape Falcon, Oregon, but especially from Humbug Mountain on the
California coast to the Oregon-California border. In fact, fishermen in the
California Klamath Management Zone already caught the May quota of 3,000
chinook.
Schindler, ocean salmon sampling project leader with the Oregon Department of
Fish and Wildlife (ODFW)’s Marine Resources Program, said predictions look rosy
south of Cape Falcon, Oregon, but especially from Humbug Mountain on the
California coast to the Oregon-California border. In fact, fishermen in the
California Klamath Management Zone already caught the May quota of 3,000
chinook.
“The
good news is they’re catching fish, and fishing could be really good, but it
depends on the zone,” said Schindler. “The fish were there last year – they
just weren’t along the Oregon coast. This year, it’s really hit-or-miss for
numbers of fish north of Cascade Head. We hope to see more of the Sacramento
fish between Humbug Mountain and Cape Falcon.”
good news is they’re catching fish, and fishing could be really good, but it
depends on the zone,” said Schindler. “The fish were there last year – they
just weren’t along the Oregon coast. This year, it’s really hit-or-miss for
numbers of fish north of Cascade Head. We hope to see more of the Sacramento
fish between Humbug Mountain and Cape Falcon.”
This
is also a “pink year,” he added, meaning there could be some pink salmon
landings. Just how much is anybody’s guess.
is also a “pink year,” he added, meaning there could be some pink salmon
landings. Just how much is anybody’s guess.
Despite
the generally rosy predictions, a number of commercial fishermen prefer to
remain cautiously optimistic. As Schindler noted, “the fish have to cooperate,
the weather has to cooperate, and the fishermen have to get out.”
the generally rosy predictions, a number of commercial fishermen prefer to
remain cautiously optimistic. As Schindler noted, “the fish have to cooperate,
the weather has to cooperate, and the fishermen have to get out.”
Commercial
salmon fishermen, however, have watched their livelihoods dwindle to almost
nothing during the past several seasons – even the promising ones in 2011 and
2012 that didn’t really reach their anticipated potentials.
salmon fishermen, however, have watched their livelihoods dwindle to almost
nothing during the past several seasons – even the promising ones in 2011 and
2012 that didn’t really reach their anticipated potentials.
After
a poor 2005 season, a federally-declared disaster in 2006, a well-below-average
catch in 2007, another federally-declared disaster in 2008, a basically
non-existent 2009 season, and a somewhat improved, yet quite limited season in
2010, most fishermen were optimistic about 2011 prospects. Fishery managers
predicted much stronger returns of fall Chinook and coho, opening the hatch to
more sizeable commercial ocean salmon season that sadly never materialized.
Managers certainly expected more than the 513,000 pounds of Chinook landed in
2010.
a poor 2005 season, a federally-declared disaster in 2006, a well-below-average
catch in 2007, another federally-declared disaster in 2008, a basically
non-existent 2009 season, and a somewhat improved, yet quite limited season in
2010, most fishermen were optimistic about 2011 prospects. Fishery managers
predicted much stronger returns of fall Chinook and coho, opening the hatch to
more sizeable commercial ocean salmon season that sadly never materialized.
Managers certainly expected more than the 513,000 pounds of Chinook landed in
2010.
It
wasn’t even close.
wasn’t even close.
Despite
the healthy forecasts, fish were scarce, with some calling it an absolute bust.
A few boasts averaged as low as one salmon per day, and many trollers simply
quit fishing because operating costs – for licenses, permits, insurance,
maintenance, fuel and more – far outweighed any potential income.
the healthy forecasts, fish were scarce, with some calling it an absolute bust.
A few boasts averaged as low as one salmon per day, and many trollers simply
quit fishing because operating costs – for licenses, permits, insurance,
maintenance, fuel and more – far outweighed any potential income.
Many
fishermen ended up in debt or broke after gearing up for a season that failed
to live up to expectations, said Fitzpatrick.
fishermen ended up in debt or broke after gearing up for a season that failed
to live up to expectations, said Fitzpatrick.
Since
2004, when Oregon’s salmon trollers landed 2.9 million pounds of fish, and
2005, when they hauled in 2.6 million pounds, they have endured a
federally-declared disaster in 2006, a well-below-average catch in 2007, another
federally-declared disaster in 2008, a basically non-existent 2009 season, a
somewhat improved, yet quite limited season in 2010, a disappointing 2011, when
fish were scarce, despite healthy forecasts, followed by last season’s
improved, but less than stellar results.
2004, when Oregon’s salmon trollers landed 2.9 million pounds of fish, and
2005, when they hauled in 2.6 million pounds, they have endured a
federally-declared disaster in 2006, a well-below-average catch in 2007, another
federally-declared disaster in 2008, a basically non-existent 2009 season, a
somewhat improved, yet quite limited season in 2010, a disappointing 2011, when
fish were scarce, despite healthy forecasts, followed by last season’s
improved, but less than stellar results.
The
fleet again faces much-improved prospects for the 2013 season, but those who
don’t want to follow in the wake of others who were driven out of the business
during these lean, mean years are again taking a wait-and-see attitude.
fleet again faces much-improved prospects for the 2013 season, but those who
don’t want to follow in the wake of others who were driven out of the business
during these lean, mean years are again taking a wait-and-see attitude.
The
cumulative economic effects during that stretch of poor fishing opportunities
were substantial, not just for the commercial fishery, but recreational, marine
and freshwater fisheries and the communities that depend on them. It’s an image
fishermen want to keep from becoming iconic. Commercial salmon fishermen have
lost much of the capacity to fish, and wishing and hoping have become standard
gear.
cumulative economic effects during that stretch of poor fishing opportunities
were substantial, not just for the commercial fishery, but recreational, marine
and freshwater fisheries and the communities that depend on them. It’s an image
fishermen want to keep from becoming iconic. Commercial salmon fishermen have
lost much of the capacity to fish, and wishing and hoping have become standard
gear.
In
2008 and 2009, federal disaster funding reimbursed salmon fishermen at 100
percent of their best season of the previous five years. Some fishermen used
the disaster funds to train for other jobs. Some retired. More than a few
stayed the course, because fishing is a lifestyle, a culture of folks who
thrive at sea, despite its vagaries.
2008 and 2009, federal disaster funding reimbursed salmon fishermen at 100
percent of their best season of the previous five years. Some fishermen used
the disaster funds to train for other jobs. Some retired. More than a few
stayed the course, because fishing is a lifestyle, a culture of folks who
thrive at sea, despite its vagaries.
Fitzpatrick
said it’s where they want to be and what they want to do. Most vitally, it’s
who they are.
said it’s where they want to be and what they want to do. Most vitally, it’s
who they are.
Cause
and Effect
and Effect
Blame
for declining runs of Pacific Northwest salmon has focused on habitat loss from
logging and development, predatory sea lions, power-generating dams, terns and
other coastal birds that prey on juvenile fish, changes in hatchery operations,
and over-fishing by commercial and sports fishermen. Still, the most common
factor in determining good seasons or bad is the ocean itself, and scientists
are continually monitoring ocean conditions – temperature, salinity, dissolved
oxygen content, and other factors – to determine their effect on salmon
distribution.
for declining runs of Pacific Northwest salmon has focused on habitat loss from
logging and development, predatory sea lions, power-generating dams, terns and
other coastal birds that prey on juvenile fish, changes in hatchery operations,
and over-fishing by commercial and sports fishermen. Still, the most common
factor in determining good seasons or bad is the ocean itself, and scientists
are continually monitoring ocean conditions – temperature, salinity, dissolved
oxygen content, and other factors – to determine their effect on salmon
distribution.
Researchers
like Bill Peterson, a biologist with NOAA’s Northwest Fisheries Science Center
(NWFSC) at Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC), and
others are working diligently to discover the reasons behind salmon run
declines and collapses, and to find ways to more accurately predict those
fluctuations and deal with them.
like Bill Peterson, a biologist with NOAA’s Northwest Fisheries Science Center
(NWFSC) at Oregon State University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC), and
others are working diligently to discover the reasons behind salmon run
declines and collapses, and to find ways to more accurately predict those
fluctuations and deal with them.
The
survival rate of juvenile salmon in the ocean is a key indicator of future
salmon runs, and ocean conditions at the time those juveniles migrate from
estuaries and rivers into the ocean determine their survival rate.
survival rate of juvenile salmon in the ocean is a key indicator of future
salmon runs, and ocean conditions at the time those juveniles migrate from
estuaries and rivers into the ocean determine their survival rate.
When
those young salmon enter the ocean, they need enough food to not only survive,
but to grow quickly enough to escape predators. The smaller the juveniles are,
the more potential predators they face offshore. And if ocean conditions aren’t
favorable, the predators won’t have other fish like herring, anchovies and
sardines as alternative meals, leaving the salmon even more vulnerable.
Anchovies, sardines, herring, and other small fish also make up the main part
of the diet for the salmon themselves.
those young salmon enter the ocean, they need enough food to not only survive,
but to grow quickly enough to escape predators. The smaller the juveniles are,
the more potential predators they face offshore. And if ocean conditions aren’t
favorable, the predators won’t have other fish like herring, anchovies and
sardines as alternative meals, leaving the salmon even more vulnerable.
Anchovies, sardines, herring, and other small fish also make up the main part
of the diet for the salmon themselves.
Fisheries
biologists say coho return as adults after 18 months. Spring chinook return
after two years, and fall chinook take three years or longer.
biologists say coho return as adults after 18 months. Spring chinook return
after two years, and fall chinook take three years or longer.
Juvenile
salmon spend months in fresh water estuaries and rivers, but can leave anytime.
Scientists aren’t sure exactly what triggers the migration to the ocean, but
studies indicate the importance of timing. Favorable or unfavorable ocean
conditions at the time of migrations determine survival rates for juvenile
salmon, researchers note.
salmon spend months in fresh water estuaries and rivers, but can leave anytime.
Scientists aren’t sure exactly what triggers the migration to the ocean, but
studies indicate the importance of timing. Favorable or unfavorable ocean
conditions at the time of migrations determine survival rates for juvenile
salmon, researchers note.
The
ocean’s Jekyll-and-Hyde personality makes it difficult for biologists to make
accurate predictions.
ocean’s Jekyll-and-Hyde personality makes it difficult for biologists to make
accurate predictions.
Genetic Markers
A
collaborative project between scientists and commercial fishermen from Oregon,
Washington, and California on a critical study to learn more about salmon
distribution, migration and behavior in the ocean. Based at Oregon State
University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC), it uses genetic markers of
individual ocean-caught salmon to pinpoint their river of origin. Started in
2006, the project originally focused on Oregon’s ocean salmon to determine
where fish from specific rivers travel in the ocean, then switched to tuna as
closures in 2008 and 2009 put a drag on the effort. It returned to salmon in
2010 with a full sampling season and a program expansion.
collaborative project between scientists and commercial fishermen from Oregon,
Washington, and California on a critical study to learn more about salmon
distribution, migration and behavior in the ocean. Based at Oregon State
University’s Hatfield Marine Science Center (HMSC), it uses genetic markers of
individual ocean-caught salmon to pinpoint their river of origin. Started in
2006, the project originally focused on Oregon’s ocean salmon to determine
where fish from specific rivers travel in the ocean, then switched to tuna as
closures in 2008 and 2009 put a drag on the effort. It returned to salmon in
2010 with a full sampling season and a program expansion.
The
collaborative effort unites state-of-the-art science with traditional salmon
fishing know-how.
collaborative effort unites state-of-the-art science with traditional salmon
fishing know-how.
The
fishermen function as ocean researchers, collecting and recording at-sea data
during salmon fishing operations, and clipping fin samples that scientists use
for genetic testing. As they catch salmon, the fishermen also log the time and
location using global positioning system (GPS) technology and enter the data
into the project’s computer system. Data so far indicate that salmon from
different river systems behave differently, which could have important
implications for future management and stock protection decisions.
fishermen function as ocean researchers, collecting and recording at-sea data
during salmon fishing operations, and clipping fin samples that scientists use
for genetic testing. As they catch salmon, the fishermen also log the time and
location using global positioning system (GPS) technology and enter the data
into the project’s computer system. Data so far indicate that salmon from
different river systems behave differently, which could have important
implications for future management and stock protection decisions.
Project
leaders say the combination of scientific research and public outreach is
designed to simultaneously get the word out about Oregon’s commercial
fisheries, and strengthen wild fish runs, including salmon.
leaders say the combination of scientific research and public outreach is
designed to simultaneously get the word out about Oregon’s commercial
fisheries, and strengthen wild fish runs, including salmon.
Using
genetic analysis, scientists say they can tell in near real-time the river
basin from which the salmon originated, allowing managers to know whether or
not the stock is considered weak under annually derived regulations.
genetic analysis, scientists say they can tell in near real-time the river
basin from which the salmon originated, allowing managers to know whether or
not the stock is considered weak under annually derived regulations.
Ultimately,
fisheries managers say they want to use this information in combination with
other biological and oceanographic information the fishermen collect, to move
the fishermen to areas of healthy stock during the season. Improved access to
healthy stocks would allow commercial salmon fishermen to stay on the water and
avoid the full-scale fishing closures that hurt everyone – harvesters, seafood
processors, and the rural coastal communities that depend on fishing for at
least part of their livelihoods.
fisheries managers say they want to use this information in combination with
other biological and oceanographic information the fishermen collect, to move
the fishermen to areas of healthy stock during the season. Improved access to
healthy stocks would allow commercial salmon fishermen to stay on the water and
avoid the full-scale fishing closures that hurt everyone – harvesters, seafood
processors, and the rural coastal communities that depend on fishing for at
least part of their livelihoods.
This Season
“We’re
hoping for a season that provides plenty of opportunity for folks to get out on
the water and hook a salmon,” said Steve Williams, ODFW deputy administrator
for Fish Division. “A solid salmon season could be a real economic shot in the
arm for coastal communities.”
hoping for a season that provides plenty of opportunity for folks to get out on
the water and hook a salmon,” said Steve Williams, ODFW deputy administrator
for Fish Division. “A solid salmon season could be a real economic shot in the
arm for coastal communities.”
Commercial
fishermen already have been fishing along the Oregon Coast south of Cape
Falcon, and have been reporting good success from Newport to Bandon, according
to Chris Kern, ODFW salmon manager.
fishermen already have been fishing along the Oregon Coast south of Cape
Falcon, and have been reporting good success from Newport to Bandon, according
to Chris Kern, ODFW salmon manager.
Summary
of the Ocean Seasons Adopted by PFMC:
of the Ocean Seasons Adopted by PFMC:
North
of Cape Falcon to Leadbetter Pt., Washington: Commercial troll salmon seasons
and quotas very similar to last year. Seasons will start on May 1 for chinook
and July 1 for hatchery coho and should continue through mid-September.
of Cape Falcon to Leadbetter Pt., Washington: Commercial troll salmon seasons
and quotas very similar to last year. Seasons will start on May 1 for chinook
and July 1 for hatchery coho and should continue through mid-September.
South
of Cape Falcon: Commercial troll chinook salmon seasons from Cape Falcon to
Humbug Mt. that provides for full fishing from April 1 through Aug.29, and fall
fishing with weekly trip limits from Sept. 4 through Oct. 31. Commercial troll
chinook salmon seasons from Humbug Mt. to OR/CA border from April 1 through May
31 without trip limits or quotas, followed by June, July, August, and September
seasons managed by quota with daily trip limits.
of Cape Falcon: Commercial troll chinook salmon seasons from Cape Falcon to
Humbug Mt. that provides for full fishing from April 1 through Aug.29, and fall
fishing with weekly trip limits from Sept. 4 through Oct. 31. Commercial troll
chinook salmon seasons from Humbug Mt. to OR/CA border from April 1 through May
31 without trip limits or quotas, followed by June, July, August, and September
seasons managed by quota with daily trip limits.
Commercial
salmon fishermen off the Oregon coast are landing fish, but despite the
optimism and a 2012 harvest notably higher than the previous two years,
industry leaders are seriously pondering the fishery’s future. Despite the
significant improvement, it’s nowhere near the fishery’s halcyon days of the
1970s and most of the 1980s, when 2,000 to 4,000 vessels plied the waters
trolling for the Pacific Northwest’s signature fish species.
salmon fishermen off the Oregon coast are landing fish, but despite the
optimism and a 2012 harvest notably higher than the previous two years,
industry leaders are seriously pondering the fishery’s future. Despite the
significant improvement, it’s nowhere near the fishery’s halcyon days of the
1970s and most of the 1980s, when 2,000 to 4,000 vessels plied the waters
trolling for the Pacific Northwest’s signature fish species.
History
According
to ODFW, the commercial salmon troll fishery began developing off the Oregon
coast by 1912, and within seven years, 1,000 to 2,000 boats were trolling off
the mouth of the Columbia River. Oregon began recording troll landings
separately from gillnet fisheries in 1925.
to ODFW, the commercial salmon troll fishery began developing off the Oregon
coast by 1912, and within seven years, 1,000 to 2,000 boats were trolling off
the mouth of the Columbia River. Oregon began recording troll landings
separately from gillnet fisheries in 1925.
Landings
of ocean troll caught coho salmon remained relatively stable from 1925 to 1941,
with landings between 2 million and 4 million pounds most years. From 1942 to
1950, catches remained near 1 million pounds annually, but by 1957 landings
climbed to 3.4 million pounds. The El Niño of 1958-59 resulted in landings
dropping back below 1 million pounds or 200,000 fish.
of ocean troll caught coho salmon remained relatively stable from 1925 to 1941,
with landings between 2 million and 4 million pounds most years. From 1942 to
1950, catches remained near 1 million pounds annually, but by 1957 landings
climbed to 3.4 million pounds. The El Niño of 1958-59 resulted in landings
dropping back below 1 million pounds or 200,000 fish.
During
the 1960s and early 1970s, improved hatchery production and rearing techniques,
a growing troll fleet, and good ocean survival rates of smolts to adults
resulted in record landings that peaked in 1976 with 1.8 million coho landed.
From the mid-1970s through the 1990s, Oregon’s ocean coho fishery faced
on-going poor ocean environmental conditions and poor overall survival,
increased management restrictions and reduced ocean harvest opportunities.
the 1960s and early 1970s, improved hatchery production and rearing techniques,
a growing troll fleet, and good ocean survival rates of smolts to adults
resulted in record landings that peaked in 1976 with 1.8 million coho landed.
From the mid-1970s through the 1990s, Oregon’s ocean coho fishery faced
on-going poor ocean environmental conditions and poor overall survival,
increased management restrictions and reduced ocean harvest opportunities.
Although
chinook harvest has also fluctuated dramatically, the long-term trend was
toward higher landings, with record harvests in 1987 and 1988. Harvests dropped
during the early 1990s due to decreases in many stocks and concern for critical
natural stocks under both state and federal management and the federal
Endangered Species Act (ESA), along with escalating allocation conflicts
between river and ocean user groups.
chinook harvest has also fluctuated dramatically, the long-term trend was
toward higher landings, with record harvests in 1987 and 1988. Harvests dropped
during the early 1990s due to decreases in many stocks and concern for critical
natural stocks under both state and federal management and the federal
Endangered Species Act (ESA), along with escalating allocation conflicts
between river and ocean user groups.
Coho
salmon landings have historically eclipsed chinook, but ODFW records show that
for the last decade, chinook landings have either equaled coho or many times
made up most of the catch. Chinook are likely to continue to predominate in the
landings unless coho populations recover substantially to allow directed coho
fisheries to resume coastwide, ODFW officials noted.
salmon landings have historically eclipsed chinook, but ODFW records show that
for the last decade, chinook landings have either equaled coho or many times
made up most of the catch. Chinook are likely to continue to predominate in the
landings unless coho populations recover substantially to allow directed coho
fisheries to resume coastwide, ODFW officials noted.
Entry
into the troll fishery went unrestricted until 1980 when a permit moratorium
was adopted.
into the troll fishery went unrestricted until 1980 when a permit moratorium
was adopted.
Although
4,311 vessels already had Oregon troll permits, managers established a goal of
2,400 vessels licensed to troll for salmon in Oregon. In 1993, it dropped to
1,800 vessels, and to 1,200 in 1995 based on recommendations by an industry
review panel. As of 1999, permit numbers had dropped below the 1,200 cap, and a
lottery was introduced in 2001 to issue available permits.
4,311 vessels already had Oregon troll permits, managers established a goal of
2,400 vessels licensed to troll for salmon in Oregon. In 1993, it dropped to
1,800 vessels, and to 1,200 in 1995 based on recommendations by an industry
review panel. As of 1999, permit numbers had dropped below the 1,200 cap, and a
lottery was introduced in 2001 to issue available permits.
Fitzpatrick
referred to the PFMC’s annual review of ocean salmon fisheries, which showed
that the number of vessel owners with salmon permits has dwindled from a high
of 4,314 in 1980 to slightly more than 1,000 in 2011, due in large part to
fishery management efforts, most notably permit restrictions and salmon quotas.
In 1980, 3,875 vessels landed salmon – the highest on record. Last season, just
302 vessels harvested fish.
referred to the PFMC’s annual review of ocean salmon fisheries, which showed
that the number of vessel owners with salmon permits has dwindled from a high
of 4,314 in 1980 to slightly more than 1,000 in 2011, due in large part to
fishery management efforts, most notably permit restrictions and salmon quotas.
In 1980, 3,875 vessels landed salmon – the highest on record. Last season, just
302 vessels harvested fish.
The
worst year was 2008, when only 138 vessels landed salmon in the middle of a
federally-declared disaster season.
worst year was 2008, when only 138 vessels landed salmon in the middle of a
federally-declared disaster season.
In
1976, salmon fishermen hauled in almost 11 million pounds of salmon worth $14.7
million. By comparison, they landed 499,000 pounds in 2006 valued at $2.7
million, 565,000 pounds in 2007 valued at $2.8 million, only 70,000 pounds in
2008 worth $494,000 and 146,000 pounds in 2009 valued at just $345,000. The
numbers rose in 2010 (513,000 pounds worth $2.8 million) and 2011 (403,000
pounds valued at $2.4 million).
1976, salmon fishermen hauled in almost 11 million pounds of salmon worth $14.7
million. By comparison, they landed 499,000 pounds in 2006 valued at $2.7
million, 565,000 pounds in 2007 valued at $2.8 million, only 70,000 pounds in
2008 worth $494,000 and 146,000 pounds in 2009 valued at just $345,000. The
numbers rose in 2010 (513,000 pounds worth $2.8 million) and 2011 (403,000
pounds valued at $2.4 million).
Last
season was a definite improvement, but nowhere near what’s needed to revive the
fishery and keep it viable for those who once depended only on it for a living.
Fishery managers say salmon fishing has declined precipitously and stocks have
dwindled due to a complex set of circumstances.
season was a definite improvement, but nowhere near what’s needed to revive the
fishery and keep it viable for those who once depended only on it for a living.
Fishery managers say salmon fishing has declined precipitously and stocks have
dwindled due to a complex set of circumstances.
Based
on Pacific Coast Fisheries Information Network (PacFIN) data, only 194 vessels
participated in the West coast commercial salmon fishery in 2008, down from
1,007 the previous year. The overall harvest (14,500 fish) plummeted to the
lowest on record. Total ex-vessel value dropped to $1.2 million, again the
lowest ever – 90 percent below the $11.9 million in 2007. The average per
vessel inflation-adjusted ex-vessel value of salmon landings dropped to $5,300,
half of the 2007 level. Ex-vessel value dropped 46 percent in Oregon, 33
percent in Washington and nearly 100 percent in California.
on Pacific Coast Fisheries Information Network (PacFIN) data, only 194 vessels
participated in the West coast commercial salmon fishery in 2008, down from
1,007 the previous year. The overall harvest (14,500 fish) plummeted to the
lowest on record. Total ex-vessel value dropped to $1.2 million, again the
lowest ever – 90 percent below the $11.9 million in 2007. The average per
vessel inflation-adjusted ex-vessel value of salmon landings dropped to $5,300,
half of the 2007 level. Ex-vessel value dropped 46 percent in Oregon, 33
percent in Washington and nearly 100 percent in California.
Income
impacts for coastal communities are estimated per commercial pound and per
recreational fishing day. They represent estimates – based on reported landings
by area and other factors – of personal income associated with harvesting,
processing, and “first level distribution activities” in the commercial and
recreational salmon fisheries at the local community (county) and state levels.
impacts for coastal communities are estimated per commercial pound and per
recreational fishing day. They represent estimates – based on reported landings
by area and other factors – of personal income associated with harvesting,
processing, and “first level distribution activities” in the commercial and
recreational salmon fisheries at the local community (county) and state levels.
Combined
impact for all three states hit a record low of $6.9 million in 2008, well
below the $39.9 million in 2007. The commercial fishery netted $1.4 million,
down from $19.4 million the previous year, while the recreational fishery drew
$5.5 million, down from $20.1 million in 2007.
impact for all three states hit a record low of $6.9 million in 2008, well
below the $39.9 million in 2007. The commercial fishery netted $1.4 million,
down from $19.4 million the previous year, while the recreational fishery drew
$5.5 million, down from $20.1 million in 2007.
Prices
for ocean harvested chinook were the highest on record, averaging $6.96 per
pound, besting the previous highs of $5.43 in 2006 and $5.38 in 2007.
for ocean harvested chinook were the highest on record, averaging $6.96 per
pound, besting the previous highs of $5.43 in 2006 and $5.38 in 2007.
“One
of the main reasons 2008 prices were so high was due to the extremely
restricted 2008 fishing season,” the PFMC review noted.
of the main reasons 2008 prices were so high was due to the extremely
restricted 2008 fishing season,” the PFMC review noted.
Fishermen
and owners of related businesses reeling from the closure already knew that,
and their misery continued through 2009. The outlook and harvest improved
considerably in 2010 and 2011, but last season fell well short of expectations.
and owners of related businesses reeling from the closure already knew that,
and their misery continued through 2009. The outlook and harvest improved
considerably in 2010 and 2011, but last season fell well short of expectations.
Unruly
weather can foul things up for the fishermen, especially since – as “we’re the
smaller boat fleet.” Most salmon trollers range from 20 feet to 50 feet, with
only a few at 50-plus feet. “Lots of big boats have salmon permits, but they
aren’t focused on salmon,” she added.
weather can foul things up for the fishermen, especially since – as “we’re the
smaller boat fleet.” Most salmon trollers range from 20 feet to 50 feet, with
only a few at 50-plus feet. “Lots of big boats have salmon permits, but they
aren’t focused on salmon,” she added.
When
the wind and waves rise, the smaller boats generally don’t go out. Safety is a
key concern, and fishermen say the rewards these days don’t offset the risk.
the wind and waves rise, the smaller boats generally don’t go out. Safety is a
key concern, and fishermen say the rewards these days don’t offset the risk.
Commercial
salmon fishermen have become an endangered species themselves. Many of them are
shunning salmon fishing and either turning to other fisheries to maintain their
livelihoods or getting out of fishing altogether – an unpalatable decision for
most of them. Salmon fishing just doesn’t pay as well as other fisheries anymore.
salmon fishermen have become an endangered species themselves. Many of them are
shunning salmon fishing and either turning to other fisheries to maintain their
livelihoods or getting out of fishing altogether – an unpalatable decision for
most of them. Salmon fishing just doesn’t pay as well as other fisheries anymore.
“If it
had not been for the disaster relief funds, we would have lost a lot more
boats,” said Fitzpatrick, who has been with the Oregon Salmon Commission since
its inception in 1989.
had not been for the disaster relief funds, we would have lost a lot more
boats,” said Fitzpatrick, who has been with the Oregon Salmon Commission since
its inception in 1989.
Others
hooked into an ongoing research project, trolling for salmon and science
simultaneously, gleaning data that fishery managers hope could prevent complete
closures of salmon fishing in the future. Because salmon management is so
complicated and complex, the jury is still out on whether or not these and
other efforts are enough to salvage the fishery.
hooked into an ongoing research project, trolling for salmon and science
simultaneously, gleaning data that fishery managers hope could prevent complete
closures of salmon fishing in the future. Because salmon management is so
complicated and complex, the jury is still out on whether or not these and
other efforts are enough to salvage the fishery.
One
thing is certain: change is inevitable and the salmon fishery will never return
to its former epic levels.
thing is certain: change is inevitable and the salmon fishery will never return
to its former epic levels.
What Lies Ahead
“It’s
an iconic fishery,” said Fitzpatrick, noting the history and “romance” as well
as the generational aspect of salmon fishing. “These men and women decided that
being on the ocean, being their own captain, being their own boss is what they
want to do.”
an iconic fishery,” said Fitzpatrick, noting the history and “romance” as well
as the generational aspect of salmon fishing. “These men and women decided that
being on the ocean, being their own captain, being their own boss is what they
want to do.”
Doing
so is becoming more and more difficult.
so is becoming more and more difficult.
Costs
(moorage fees, insurance, equipment, fuel and more – “all the expenses of
preparation paid out before you even put a boat in the water,” said
Fitzpatrick) keep rising, market prices and weather fluctuate, regulations and
restrictions change – usually becoming more onerous, and the ongoing debate between
wild versus hatchery fish continues. To top it off, the fishery management
equation – the way quotas and seasons are determined – has turned salmon into
what Fitzpatrick calls “a credit card fishery.”
(moorage fees, insurance, equipment, fuel and more – “all the expenses of
preparation paid out before you even put a boat in the water,” said
Fitzpatrick) keep rising, market prices and weather fluctuate, regulations and
restrictions change – usually becoming more onerous, and the ongoing debate between
wild versus hatchery fish continues. To top it off, the fishery management
equation – the way quotas and seasons are determined – has turned salmon into
what Fitzpatrick calls “a credit card fishery.”
“Salmon
is the most complicated and regulated fish in the Pacific Northwest,” she
noted. “We basically catch fish on credit this year and pay for it next year
(in reduced quotas or other ways).”
is the most complicated and regulated fish in the Pacific Northwest,” she
noted. “We basically catch fish on credit this year and pay for it next year
(in reduced quotas or other ways).”
The
state legislature passed a bill last year to remove the cap on salmon permits
and eliminate the lottery system in place since 1991.
state legislature passed a bill last year to remove the cap on salmon permits
and eliminate the lottery system in place since 1991.
“Since
1992, not even half of the boats were fishing,” said Fitzpatrick. “If the
numbers fell below 1,000, we had to open up a lottery to anybody to get the
number back up.” The lottery hurt permit holders, since others could get permits
by lottery for much less than the $5,000 to $10,000 it might otherwise cost.
1992, not even half of the boats were fishing,” said Fitzpatrick. “If the
numbers fell below 1,000, we had to open up a lottery to anybody to get the
number back up.” The lottery hurt permit holders, since others could get permits
by lottery for much less than the $5,000 to $10,000 it might otherwise cost.
“If we
ever wanted a buyout – and I’m not saying we would – then we had to eliminate
the lottery,” said Fitzpatrick. “Permit holders can renew every year, and if
they don’t, the permit disappears. Under the lottery system, it didn’t
disappear.”
ever wanted a buyout – and I’m not saying we would – then we had to eliminate
the lottery,” said Fitzpatrick. “Permit holders can renew every year, and if
they don’t, the permit disappears. Under the lottery system, it didn’t
disappear.”
The
salmon commission’s focus is to get fresh wild caught Oregon salmon into the
market. That means promoting high quality Oregon salmon to local restaurants,
smaller retail stores and seafood counters – a strategy that is seemingly
paying off. “It disappears fast,” Fitzpatrick said. “Buyers up and down the
coast look for it.”
salmon commission’s focus is to get fresh wild caught Oregon salmon into the
market. That means promoting high quality Oregon salmon to local restaurants,
smaller retail stores and seafood counters – a strategy that is seemingly
paying off. “It disappears fast,” Fitzpatrick said. “Buyers up and down the
coast look for it.”
What
the future holds remains uncertain. But for the third consecutive year,
commercial fishermen could harvest more salmon.
the future holds remains uncertain. But for the third consecutive year,
commercial fishermen could harvest more salmon.