(Kodiak) – To attempt to achieve the lower bound sustainable escapement goal (SEG) of 400 coho salmon, the American River drainage is closed to sport fishing for coho salmon. In addition, to prevent additional hooking mortality, the use of bait is prohibited in the drainage. The SEG has not been achieved on numerous occasions and despite a strong run in 2023, recent drone and foot surveys counted only 30 coho salmon. The SEG is assessed during post-season foot surveys, but with the low count of coho salmon during the fishing season, the SEG is not expected to be achieved.

“The American River coho salmon goal has not been achieved several times over the last ten years and, other than 2023, the drainage has typically not seen very strong coho runs” stated Assistant Area Management Biologist Mark Witteveen. “With a recent survey count of only 30 fish, it doesn’t look like the goal will be achieved this season. Coho salmon counts in Kodiak Road Zone rivers do occasionally come in very late in September and in October, so if counts improve, the river could be reopened. Sport fishing for Dolly Varden is still allowed in the drainage, though the use of bait is prohibited.”

Sport fishing opportunities may be restored by a subsequent emergency order if coho salmon counts improve and ADF&G staff will continue to monitor the drainage via drone and foot surveys.

For additional information, please contact Assistant Area Management Biologist Mark Witteveen
at (907) 486-1880.

#24-3777