Fishery Notice

Category(s):
ABORIGINAL - Salmon: Economic Opportunities
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Gill Net
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Seine
COMMERCIAL - Salmon: Troll
Subject:
FN1169-Fraser River Chum Update - October 26, 2016


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 19, the current median estimate for the terminal Fraser River 
chum return is 2.00 million chum, with a 50% migration date of October 20.  
There is an 80% probability that the run is between 1.262 and 3.630 million, 
and a 99% probability that the run will exceed the escapement goal of 800,000.  

The current run size is sufficient to allow for commercial opportunities in the 
Fraser River.  Additional information on available Commercial TAC and 
commercial fisheries planning details will be provided via separate fishery 
notices.

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 commercial 
fisheries, including First Nation economic opportunity fisheries, will be 
planned to minimize impacts on these stocks, as outlined in the 2016 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:

Your local Fishery Manager.





Fisheries & Oceans Operations Center - FN1169
Sent October 26, 2016 at 1422