Fishery Notice

In-season estimates of return-to-the-mouth ("terminal") abundance for Fraser River Chum Salmon are based on historical information on the probable range of run size, timing, expansion line, and duration, combined with the current year's catch information provided by the Albion test fishery. The Chum-directed test fishing gill net (6.75" mesh) is fished every other day from September 1 to October 20, then daily through November 10, then every other day until November 23. More details of the Albion test fishery can be found on the DFO website: http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/fraser/index-eng.html 

Catch in the Chum net through October 13 totals 1,728 Chum Salmon. Combining this data with the historical information in a Bayesian non-linear regression model results in an expected terminal Fraser River Chum Salmon return of 1,082,000 Chum (median estimate), with a 50% migration date of October 22. The return is expected to be between 688,000 and 1,738,000 (80% probability), and it is very likely that the return will meet the escapement goal of 800,000.

The current run size estimate is sufficient to allow for recreational and commercial opportunities (including First Nations Economic Opportunities) in the Fraser River. The timing and final in-season run size estimate will be confirmed within the next week. Additional information on available Commercial TAC and commercial fisheries planning details will be provided via separate fishery notices.

A reminder that opportunities to harvest Chum Salmon for First Nations Food, Social, and Ceremonial purposes will be constrained by management objectives for Interior Fraser Steelhead, a stock of concern presently co-migrating in the Fraser River. Moving window closures are in place for all salmon fisheries located along the migratory route of Thompson and Chilcotin River Steelhead, including Southern BC marine waters and the Fraser River and tributaries downstream of Thompson and Chilcotin River Steelhead spawning areas, as outlined in the 2020/2021 South Coast Salmon Integrated Fisheries Management Plan (IFMP). Harvest opportunities in all fisheries will be planned in line with these management measures. 

The final planned in-season Fraser River Chum update will be provided by October 22, 2020.


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 - FN1108
Sent October 15, 2020 at 1109

Return to Main Menu

Visit Fisheries and Oceans Canada on the Web at http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca
Printed from the Pacific Region web site on March 10, 2026 at 0243