From the Field: Fishery May Close on Short Notice

By Jim Lukens - Idaho Fish and Game As you may have noticed when traveling on Highway 93 South there are many anglers trying to catch one of the greatest sport fishes in Idaho - the Chinook salmon. The Salmon River main stem is open from the posted boundary at the cable car crossing behind Buddy's restaurant in the city of Salmon upstream to the posted boundary at Ellis. Harvest is allowed only for adipose-fin-clipped hatchery Chinook. This year the sport fishing quota is about 2,500 fish for Chinook destined for the Pahsimeroi Hatchery. Anglers need to be aware that the season can close on very short notice and need to stay tuned to the status of the fishery. It is impossible for Fish and Game to predict the actual closing date because it is contingent on many things, including angler effort, angler success and river conditions. The fishery is monitored daily to estimate current catch and to track the progress of the fishery. Currently anglers have caught about 25 percent of the sport-fish quota, but in recent days anglers have been catching increasing numbers of fish, therefore getting us closer to the quota after each fishing day. Bottom line - if you want the opportunity to catch a salmon don't plan your fishing trip too far into the future or you may miss an opportunity to catch one of Idaho's most incredible fish. Please consult the 2010 Chinook salmon seasons and rules brochure for details regarding fishing hours, gear restrictions, fishery boundaries, methods of take and limits. Jim Lukens is regional supervisor of the Salmon Region.