State acts to restrict coho catch

WASILLA — A season-long dearth of coho salmon in Mat-Su streams has finally forced the Alaska Department of Fish and Game to take action.

Beginning 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, anglers must release all coho caught in all Knik Arm Management Area streams, with the exception of Fish Creek and the Eklutna Tailrace. Affected streams include the Little Susitna River, Wasilla Creek, Cottonwood Creek and Jim Creek.

According to a press release issued by the department, Fish Creek was excluded from the order because of good reports of angler success, while the Eklutna Tailrace is a stocked fishery.

Biologists have stated throughout the season that the coho run to the Northern Cook Inlet appears weak, and the latest move to restrict harvest is a reflection of that. As of Aug. 29, 3,098 coho had been counted passing the ADFG weir on the Little Susitna River. With the run about half over, the department believes escapement likely will not reach its escapement range of between 10,100 and 17,700 silvers.

Although fish counting is only done in the Knik Arm area on the Little Susitna, the department in its press release says the Little Su is typically a good indicator of returns to smaller streams.

The order will remain in effect until the end of the year, unless otherwise modified.