[ODFW-News] Commission recommends changes to Columbia salmon season

[ODFW News]

Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife  
Contact: Brad Wurfel  (503) 947-6020 
Internet: www.dfw.state.or.us  Fax: (503) 947-6009
 
For Immediate Release Friday, Jan. 06, 2006
 
Commission recommends changes to Columbia salmon season 

SALEM - The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission today directed state
fishery managers to work toward improving the commercial harvest of
Columbia River spring chinook salmon and to provide a consistent and
stable recreational fishery. 

Final decisions on the 2006 spring chinook harvest seasons will be made
by the states of Oregon and Washington at the Columbia River Compact
meeting Jan. 26, 2006, in Oregon City.

Spring chinook provide tremendous economic benefits to both the
commercial and sport-fishing industries. Prized as a sport angling
opportunity and hailed for their flavor, "springers" are the first
fresh, non-farmed salmon of the season to reach barbecues and specialty
markets.  

The Columbia River spring chinook fishery is managed to allow harvest of
hatchery fish while protecting salmon runs that are protected by the
federal Endangered Species Act. 

The Commissioners voted to encourage Oregon Compact representatives to
work for a 55-45 percent split favoring sport anglers, with flexibility
to adjust the figure five percent in either direction. 

The Oregon Fish and Wildlife Commission is the policymaking body for
fish and wildlife issues in the state. The seven-member panel meets
monthly. 
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