Alaska Salmon Sizes Increase While Harvest Remains Below 2023 Levels

Alaska's salmon harvest remains below 2023 levels year-to-date in 2024, although it accelerated in the previous week, with the peak week for sockeye expected in early Jul-24. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game reports that Bristol Bay sockeye are smaller and younger this year, with more fish returning after only two years in the ocean. These smaller fish can swim through nets easily, reducing harvests and resulting in smaller filets. Compared to 2023, Chinook salmon have averaged 11.0 pounds (+5%), keta 9.9 pounds (+25%), and coho 4.8 pounds (+12%). Additionally, 13% of the keta quota has been completed for this year.