The SWFSC Fisheries Ecology Division’s Molecular Ecology
& Genetic Analysis Team sampled the Monterey Bay Chinook salmon
recreational fishery on the 2010 season opening weekend. The samples were
subjected to a genetic stock identification analysis using a quick turnaround
time protocol that provides results in 2-3 days. The data were then provided to
the Salmon Technical Team of the Pacific Fishery Management Council prior to
the April meeting in Portland when the 2010 salmon seasons are decided.
The analysis estimated that 94% of
the catch was Central Valley Fall Run Chinook, which is similar to the
proportion in 2006, when this stock was relatively abundant, and substantially
higher than in 2007, which was the first year of the stock “collapse”. These
data therefore provide evidence that the stock forecast for this year, which
estimates about 245,000 adults in the fishery, is unlikely to be as far off as
it was in 2009.
(April 16, 2010)