ADF&G Declares Zero Harvest for Coho Salmon

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game has announced that it is prohibiting the retention of coho salmon, 16 inches or greater in length, within the Susitna and Little Susitna River drainages. The order is effective from August 19th through the remainder of 2026.

According to Fish and Game, the Little Susitna River sustainable escapement goal for coho salmon is between 9,000–17,000 fish.  As of August 17th, only 1,385 coho salmon have passed the weir, with a projected escapement of slightly over 2,000 fish for the year.

Coho salmon have shown dismal returns in the Susitna River drainage for the past four years. The Department of Fish and Game says they feel closing the fishery is warranted in an effort to conserve the species. They say they will continue to monitor the coho salmon run in Upper Cook Inlet and if run strength improves to a level that can support harvest, restrictions on the sport fishery may be rescinded.

The use of bait continues to be prohibited in all flowing waters of the Susitna and the Little Susitna River drainage. Only artificial lures are allowed.