Alaska reports very low salmon harvest

Alaska’s 2024 commercial salmon fishery harvest for all species was valued at approximately US$304 million, a significant decrease from $398 million from the 2023 season.

Market conditions significantly impacted the pricing of salmon statewide and consequently, the value of the harvest, ADF&G said.

Sockeye salmon accounted for approximately 68% of the total value at $206.7 million and 42% of the harvest at 42 million fish. Pink salmon accounted for approximately 9% of the value at $28.2 million and 40% of the harvest with 40 million fish. Chum salmon contributed 15% of the value at $45 million and approximately 17% of the harvest at 17.2 million fish. Coho salmon accounted for approximately 4% of the value at $12.2 million and 1% of the harvest at 1.7 million fish. Chinook salmon harvest was estimated to be just under 229,000 fish with an estimated preliminary ex-vessel value of $11.8 million (4% of total ex-vessel value).

A total 5,276 individual permit holders made commercial salmon landings in 2024, a decrease from 2023 (5,592 permits).

When compared to the long-term time series (1985–2023), the 2024 all-species commercial salmon harvest of approximately 101 million fish and 450 million pounds was the third lowest on record for total fish harvested, and the lowest on record for total pounds harvested. Adjusted for inflation (CPI, 2024 prices), the 2024 ex-vessel value estimate of $304 million was the third lowest ex-vessel value reported since 1975.

The 2024 commercial harvest is 25% lower than the preseason harvest projection of 135.7 million fish.

Sockeye and Chinook salmon harvest slightly exceeded the preseason harvest projection, while pink, chum and coho salmon harvests in 2024 were all below the preseason harvest projection.

ADF&G said the pink salmon harvest performed poorly relative to the preseason harvest projection with about 58% of the projected harvest being realised in 2024.

These are preliminary harvest and value estimates which will change as fish tickets are processed and finalised. The final value of the 2024 salmon fishery will be determined in 2025 after seafood buyers and processors report the total value paid to fishermen in 2024.