Evaluation 2023

The Harvest Evaluation Project collected harvest data and utilized escapement information to determine forecast accuracy and whether take was within pre-season impact rates. This information was used by the Management Project to adjust harvest guidelines and open or curtail fisheries. Tribal fisherman were interviewed about fishing locations, fishing hours, methods, and Chinook salmon caught as well as knowledge and/or presence of other Tribal fisherman. A total estimate of fishers and catch per unit effort (CPUE) were developed to estimate total catch by fishery. Monitors completed weekly reports as a checks and balances to verify data collected in the field. CPUE and harvest were formally reported to NOAA-Fisheries and relevant co-managers at the conclusion of the fishing season or as needed. Once escapement data within basin was available, SBT staff provided final harvest take values to NOAA-Fisheries based on the total escapement for each tributary.

The Tribes will report their harvest estimates to NOAA-Fisheries and relevant co-managers on a weekly basis through the Snake Basin Adult Coordination Meetings. Once fishery guidelines or total impacts are achieved for an individual fishery, such fishery will be curtailed unless information suggests forecasts under-predicted escapement or an adjusted in-season forecast is made by TAC. Conversely, should information suggest pre-season forecasts over-estimate escapement, harvest guidelines will be reduced.