The outlook for salmon fisheries in 2000 is very similar to salmon fisheries in 1999, with stocks characterized by poor marine survival and affected by successive El Ni o events. At that time, it was acknowledged that the rebuilding strategy would be in place for a minimum of six to eight years, and that careful management would be necessary to avoid over-exploitation of stocks at risk.
Conservation continues to be the first priority in the management of Pacific salmon.
Fishing opportunities occur where abundance permits and where the fishery can be conducted in a manner consistent with achieving conservation objectives. This early forecast of possible fishing opportunities will allow fishermen and those associated with the fishing industry to plan ahead for the 2000 season. Outlook for Salmon Fishing Opportunities in 2000 Where surpluses of salmon are identified in-season in 2000, harvest opportunities will be considered and permitted consistent with conservation objectives and with the principles contained in the Allocation Policy. Harvest opportunities in 2000 will also be based on selective fishing requirements. Salmon harvest opportunities anticipated in 2000 are summarised in the following sections.