Few schools were observed on the north end of Sitka Sound, however, sea lions are scattered throughout the northern area. About 2,000 tons of 115-135 gram fish were taken. Some smaller fish were in the area and some sets were released. Fishing boats are allowed to stretch their nets without further permission in Eastern Channel. The meeting would be to discuss plans for harvesting this year's quota, in particular plans for multiple openings consistent with fish size and processing capacity.
Additional capacity is available in Prince Rupert depending on Canada's fisheries.
This meeting could easily be preempted if a fishery is scheduled tomorrow afternoon. The department is reserving the right to make any decisions based on inseason management considerations. There was a large biomass on the surface in Silver Bay from Bear Cove to Entry Point. Additional fish schools were seen at Marshall and Harris Islands, Halibut Point, and in Katlian Bay. Whales are working in the area of Poverty Flats between Middle Island and Siginaka Islands.