These results are a pattern, not simply an unusual occurrence. Even the most severe fisheries management actions such as allowing no fisheries have failed to restore wild salmon runs. That's because habitat degradation and loss is occurring faster than we can reduce or eliminate fisheries. Even if we were to end all fishing everywhere today, some runs would still become extinct simply because their habitat has been destroyed or degraded to the point that it can no longer sustain them. It is important to realize that not all salmon species are on the brink of extinction.
Many stocks are quite healthy and can support harvest.
Net fisheries target healthy wild stocks and hatchery fish. Salmon are sacred to western Washington Indian tribes. They have sustained tribal cultures for thousands of years. Indian tribes gave up most of what is now western Washington essentially for the right to fish and hunt. Tribes depend on salmon spiritually, culturally and economically and no group is more concerned with protecting and recovering salmon.