Author: James J. Hasbrouck

Publisher:

Published: 2022

Total Pages: 0

ISBN-13:

The current sustainable escapement goal (700,000–1,200,000) for Kenai River late-run sockeye salmon was established in 2011. For this escapement goal review, the escapement time series and production data were updated through 2018. The fit of 6 spawner–recruit models to data from brood years 1968–2012 and brood years 1979–2012 was examined. Although the classic Ricker model was determined the most appropriate to use given the data, all brood years were estimated to have replaced themselves, which compromised obtaining accurate and precise estimates of most model parameter estimates and biological reference points, including a scientifically defensible estimate of maximum sustained yield. Markov-type yield tables were constructed to evaluate yields at different levels of escapement. We recommend the sustainable escapement goal for Kenai River late-run sockeye salmon be revised to 750,000–1,300,000 fish because the analyses indicated escapements in this range will likely provide better yields.