Maritime Injury Law BlogAlaska Salmon Fishery 2024 Reports Sharp Declines in Catch and Value
Alaska’s commercial salmon fishery experienced significant setbacks in 2024, with double-digit declines in both catch numbers and market value. According to preliminary figures released by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G), just over 101 million salmon were harvested across the state. This represents a 56% decrease compared to the more than 232 million salmon caught in 2023, marking one of the most dramatic year-over-year declines in recent history.
The decline in harvest volumes has been accompanied by a sharp drop in the fishery’s overall value. Fishermen collectively earned $304 million in 2024, down nearly 24% from the $398 million recorded in 2023. These figures underscore the economic challenges faced by Alaska’s fishing communities, many of which are heavily reliant on the health of the state’s salmon industry.
“Market conditions significantly impacted the pricing of salmon statewide and, consequently, the value of the harvest,” ADF&G noted in its summary.
Economic Impact by Species
- Sockeye Salmon: Accounted for 68% of the total fishery value at $206.7 million, with 42 million fish harvested (42% of the total catch). Fishermen received an average of $1.05 per pound, up from $0.87 in 2023.
- Pink Salmon: Contributed 9% of the value at $28.2 million, with 40 million fish harvested (40% of the total catch). The average price dropped to $0.23 per pound, compared to $0.38 last year.
- Chum Salmon: Represented 15% of the value at $45 million, with 17.2 million fish harvested (17% of the total catch). Fishermen earned $0.39 per pound, down from $0.67 in 2023.
- Coho Salmon: Brought in 4% of the value at $12.2 million, with 1.7 million fish harvested (1% of the total catch). The average price increased to $1.17 per pound from $1.03 in 2023.
- Chinook Salmon: Estimated at 229,000 fish with a value of $11.8 million (4% of total value). Dockside prices fell to $5.11 per pound from $5.80 last year.
Understanding the Decline
The dramatic downturn in Alaska’s salmon harvest can be attributed to a combination of environmental, biological, and market factors. Warmer ocean temperatures, driven by climate change, have disrupted the delicate balance of marine ecosystems, impacting salmon migration patterns and food availability. Additionally, cyclical fluctuations in salmon populations, known as the “salmon cycle,” may have contributed to lower returns in 2024.
Sockeye salmon, a cornerstone of Alaska’s commercial fishery, saw particularly notable declines. Regions such as Bristol Bay, which typically produce record-breaking sockeye harvests, reported below-average returns. Meanwhile, other salmon species, including pink and chum salmon, also struggled, exacerbating the overall shortfall.
While the 2024 salmon season has been disheartening, it is not the first time Alaska’s fishing industry has faced significant challenges. Industry stakeholders are already looking ahead, emphasizing the need for adaptive management strategies to address the complex factors influencing salmon populations.
State agencies like ADF&G are focused on gathering detailed data to better understand the drivers behind the 2024 declines. Enhanced monitoring of ocean conditions, habitat restoration efforts, and sustainable management practices will be critical in ensuring the long-term viability of Alaska’s salmon fisheries.
In addition, calls for increased investment in climate resilience are growing louder. Programs that mitigate the effects of warming oceans and protect critical salmon habitats, such as spawning streams and estuaries, could play a pivotal role in supporting future salmon runs.
Despite the challenges of 2024, Alaska’s fishing communities remain resilient, bolstered by a deep-rooted connection to the sea and an enduring commitment to sustainable practices. Collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and fishermen will be vital to safeguarding Alaska’s salmon legacy for future generations.