Is Russia part of the problem?

Bycatch is a hot topic right now, especially given the dismal salmon returns to Western Alaska.

Some people believe the problem rests with the U.S. trawl fleet in the Bering Sea.

But the North Pacific Fishery Management Council is looking farther afield. It has sent a letter to the State Department requesting help obtaining information on the catch of Western Alaska Chinook and chum salmon in Russian fisheries.

Governor orders bycatch task force

Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy has issued an administrative order to establish an Alaska Bycatch Review Task Force.

"It's imperative that the state's fisheries are managed in a way that ensures their success for future generations," Dunleavy said in a press release. "By bringing together stakeholders, to include sport and commercial fishermen, federal and state fisheries managers, lawmakers, and the general public, this task force will provide valuable recommendations to help better understand and address the issues of bycatch."

Recent declines in halibut, crab, and certain salmon stocks have "focused attention on the issue of bycatch," the press release said.

The task force will have 13 voting members appointed by the governor, and two nonvoting members of the Legislature.

'Weak' forecast for Southeast Alaska pink salmon

Details here.

Bristol Bay's glowing outlook

The state's Bristol Bay forecast is out, and it shows potential for a stupendous catch of almost 60 million sockeye.

Bycatch in the spotlight

The Alaska House Special Committee on Fisheries will meet at 10 a.m. Monday for "an informational hearing on bycatch in Alaska fisheries."

The committee won't be taking public testimony. Click here for the list of invited witnesses.