Another fishy bill

State Sen. Scott Kawasaki, D-Fairbanks, has filed Senate Bill 44 requiring the Board of Fisheries to "prioritize personal use fisheries when implementing fishing restrictions to achieve a management goal."

Sitka herring outlook

The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is forecasting a whole hell of a lot of herring this year in Sitka Sound, but expects only a limited commercial harvest. More details here.

The Sitka Sound sac roe fishery was dormant the past two years as the fish were too small to suit buyers.

Juneau watch

The Alaska Legislature opens a new session on Jan. 19, and legislators have prefiled some bills of interest to the commercial fishing community.

Sen. Peter Micciche, R-Soldotna, is again offering a bill establishing a buyback program for commercial salmon setnet permits on the east side of Cook Inlet. The legislation is filed as Senate Bill 29.

Rep. Sarah Vance, R-Homer, is sponsoring House Bill 52 providing that operation of the Tutka Bay Lagoon Hatchery is "a compatible use within the boundaries of the Kachemak Bay State Park."

Rep. Louise Stutes, R-Kodiak, is sponsoring House Bill 28 providing a registration exemption to commercial vessels already licensed through the Commercial Fisheries Entry Commission.

Biden's pick to lead the Commerce Department

President-elect Joe Biden has named an East Coast governor, Gina Raimondo of Rhode Island, as his commerce secretary.

The Commerce Department houses the National Marine Fisheries Service, which regulates the commercial fishing industry.

CDQ companies work a major crab deal

Here's the press release.

Peter Pan sale closes

A new ownership group has acquired processor Peter Pan from Japanese seafood titan Maruha Nichiro.

Here's the press release.

Unalaska outbreak

The city of Unalaska is reporting numerous crewmen aboard two trawlers, the Enterprise and the Legacy, have tested positive for the coronavirus.