Alaska annual herring spawning season
March 27, 2024
Today I decided to get a little help with my fishing blog to explain the importance of mid March and the herring spawn and how it shapes our local fishing season to come. They start their spawn in the Sitka around this time , followed by Prince of Wales island and lastly in 1-3 weeks from now in Ketchikan. One would think that the fishing would go crazy at this time but the fish emit a pheromone or smell that actually drives away the winter king salmon until the spawning is complete.
Southeast Alaska’s herring spawning season is not just a spectacle of nature; it’s a vital component of the region’s intricate marine ecosystem and a cornerstone for sustainable fisheries management. As the waters come alive with shimmering silver masses, fishermen and conservationists alike pay close attention to ensure the delicate balance of nature is preserved for generations to come.
Herring play a crucial role in the food web of Southeast Alaska. Their annual spawning migration brings forth a burst of life, attracting a myriad of marine predators such as humpback whales, sea lions, and seabirds. This abundance of prey sustains these apex predators and supports the diverse ecosystem of the region.
For local fishermen, the herring spawning season is not just about observing nature’s spectacle; it’s also about sustainable harvesting practices. The commercial herring fishery in Southeast Alaska is carefully managed to maintain healthy herring populations and minimize impact on other species. Fisheries managers set strict quotas and closely monitor the harvest to prevent overfishing and ensure the long-term sustainability of the resource.
One key aspect of sustainable herring fishing is the use of purse seine nets, which allow fishermen to target specific schools of herring while minimizing bycatch of non-target species. By carefully selecting fishing grounds and employing responsible harvesting techniques, fishermen can help maintain the ecological balance of the marine environment.
show here is a photo taken from the State of Alaska’s fish and wildlife plane.
The lighter and white areas are where millions of fish have congregated for their annual spawn and these are individual eggs smaller than a pencil eraser!
