Strong Salmon Season Predicted In Rivers After Many Down Years
NIMBUS FISH HATCHERY (CBS13) — Experts are predicting one of the strongest salmon seasons we've seen in years.
The Department of Fish and Wildlife says we're in store for an above-normal salmon season. So many are already coming upstream from the ocean, you can see them slapping up against the weir at the Nimbus Hatchery.
"It could be one of the best runs we've had on big fish in a long, long, long time."
There may be many other fish in the sea, but this year, there's expected to be a lot more salmon in our local rivers.
"Literally you could walk across the river on 'em. They were just stacked."
Fish and Wildlife says the salmon industry is a $300 million business in Sacramento and along the coast.
The news has fishermen excited.
Several were seen along the American River today, casting lines.
Khanh Ngo caught a 22-pounder.
"Bring home and give it to my sister. Yeah, they love fish," he said, laughing.
Wildlife officials say the influx of salmon is because of a healthier ocean environment.
But exactly why is unclear.
"We've had some bad years with salmon, some really bad years. They closed it down for awhile, so we're really looking ahead for this."
And more people fishing for salmon brings in more business to Broadway Bait, Rod And Gun.
"'Are the salmon around here yet? Are the big ones here yet?' They're getting excited, about ready to go out, and this the first time we've had this in a few years," said owner Chris Fulster.
Experts say many more active seasons are on the way.
"Once the weather cools down, then the fish holed up down in the bay in the ocean are just gonna shoot up here."
Experts say the best time to fish for salmon this year will be late September to early November.
