"We are excited that the pre-season forecast for Chinook salmon has allowed us to open the sales of scaffold and hook-and-line caught Chinook salmon and steelhead to the public," says Stuart Ellis, fishery scientist with CRITFC.

Opening at 6 a.m. on Saturday, June 16, Chinook salmon, steelhead, walleye, shad and carp will be available for purchase from tribal fishers, on a daily basis, until further notice. A lower than expected return of sockeye salmon can't support a commercial season and sockeye will not be available for purchase.

In addition to the over-the-bank sales, the tribes are opening a commercial gillnet fishery. Running from 6 a.m. on Monday June 18 through 6 p.m. on Wednesday June 20, this is the only commercial gillnet fishery planned at this time. Although additional commercial gillnet sales are anticipated, none have been scheduled.

The public can score the fresh catch from tribal fishers at numerous locations along the Columbia River banks including: Marine Park in Cascade Locks, Lone Pine in The Dalles, North Bonneville (one mile east of Bonneville Dam) and Columbia Point in Washington's Tri-Cities area.

"The prices that people pay for fresh, tribally-caught salmon on the River are among the lowest for wild salmon in the region," says Charles Hudson, Public Information Manager for CRITFC. "Not only do you get a great quality product, you help the tribal fishers support their families and communities. It is truly a win-win situation for everyone."

Biologists are predicting this summer's run of Chinook to include 45,600 upriver fish – a moderate return according to biologists. Although this should allow for consistent commercial sales throughout the summer, the number of fish available for purchase will be lower than previous years.

The Indian salmon harvest reflects age-old traditions cemented by an 1855 treaty between the four Columbia Basin tribes and the U.S. federal government. Nutrient-rich salmon, flush with heart-healthful omega-3 fatty acids, figure prominently in native culture. Tribal members have long honored its importance for food, religion and livelihood.

Indian fishers and resource managers also link salmon's importance with stewardship, working to restore once-robust runs decimated by dam construction and other challenges. Tribal staff and the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission developed the restoration plan Wy-Kan-Ush-Mi Wa-Kish-Wit, or "Spirit of the Salmon," to help replenish Columbia Basin fisheries. All this makes for a brief period to experience the Columbia River Indian salmon harvest. So grab the car keys, pack a cooler with some ice and keep the following tips in mind:

• Sales from tribal fishers generally run 10 a.m. to dusk.
• Sales sites are along the Columbia River from Bonneville Dam in Oregon to the Tri-Cities in Washington.
• Most sales are cash only.
• Buyers should request a receipt.
• Tribal fishers can advise on topics including fish freshness and preparation.
• Times, days and locations might vary with vendors. Call the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission's toll-free recording at (888) 289-1855 for details.