“This summer tribal fishery couldn’t come at a better time since the public has been inundated with the unfortunate news of salmon fishery closures in other parts of the west,” said Olney Patt Jr., executive director for the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission. “But the Columbia’s summer run is in good shape and our tribes are committed to providing public access to this unique resource.”

Tribal fishers are taking to the river this week for the first of three anticipated commercial fishing seasons, giving the public the opportunity to purchase salmon and steelhead. Sales are occurring on a daily basis, until further notice. Sockeye salmon is not available for sale at this time.

Biologists forecast this summer’s run of Chinook at 52,000 upriver fish. The Commission’s Salmon Marketing Program anticipates 9,000 fish will be harvested with peak availability over the next two weeks.

The Indian salmon harvest reflects age-old traditions that were preserved 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.

Tribal fishers may be found selling fish at a number of locations along the river: Marine Park at Cascade Locks, The Dalles’ bridge and the boat launch near Roosevelt, Washington. Commercial sales will not occur on Corps of Engineers property at Bonneville Dam. The public is urged to call the salmon marketing program at (888) 289-1855 before heading up the river to find out where the day’s catch is being sold. More information is available on the salmon marketing website indiansalmonharvest.com. Price is determined at the point of sale and sales are cash only.