Fisheries biologists estimate that 422,000 upriver fall Chinook will enter the Columbia River. This year’s fall Chinook run is expected to be slightly larger than the 10-year average of 418,800. Harvest mangers expect that sales will continue into late September. Managers will monitor returning run size and adjust the harvest levels and fishing periods accordingly.

“The tribes are restoring salmon habitat and putting salmon in the rivers so they can spawn naturally. As a result, more salmon are coming back,” said Paul Lumley, executive director of the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission. “All are welcome to experience the Columbia River Indian salmon harvest by purchasing salmon.”

The tribal fishery offers an ample supply of fish for the public through over-the-bank sales throughout the area. Common sales locations include: 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 fall season fisheries are very important to tribal fishing families and provide an important economic benefit to communities along the river. The fall fishery is often viewed as the backbone for the tribes’ fishing economy because of its reliability.

So pack a cooler with ice and keep the following tips in mind:

• Sales from tribal fishers generally run from 10 a.m. to dusk.
• Price is determined at the point of sale.
• Most sales are cash only.
• Buyers should request a receipt.
• Tribal fishers can advise on topics including fish freshness and preparation.

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.