Prince William Sound Sidestripe Shrimp Trawl Fishery Updates (Prince William Sound, Copper & Bering River Commercial & Subsistence Fisheries) While every effort is made to keep this page current, there may be delays in the posting of web page updates.  For the most current announcement/new release information please call our 24-hour recorded-message phone at 907-424-7535 or the Cordova Office at 907-424-3212.

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Issued Friday, April 11, 2008

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY #1

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp will open April 15, 2008. Preliminary harvest levels for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area are established at 59,500 pounds based on the results of the 2007 assessment. The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Section and the Central and Southwest Sections are 14,000 pounds and 33,000 pounds, respectively.

Catch rates in the fishery indicate the sidestripe shrimp resource in PWS is relatively small and conservative management is necessary to ensure a sustainable fishery. The department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations. Shrimp trawls are required to adhere to 5 AAC 31.225, which specifies codend mesh size and a fish excluder device to reduce bycatch of non-target species.

In accordance with 5 AAC 31.230, a commissioner’s permit is required to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at ADF&G offices in Anchorage and Cordova. The permit stipulates both logbook and catch reporting requirements. Timely reporting of shrimp landings is imperative. Fishermen are required to telephone the department on a weekly basis and provide catch reports. Furthermore, all fish tickets, accompanied by completed logbook pages, must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing.

For additional information on the Prince William Sound Area fishery, contact ADF&G in Cordova, at 907-424-3212.

Issued Tuesday, March 20, 2007

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY #1

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp will open April 15, 2007. Preliminary harvest levels for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area are established at 47,500 pounds based on the results of the 2006 assessment. The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Section and the Central and Southwest Sections are 14,000 pounds and 33,000 pounds, respectively.

Catch rates in the fishery indicate the sidestripe shrimp resource in PWS is relatively small and conservative management is necessary to ensure a sustainable fishery. As in past years, the department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations. Shrimp trawls are required to adhere to 5 AAC 31.225, which specifies codend mesh size and orientation and a fish excluder device to reduce bycatch of non-target species.

In accordance with 5 AAC 31.230, a commissioner’s permit is required to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at ADF&G offices in Anchorage and Cordova. The permit stipulates both logbook and catch reporting requirements. Timely reporting of shrimp landings is imperative. Fishermen are required to telephone the department on a weekly basis and provide catch reports. Furthermore, all fish tickets, accompanied by completed logbook pages, must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing.

For additional information on the Prince William Sound Area fishery, contact ADF&G in Cordova, at 907-424-3212.

Issued August 3, 2006

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY ANNOUNCEMENT CENTRAL AND SOUTHWEST SECTIONS CLOSURE

The commercial shrimp trawl season in the Central and Southwest Sections of Prince William Sound (PWS) will close at 4:30 p.m. Thursday August 3, 2006.

The PWS trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2006.  The guideline harvest level for the Central and Southwest Sections was set at 33,000 pounds.  The department monitors this fishery via weekly catch reports, log books and fish tickets.  Harvest data indicate that attainment of the GHL has been achieved.  Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishery in the Central and Southwest Sections of PWS registration area will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 4:30 p.m. Thursday August 3, 2006.  

All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing, and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued June 22, 2006

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY ANNOUNCEMENT NORTHWEST SECTION CLOSURE

The commercial shrimp trawl season in the Northwest Section of Prince William Sound (PWS) will close at 4:30 p.m. Thursday June 22, 2006.

The PWS trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2006.  The guideline harvest level for the Northwest Section was set at 18,500 pounds.  The department monitors this fishery via weekly catch reports, logbooks and fish tickets.  Available harvest data indicates that the GHL has been achieved.  Therefore, the shrimp trawl season in the Northwest Section of Prince William Sound will close at 4:30 p.m. Thursday June 22, 2006.

The preliminary guideline harvest level for the Central Section is 33,000 lb.  The department will continue to monitor the fishery via fish tickets, logbooks, and skipper interviews.

Fishermen are reminded the commissioner’s permit requires that current-trip shrimp harvest and discard by species and area be reported to ADF&G in Cordova each Thursday during regular business hours and must also be received prior to initiating a new trip.  All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued May 31, 2006

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY ANNOUNCEMENT WELLS SECTION CLOSURE

The commercial shrimp trawl season in the Wells Section of Prince William Sound (PWS) will close at 12:00 noon Thursday June 1, 2006.

The PWS trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2006.  The guideline harvest level for the Wells Section was set at 47,000 pounds based upon results of the 2006 assessment survey.  The department monitors this fishery via weekly catch reports, fish tickets, and catch samples.  Available harvest data and fishery catch rates indicate that attainment of the GHL is imminent.  Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Section of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 12:00 noon Thursday June 1, 2006.

The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Section, and the Central and Southwest Sections remain at 14,000 lb and 33,000 lb respectively.  The department will continue to monitor the fishery via fish tickets, logbooks, and skipper interviews.

Fishermen are reminded the commissioner’s permit requires that current-trip shrimp harvest and discard by species and area be reported to ADF&G in Cordova each Thursday during regular business hours (907) 424-3212 and must also be received prior to initiating a new trip.  All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued April 4, 2006

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND TRAWL FISHERY FOR SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp will open April 15, 2006.  Preliminary harvest levels for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area are established at 32,000 pounds based on the results of the 2005 assessment.  The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Section and the Central and Southwest Sections are 14,000 pounds and 33,000 pounds, respectively.

Catch rates in the fishery indicate the sidestripe shrimp resource in PWS is relatively small and conservative management is necessary to ensure a sustainable fishery.  As in past years, the department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.  Shrimp trawls are required to adhere to 5 AAC 31.225, which specifies codend mesh size and orientation and a fish excluder device to reduce bycatch of non-target species.

In accordance with 5 AAC 31.230, a commissioner’s permit is required to participate in this fishery.  Permits may be obtained at ADF&G offices in Anchorage and Cordova.  The permit stipulates both logbook and catch reporting requirements.  Timely reporting of shrimp landings is imperative.  Fishermen are required to telephone the department on a weekly basis and provide catch reports.  Furthermore, all fish tickets accompanied by completed logbook pages, must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing.

Issued Monday, August 8, 2005

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND COMMERCIAL SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY CLOSURE

The Prince William Sound commercial shrimp trawl fishery in Central and Southwest harvest areas will close effective 12:00 noon August 11, 2005. The guideline harvest level for these areas was established at 33,000 pounds. Based upon the current harvest in combination with the projected harvest, the department expects the GHL for this area will be achieved by 12:00 noon Thursday August 11, 2005.

Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishing season in the Prince William Sound Management Area will close for the remainder of the 2005 regulatory season in order to conserve the reproductive viability of the remaining resource.

All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing, and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Thursday, June 30, 2005

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY

NORTHWEST SECTION AREA CLOSURE

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Northwest Section of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 6:00 p.m. Thursday June 30, 2005.

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2005. The guideline harvest level (GHL) for the Northwest Section was established at 14,000 pounds. Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the GHL in this area to be imminent. Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishery in the Northwest Section of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 6:00 p.m. Thursday June 30, 2005.

The preliminary GHL for the remaining Central and Southwest sections is 33,000 lb. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via fish tickets, logbooks, and skipper interviews.

Fishermen are reminded their Commissioner's Permit requires the current-trip shrimp harvest and discard by species and area be reported to ADF&G in Cordova each Thursday during regular business hours (907) 424-3212 and must also be received prior to initiating a new trip. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Thursday, June 2, 2005

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY

PORT WELLS AND WELLS PASSAGE AREA CLOSURE

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Section of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 6:00 p.m. Thursday June 2, 2005.

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2005. The guideline harvest level (GHL) for the Wells Section was established at 32,000 pounds per result of the 2005 assessment survey. Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the GHL in this area to be imminent. Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Section of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 6:00 p.m. Thursday June 2, 2005.

The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Section, and the Central and Southwest Sections remain at 14,000 lb and 33,000 lb respectively. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via fish tickets, logbooks, and skipper interviews.

Fishermen are reminded their commissioner's permit requires the current-trip shrimp harvest and discard by species and area be reported to ADF&G in Cordova each Thursday during regular business hours (907) 424-3212 and must also be received prior to initiating a new trip. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Monday, March 21, 2005

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND TRAWL FISHERY FOR SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp will open April 15, 2005. Preliminary harvest levels for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area are established at 36,700 pounds based on the results of the 2004 assessment. The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Section and the Central and Southwest Sections are 14,000 pounds and 33,000 pounds respectively.

The department is concerned about the condition of the sidestripe shrimp resource in PWS as catch rates indicate that the stock is relatively small. The department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations. Shrimp trawls are required to adhere to 5 AAC 31.225, which specifies codend mesh size and orientation and a fish excluder device to reduce bycatch of non-target species.

In accordance with 5 AAC 31.230, a commissioner's permit is required to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at ADF&G offices in Anchorage and Cordova. The permit stipulates both logbook and catch reporting requirements. Timely reporting of shrimp landings is imperative. Fishermen are required to telephone the department on a weekly basis to provide catch reports. Furthermore, all fish tickets accompanied by completed logbook pages, must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing.

For further information contact Robert Berceli at (907) 424-3212.

Issued Thursday, August 5, 2004

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND COMMERCIAL SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY CLOSURE

The Prince William Sound commercial shrimp trawl fishery in Central and Southwest harvest areas will close effective 12:00 noon August 5, 2004. The guideline harvest level for these areas was established at 33,000 pounds. Based upon the current harvest in combination with the projected harvest, the department expects the GHL for this area will be achieved by 12:00 noon Thursday August 5, 2004.

Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishing season in the Prince William Sound Management Area will close for the remainder of the 2004 regulatory season in order to conserve the reproductive viability of the remaining resource.

All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing, and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Friday, June 4, 2004

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY

NORTHWEST SECTION AREA CLOSURE

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Northwest Section of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 12:00 noon Monday June 7, 2004.

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2004. The guideline harvest level for the Northwest Section was established at 14,000 pounds. Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the GHL in this area to be imminent. Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishery in the Northwest Section of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 12:00 noon Monday June 7, 2004.

The preliminary guideline harvest level for the remaining Central and Southwest Sections is 33,000 lb. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via fish tickets, logbooks, and skipper interviews.

Fishermen are reminded their commissioner's permit requires the current-trip shrimp harvest and discard by species and area be reported to ADF&G in Cordova each Thursday during regular business hours (907) 424-3212 and must also be received prior to initiating a new trip. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Monday, May 24, 2004

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY

PORT WELLS AND WELLS PASSAGE AREA CLOSURE

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Section of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 12:00 noon Tuesday May 25, 2004.

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2004. The guideline harvest level for the Wells Section was established at 36,700 pounds per result of the 2004 assessment survey. Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the GHL in this area to be imminent. Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Section of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 12:00 noon Tuesday May 25, 2004.

The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Section, and the Central and Southwest Sections remain at 14,000 lb and 33,000 lb respectively. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via fish tickets, logbooks, and skipper interviews.

Fishermen are reminded their commissioner's permit requires the current-trip shrimp harvest and discard by species and area be reported to ADF&G in Cordova each Thursday during regular business hours (907) 424-3212 and must also be received prior to initiating a new trip. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Monday, May 17, 2004

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY

WELLS SECTION ASSESSMENT SURVEY

Results of the trawl shrimp assessment survey conducted in the Wells Section during May 8-11, 2004 yielded a biomass estimate of 183,631 lb. A 20% harvest rate provides for an allowable harvest of 36,700 lb. The current shrimp harvest in the Wells Section is approximately 27,000 lb. Therefore, the commercial trawl shrimp fishery in the Wells Section will continue until attainment of the harvest guideline is imminent.

The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Section, and the Central and Southwest Sections remain at 14,000 lb and 33,000 lb respectively. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via fish tickets, logbooks, and skipper interviews.

Fishermen are reminded that conditions of their commissioner's permit require that the current-trip shrimp harvest and discard by species and area be reported to ADF&G in Cordova each Thursday during regular business hours (907) 424-3212 and must also be received prior to initiating a new trip. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Wednesday, March 24, 2004

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND TRAWL FISHERY FOR SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp will open on April 15, 2004. Preliminary harvest levels for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area are established at 32,000 pounds based on the results of the 2003 assessment. The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Section and the Central and Southwest Sections are 14,000 pounds and 33,000 pounds respectively.

The department is concerned about the condition of the sidestripe shrimp resource in PWS. Catch and catch rates indicate that the PWS sidestripe stock is relatively small. The department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

A department permit is required to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at ADF&G offices in Anchorage and Cordova. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained with the department permits. Timely reporting of shrimp landings are imperative and fishermen will be required to telephone the department with weekly catch reports. Furthermore, all fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

All shrimp trawls must contain a fish excluder device to reduce bycatch of non-target species. The fish excluder device must consist of a rigid grate with parallel bars spaced not more than 2½ inches apart. Shrimp trawls must also have an outlet to allow the escape of fish or other objects that are too large to pass between the bars of the grate. Other shrimp trawl gear requirements are specified in 5 AAC 31.225 Lawful Shrimp Trawl Gear For Registration Area E.

For further information contact Robert Berceli at (907) 424-3212.

Issued Monday, July 14, 2003

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY CLOSURE

The Prince William Sound commercial shrimp trawl fishery in Central and Southwest harvest areas will close effective 12:00 noon Tuesday July 15, 2003. The guideline harvest level for these areas was established at 33,000 pounds. Based upon the current harvest in combination with the projected harvest, the department expects the GHL for this area will be achieved by 12:00 noon Tuesday July 15, 2003.

Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishing season in the Prince William Sound Management Area will close for the remainder of the 2003 regulatory season in order to conserve the reproductive viability of the remaining resource.

All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing, and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Thursday, May 22, 2003

PERRY PASSAGE AREA CLOSURE
WELLS PASSAGE AND PORT WELLS AREA TO REOPEN

The commercial shrimp trawl fishery in the Perry Passage portion (waters north of 60° 27' N. lat. and west of 147° 20' W. long.) of the Prince William Sound Management Area will close effective 12:00 noon Friday May 23, 2003. The guideline harvest level (GHL) for the Perry Passage area is 14,000 pounds and the harvest by three vessels is approximately 13,000 pounds. Based upon contact with fishery participants and reported catch rates in this area, attainment of the guideline harvest level is imminent.

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area of Prince William Sound will reopen to commercial shrimp trawl fishing from 12:00 noon Tuesday May 27, 2003 to 12:00 noon Thursday May 29, 2003.

The commercial shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area opened on April 15, 2003 with a preliminary GHL set equal to the 2002 GHL of 23,500 lb. The fishery closed at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday May 7, 2003 to provide the department the opportunity to compile harvest data from current fish tickets, review log book data, and evaluate the results of the 2003 assessment survey.

Results of the assessment survey conducted in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area during May 4 - 7, 2003 yielded a biomass estimate of 159,771 lb or an allowable harvest of 31,954 lb (applying a 20% harvest rate). The current shrimp harvest in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area totals 25,330 lb. Therefore, the commercial shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area will reopen from 12:00 noon Tuesday May 27, 2003 to 12:00 noon Thursday May 29, 2003 to provide an opportunity to the harvest the remaining GHL of 6,624 lb.

Issued Wednesday, May 7, 2003

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY
PORT WELLS AND WELLS PASSAGE AREA CLOSURE

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 9:00 a.m. Wednesday May 7, 2003. The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2003. The guideline harvest level for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area was established at 23,500 pounds per result of the 2002 assessment survey. Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the GHL in this area to be imminent. A closure of the fishery in the Port Wells and Wells Passage area is warranted at this time to provide the department the opportunity to compile harvest data from current fish tickets, review log book data, and evaluate the results of the 2003 assessment survey.

The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Shrimp Trawl Fishing District and the Central and Southwest areas remain at 14,000 lbs and 33,000 lbs respectively. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

Fishermen are reminded that a department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. Fishermen are reminded that accurate and timely reporting via fish tickets and logbooks is important for management of the fishery. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Monday, April 14, 2003

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND TRAWL FISHERY FOR SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp will open on April 15, 2003. Preliminary harvest levels for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area are established at 23,500 pounds based on the results of the 2002 assessment. The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Shrimp Trawl Fishing District and the Central and Southwest areas are 14,000 pounds and 33,000 pounds respectively.

The department is concerned about the condition of the sidestripe shrimp resource in PWS. Catch and catch rates indicate that the PWS sidestripe stock is relatively small. The department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

A department permit is required to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at ADF&G offices in Anchorage and Cordova. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained with the department permits. Timely reporting of shrimp landings are imperative and fishermen will be required to telephone the department with weekly catch reports. Furthermore, all fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

All shrimp trawls must contain a fish excluder device to reduce bycatch of non-target species. The fish excluder device must consist of a rigid grate with parallel bars spaced not more than 2½ inches apart. Shrimp trawls must also have an outlet to allow the escape of fish or other objects that are too large to pass between the bars of the grate. Other shrimp trawl gear requirements are specified in 5 AAC 31.225 Lawful Shrimp Trawl Gear For Registration Area E.

For further information contact Robert Berceli at (907) 424-3212.

Issued Monday, August 5, 2002

PRINCE WILLIAM SOUND SIDESTRIPE SHRIMP TRAWL FISHERY AREA CLOSURE

The shrimp trawl fishery in Central and Southwest portion of the Prince William Sound Management Area will close effective 3:00 p.m. Monday August 5, 2002. The guideline harvest level for the Central and Southwest areas was established at 33,000 pounds. Based upon current harvest data, the remaining GHL in this area is approximately 700 pounds. The department determines this amount to be below a level to provide for a manageable fishery.

The commercial shrimp trawl fishing season in Port Wells/Wells Pass portion and Perry Pass portion of the Prince William Sound Management Area closed on May 27 and June 27, 2002 respectively. Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishing season in all waters of the Prince William Sound Management Area will close for the remainder of the 2002 regulatory season effective 3:00 p.m. August 5, 2002.

Issued Thursday, June 27, 2002

PERRY PASSAGE AREA CLOSURE

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Perry Pass portion (waters north of 60° 27' N. lat. and west of 147° 20' W. long.) of the Prince William Sound Management Area will close effective 6:00 p.m. Thursday June 27, 2002. The guideline harvest level for the Perry Pass area was established at 14,000 pounds. Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the GHL in this area to be imminent.

The preliminary guideline harvest level for the Central and Southwest areas was established at 33,000 pounds. The harvest to date by three vessels is approximately 10,000 pounds. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via fish ticket landings, logbooks, and skipper interviews.

Fishermen are reminded that a department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. Fishermen are reminded that accurate and timely reporting via fish tickets and logbooks is important for management of the fishery. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within seven days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Friday, May 24, 2002

PORT WELLS AND WELLS PASSAGE AREA CLOSURE

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 8:00 p.m. Monday May 27, 2002. The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2002. The guideline harvest level for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area was established at 23,500 pounds per result of the 2002 assessment survey. Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the GHL in this area to be imminent.

The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Shrimp Trawl Fishing District and the Central and Southwest areas remain at 14,000 lbs and 33,000 lbs respectively. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

Fishermen are reminded that a department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. Fishermen are reminded that accurate and timely reporting via fish tickets and logbooks is important for management of the fishery. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Tuesday, April 9, 2002

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp will open on April 15, 2002. Preliminary harvest levels for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area are established at 34,000 pounds based on the results of the 2001 assessment. The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Shrimp Trawl Fishing District and the Central and Southwest areas are 14,000 pounds and 33,000 pounds respectively.

The department is concerned about the condition of the sidestripe shrimp resource in PWS. Catch and catch rates indicate that the PWS sidestripe stock is relatively small. The department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

A department permit is required to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at ADF&G offices in Anchorage and Cordova. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained with the department permits. Timely reporting of shrimp landings are imperative and fishermen will be required to telephone the department with weekly catch reports. Furthermore, all fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

All shrimp trawls must contain a fish excluder device to reduce bycatch of non-target species. The fish excluder device must consist of a rigid grate with parallel bars spaced not more than 2 ½ inches apart. Shrimp trawls must also have an outlet to allow the escape of fish or other objects that are too large to pass between the bars of the grate. Other shrimp trawl gear requirements are specified in 5 AAC 31.225 Lawful Shrimp Trawl Gear For Registration Area E.

For further information contact Robert Berceli at (907) 424-3212.

Issued Friday, July 13, 2001

PORT WELLS AND WELLS PASSAGE AREA REOPENS

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area of Prince William Sound will reopen to commercial shrimp trawl fishing from 7:00 a. m. Tuesday July 17, 2001 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday July 19, 2001.

An assessment survey conducted in Port Wells and Wells Passage during May 13 - 16, 2001 yielded a biomass estimate of 171,941 lb. Applying a 20% harvest rate to the biomass estimate results in a 2001 GHL of 34,388 lb. Several openings and closures of the fishery in this area have occurred throughout the season to allow the department to evaluate the harvest. The shrimp harvest to date in this area totals 31,729 lb. Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area will reopen from 7:00 a. m. Tuesday July 17, 2001 to 7:00 p.m. Thursday July 19, 2001 to provide an opportunity to the harvest the remaining GHL of 2,659 lb. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

A department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. Fishermen are reminded to telephone the department with weekly catch reports. Furthermore, all fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

For further information contact Robert Berceli at (907) 424-3212.

Issued Saturday, June 23, 2001

PORT WELLS AND WELLS PASSAGE AREA CLOSURE

The commercial shrimp trawl fishing season in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area of Prince William Sound will close at 12:00 noon, Sunday June 24, 2001.

The commercial shrimp trawl fishing season in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area opened on April 15, 2001 with preseason guideline harvest level (GHL) of 25,000 lb. The preseason GHL was set equal to the 2000 GHL based upon the 2000 assessment survey. The fishery closed at 12:00 noon Friday May 18, 2001 with a harvest of 23,615 lb. The closure provided the department an opportunity to compile fish ticket data, review log book data, and evaluate the results of the 2001 assessment survey.

An assessment survey conducted in Port Wells and Wells Passage during May 13-16, 2001 yielded a biomass estimate of 171,941 lb. Applying a 20% harvest rate to the biomass estimate resulted in a 2001 GHL of 34,388 lb. Consequently, the shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area reopened 12:00 noon Monday June 11, 2001 for the harvest of an additional 10,773 lb.

Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the 34,388 GHL to be imminent. Therefore, the commercial shrimp trawl fishing season in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area of Prince William Sound will close at 12:00 noon Sunday June 24, 2001.

Fishers are reminded that a department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. Fishers are also reminded that accurate and timely reporting via fish tickets and logbooks is important for management of the fishery. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Thursday, June 7, 2001

PORT WELLS AND WELLS PASSAGE AREA REOPENS

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area of Prince William Sound will reopen to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 12:00 noon Monday June 11, 2001.

The preseason guideline harvest level (GHL) of 25,000 lb for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area was set equal to the 2000 GHL based upon the 2000 assessment survey. The fishery in the Port Wells and Wells Passage area closed at 12:00 noon Friday May 18, 2001 with a harvest of 23,615 lb. The closure provided the department an opportunity to compile fish ticket data, review log book data, and evaluate the results of the 2001 assessment survey.

An assessment survey conducted in Port Wells and Wells Passage during May 13 - 16, 2001 yielded a biomass estimate of 171,941 lb. Applying a 20% harvest rate to the biomass estimate results in a 2001 GHL of 34,388 lb. Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area will reopen 12:00 noon Monday June 11, 2001 for the harvest of an additional 10,773 lb. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

A department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. fishers are reminded to telephone the department with weekly catch reports. Furthermore, all fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

For further information contact Robert Berceli at (907) 424-3212.

Issued Thursday, May 24, 2001

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Perry Pass area of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 12:00 noon Sunday, May 27, 2001. The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2001. The guideline harvest level (GHL) for the Perry Pass area was established at 14,000 pounds. Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the GHL in this area to be imminent.

The preliminary guideline harvest level for the Central and Southwest areas remain at 33,000 lb respectively. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

fishers are reminded that a department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. fishers are reminded that accurate and timely reporting via fish tickets and logbooks is important for management of the fishery. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Thursday, May 17, 2001

The shrimp trawl fishery in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area of Prince William Sound will close to commercial shrimp trawl fishing at 12:00 noon Friday May 18, 2001. The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2001. The guideline harvest level for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area was established at 25,000 pounds per result of the 2000 assessment survey. Based upon harvest reports and observed catch rates, the department projects the attainment of the GHL in this area to be imminent. A closure of the fishery in the Port Wells and Wells Passage area is warranted at this time to provide the department the opportunity to compile harvest data from current fish tickets, review log book data, and evaluate the results of the 2001 assessment survey.

The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Shrimp Trawl Fishing District and the Central and Southwest areas remain at 14,000 lbs and 33,000 lbs respectively. The department will continue to monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

fishers are reminded that a department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. fishers are reminded that accurate and timely reporting via fish tickets and logbooks is important for management of the fishery. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Tuesday, July 25, 2000

The 2000 GHL of the Central and Southwest harvest areas was established at 33,000 pounds. Based upon the projected harvest, the department expects the GHL for this area will be achieved by 9:00 a.m. Wednesday, July 26, 2000. Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishing season in the Central and Southwest areas of the Prince William Sound Management Area will close for the remainder of the 2000 regulatory season in order to conserve the reproductive viability of the remaining sidestripe resource.

All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Tuesday, June 20, 2000

The 2000 GHL of the Perry Pass section of the Northwest Shrimp Trawl Fishing District (NSTFD) was established at 14,000 pounds. Due to the few number of participants, the harvest from vessels fishing in the Perry Pass section of the NSTFD remains confidential. However, based upon catch rates, the department expects the GHL for this area will be achieved by noon, Tuesday June 20, 2000. Therefore, the shrimp trawl fishing season in the NSTFD of the Prince William Sound Management Area (all waters north of 60° 27' N. lat. and west of 147° 20' W. long.) will close for the remainder of the 2000 regulatory season in order to conserve the reproductive viability of the remaining sidestripe resource.

The department is concerned about the status of the sidestripe shrimp resource in PWS. Catch and catch rates indicate that the PWS sidestripe stock is relatively small and declining. The department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

A department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. fishers are reminded that accurate and timely reporting via fish tickets and logbooks is important for management of the fishery. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Friday, May 26, 2000

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp opened on April 15, 2000. Preliminary harvest levels for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area were established at 19,000 pounds based on the results of the 1999 assessment.

Data from the 2000 assessment survey indicates the guideline harvest level (GHL) in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area be adjusted to 25,000 pounds. The reported harvest from three vessels in the Wells Passage and Port Wells area remains confidential. However, based upon observed catch rates, the department expects the GHL for this area will be achieved by mid June. A news release announcing the closure of the Port Wells and Wells Passage area will be issued when attainment of the GHL becomes imminent.

The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Shrimp Trawl Fishing District and the Central and Southwest areas remain at 14,000 lbs and 33,000 lbs respectively.

The department is concerned about the decline of the sidestripe shrimp resource in PWS. Commercial catch and catch rates indicate that the PWS sidestripe stock is relatively small and declining. Survey catch rates in Port Wells and Wells Passage area have declined from over 200 lb/hr in the early 1990's, to 44 lb/hr in 1999. The department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

A department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. fishers are reminded that accurate and timely reporting via fish tickets and logbooks is important for management of the fishery. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

Issued Wednesday, April 5, 2000

The Prince William Sound (PWS) trawl fishery for sidestripe shrimp will open on April 15, 2000. Preliminary harvest levels for the Port Wells and Wells Passage area are established at 19,000 pounds based on the results of the 1999 assessment. The preliminary guideline harvest levels for the remainder of the Northwest Shrimp Trawl Fishing District and the Central and Southwest areas are 14,000 lbs and 33,000 lbs respectively.

The department is concerned about the decline of the sidestripe shrimp resource in Prince William Sound. Catch and catch rates indicate that the Prince William Sound sidestripe stock is relatively small. The department will monitor the fishery via logbooks, skipper interviews, and onboard observations.

A department permit is required in order to participate in this fishery. Permits may be obtained at the Cordova or Anchorage offices of ADF&G. Logbooks are also a requirement of this fishery and may be obtained at one of the above locations. fishers are reminded that accurate and timely reporting via fish tickets and logbooks is important for management of the fishery. All fish tickets must be received in the Cordova office within 7 days of landing and must be accompanied by completed logbook forms.

All shrimp trawls must contain a fish excluder device to reduce bycatch of non-target species. At the March 2000 meeting, the Alaska Board of Fisheries defined a fish excluder device to consist of a rigid grate with parallel bars spaced not more than 2½" apart. This definition will become effective in regulation approximately in June 2000. A separate new release will be issued regarding the effective date.