By Laine Welch

Pacific halibut total “removals” for 2022 were increased to 41.22 million pounds, up from 39 million in 2021. The catch limits for commercial, sport, subsistence and bycatch users were announced last week by the International Pacific Halibut Commission.   For Alaska, all regions except for Southeast will see increased commercial catch limits. The fishery will run from March 6- December 7.

Areas:

2A – WA/OR/CA

2B – Canada

2C – Southeast AK

3A – Central Gulf of AK

3B – Western Gulf of AK

4A – Aleutians

4B – Aleutians

4CDE – Bering Sea

Bycatch watchers – At the first hour-long meeting of Gov. Dunleavy’s Bycatch Review Task Force on Jan. 28, the 13-members introduced themselves and summarized their backgrounds. The next virtual meeting was set for Feb. 11 from 9-5.

Find more at www.alaskafishradio.com