Present State of Asian Coho Salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) Stocks

Data from pelagic trawl surveys by TINRO-center from 1987 to 1996 in the Okhotsk Sea indicate that coho abundance is underestimated by coastal observations. The approximate Asian coho spawning biomass is 7,300-16,000 tons for the 1990s. Ways of improving Asian coho salmon resource management are discussed. Collection of precise fishery and escapement statistics must be expanded in areas previously considered as non-traditional for coho. More attention must be paid to protection of coho spawning grounds from illegal fishing. Spawning stock abundance estimates must be substantiated by marine survey results. If Asian coho reproduction can be successful throughout the area around the Russian Far East, an artificial rearing program is highly recommended, which would not likely be detrimental to wild populations.