Strong sockeye at China Poot, but clammers now need a permit before heading out

Sockeye numbers are strong at China Poot Bay in Kachemak Bay, and the Alaska Department of Fish and Game says fishing is expected to stay productive through the rest of July.

Michael Booz, Sport Fish Area Management Biologist for the Homer office, reported Tuesday that "Very strong numbers of sockeye continue to build up in the dipnet area. Fishing is expected to remain productive into July." Good numbers are also showing at Tutka Lagoon and in front of China Poot Creek. Snagging for sockeye was good over the last several days, and similar conditions are expected through the week. The China Poot Bay personal-use dipnet salmon fishery is open to Alaska residents only; no permit is required to dipnet for salmon there.

Anglers planning a razor clam trip should know that a permit is now required for Cook Inlet and North Gulf Coast sport and personal-use razor clam harvest under an emergency order listed in the report.

The report also lists a King Salmon Restrictions in Cook Inlet Salt Waters emergency order that anglers should review before heading out. The Ninilchik River remains closed to all sport fishing through July 15. The Anchor River and Deep Creek reopened July 1 to species other than king salmon, with single-hook artificial-lure gear restrictions in effect. Anglers should review current emergency orders before launching.