Two Washington men cited for fishing closed waters in Egegik

Alaska Wildlife Troopers cited two Washington men on July 10 for commercial fishing in closed waters in Egegik under the Bristol Bay Salmon Enforcement Program. Rowan Stewart, 31, of Vashon, and Conrad Warton, 36, of Leavenworth, are both scheduled for arraignment at Naknek District Court on August 5. Both are presumed innocent unless proven guilty.

According to the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, closed waters exist to protect salmon stocks, ensure escapement goals are met, and provide for an orderly fishery. Egegik's economy depends heavily on commercial fishing and fish processing jobs tied to the Bristol Bay salmon season; nonresidents hold a significant share of permits and crew positions in the fishery.