Preliminary estimates for the 2008 commercial salmon season show a statewide harvest numbering less in total salmon caught and monetary value than last year, according to a press release by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.

The estimated amount caught by commercial fisherman this year, at 146 million, though considered the 16th largest harvest since Alaska statehood 49 years ago, was 67 million less than 2007’s 213 million. However, 2008’s final prediction was 13.5 million fish greater than the preseason forecast of 132.5 million.

The value of 2008’s catch, a total of $409.3 million, was only $7.4 million less than last year, though still higher than the most recent 10-year average (2007-1998).

In Kodiak, 2008 again marked a low commercial fishing effort in the commercial salmon season, decreasing slightly from last year. Of the 608 eligible commercial salmon permits available, 277 — or 45.6 percent — made commercial landings, according to a season summary of Kodiak commercial salmon issued by ADF&G.

The estimated total ex-vessel value was approximately $27.87 million, or slightly above the 10-year average of $24.32 million.

Jim McCullough, ADF&G commercial fisheries regional supervisor for the area including Kodiak, said a variety of factors led to smaller commercial fishing here, including higher costs and a loss of experienced management.

“It’s been a trend here for the last six or eight years,” McCullough said. With higher costs of fuel, groceries and equipment, “It’s been tough for people to gear up and go out fishing knowing that it’s going to cut into their profitability.”

Kodiak’s industry also loses knowledgeable long-timers who retire or leave the area as the years go on, McCullough said.

“We’re getting older. It’s tougher to be out there on the deck of the boat when you’re in your 60s or 70s.”

McCullough said a third factor is a loss in value of the fish, though he said this trend is subsiding as consumers realize wild fish is better than farmed fish.

The harvest of Kodiak’s valuable fish, the sockeye (red salmon), also did not fare well this year in comparison to the past 10-year average. The 2008 harvest for sockeye was approximately 1.8 million, compared to the 3.05 million 10-year average.

Projections for the 2009 season for Kodiak will be available soon after Jan. 1.

Mirror writer Bradley Zint can be reached via e-mail at bzint@kodiakdailymirror.com.