Willamette steelhead returns surge after sea lions removed

UkeeDreamin

Well-Known Member
https://www.ktvz.com/news/willamette-steelhead-returns-surge-after-sea-lions-removed/1065470037

ODFW is Forecasting twice the return of steelhead this season compared to last year, and quadruple 2017’s return - which is the worst on record, following a sea lion trap and euthanization program at Willamette falls.

Studies showed California sea lions caused up to 25% of this stocks mortality and a specific neck-point at the Willamette falls, where sea-lions congregate to prey on the staging, returning steelhead before they make their way up the falls, was the focus area for removal.

Cheers!

Ukee
 
The Willamette set up is a straight up perfect trap for the sea lions to feed!
 
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The Willamette set up is a straight up perfect trap for the sea lions to feed!

As are the test gillnet fisheries on the Fraser River. I have spent many days sampling salmon from these test fisheries and the amount of fish (samples) lost to seals was staggering. If I was to sample 20 chinooks during the day, at least that many fish were taken by seals before we could pull in the net. The seals followed the sample boat as soon as we left the dock; amazing how fast they learn of an easy food source.
 
Does the Albion record fish lost to seals and sea lions ;):rolleyes:

Don't know about now, but seal encounters used to be documented by both Whonnock and Albion. Sea lions were never a problem but were common during the (now scant) eulachon migration. Amazing how big those bastards are!
 
Don't know about now, but seal encounters used to be documented by both Whonnock and Albion. Sea lions were never a problem but were common during the (now scant) eulachon migration. Amazing how big those bastards are!

Seal are still very common at the test fishery numerous notes about them hauling in pieces of fish or there complete sets being picked at.
 
Its very early in the chinook season, but the Chinook counts are also up at the Willamette, 119 have passed vs only 20 last year. The 10 year average is 135 by this time in April.

Those big beasts must be able to hoover up a number of fish each day.

Hopefully this will serve as a good example for what can be achieved up here with selective “removal” of problem animals.
 
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