Big Jim

Hatchery production has steadily decreased from highest levels in the late 80’s- early 90’s till today. Yet during years of highest hatchery supplementation the corresponding adult spawning population was some of the lowest on record. Now we have much higher returns yet not much has changed with regard to the way hatcheries do business (except release less fish)

Hatcheries had nothing to do with the larger returns we see now, the ocean conditions in the form of the PDO is what is responsible.