Kevin is correct; the Snohomish even year run of pinks has been building over the last 25 years. It has grown from less than 200 fish in 1980 until this year the forecast is for 80,000 (see North of Falcon 2004 salmon forecasts). The interim escapement goal for this popualtion has been established at 30,000 and the 2002 escapement was 44,000.

This fish are much different from the odd year fish in that they enter the river much earlier and spawn a month earlier. Because of this early run timing they average a smaller size (typcially 3# or less) and tend not to mill in the salt water areas but migrate directly to the river - as a result they are much brighter and tend to be better biters. The fishery starting in August is the first legitimate river opportunity at these fish in decades. As it is a new fishery the regulations were purposely set conservatively with the selective gear restrictions.

Tight lines
S malma