SeaDNA -
It might be interesting to focus on just the relative value of the salmon fisheries. That info might be hard to tease out.

A 2006 economic study looking at the value of fishing in this State (available on WDFW's web site) stated that of the 65 million dollars that the commercial industry received at the dock only $9.5 million (or 15%) was from salmon. In terms of pounds landed groundfish was the biggie and in value it was shellfish.

In the same study the economic value to the State from the recreational fishery was pegged at $900 million. Of the total angler trips 23% were directed towards salmon.

Two key points jump out from the above -

1) even if non-treaty commercial salmon fishing was eliminate entirely the commercial industry would hardly be "gutted".

2) Prioritization of recreational salmon fisheries over commercial fisheries will maximize the return to the State's economy.

Curt