A restriction on the use of bait on the Kasilof River was extended last week, the State Department of Fish and Game announced Thursday, Aug 1.

Fishers on the Kasilof from its mouth to the outlet of Tustumena Lake will be limited to one unbaited, single-hook artificial lure from Friday, Aug. 2 through Sept. 15. A similar restriction on the use of bait on the Kasilof expired July 31.

According to an advisory announcement by the department, the restriction is motivated by low returns of wild king salmon, which are counted on the Kasilof through a weir at Crooked Creek. Fish counts available from the department ended on July 31, when only 577 wild kings had been counted, falling short of the escapement goal for the species of 700-1,400.

The restriction, according to the release, is intended to reduce mortality of kings that still will be passing through the river in August.

“These restrictions will reduce mortality of Kasilof River king salmon returning to Crooked Creek or utilizing the main stem,” biologist Matt Miller said in the release. “Our Kasilof River sonar assessment indicates late-run Kasilof River king salmon are main stem spawners with a run timing in July-August.”

Information about fishing opportunity and regulations can be found at adfg.alaska.gov.

Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.