the film forum library tutorial contact

Tribal Fishery is Open for the Season by Staff The Oregonian, August 26, 2009

As of this week, the public can purchase fish directly from tribal fishers along the Columbia River.

On Monday, the Nez Perce, Umatilla, Warm Springs and Yakama tribes opened their 2009 fall commercial season for the sale of Chinook, coho, steelhead, walleye, shad and carp.

The season's signature fish is Fall Chinook, the run of which is forecast to be slightly above the average for recent years. Fishing and selling should last into late September, though tribal fishery managers will monitor the run and harvest and make adjustments as necessary, according to the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission.

"The tribes are restoring salmon habitat and putting salmon in the rivers so they can spawn naturally. As a result, more salmon are coming back," said Paul Lumley, executive director of the commission. "All are welcome to experience the Columbia River Indian salmon harvest by purchasing salmon."

The customary sale sites for fish include Marine Park in Cascade Locks, Lone Pine in The Dalles, North Bonneville - one mile east of Bonneville Dam, and Columbia Point in Washington's Tri-Cities area.

Here are some tips for buying fish from the commission:

• Pack a cooler with ice
• Sales from tribal fishers generally run from 10 a.m. to dusk.
• Price is determined at the point of sale.
• Most sales are cash only.
• Buyers should request a receipt.
• Tribal fishers can advise on topics including fish freshness and preparation.