As we pass the peak harvesting weeks for pink salmon in Alaska and Russia, this year may turn out to be one of the worst seasons on record - a sharp contrast to one of the best seasons on record last year.

Alaska's pink salmon harvest is about 35 percent of the forecast, while Russia's stands at approximately 50 percent, resulting in an estimated combined global harvest of around 137,000 metric tonnes.

This indicates that the current combined harvest for pinks from Alaska and Russia is over 80 percent lower than last year's global total and 47 percent below the last even-year harvest.



The general consensus from the Alaska Department and Fish and Game is that overall this year’s pink salmon returns appear to be very poor and that there are not currently any indications that returns are significantly late.

Although the pink salmon harvest typically goes right through to September, some fishermen have already indicated that they may limit their participation for the remainder of the season.

Regarding fish size, latest reports out of Alaska are showing fish out of Prince William Sound about 3.5 pounds. Last year, overall pink salmon sizes globally were lower than both the 5 and 10 year averages. Larger fish came out of British Columbia Canada at around 3.76 pounds, and smallest out of Russia at over a pound less.



The current landscape of Pink Salmon supply is that the market is, and will be extremely short on this species, and when supply is short, prices trend up.

If you are still looking for Pink Salmon, our recommendation is to call your Tradex Foods Business Representative as soon as possible.



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