News Release: 2026 Kuskokwim River Temporary Special Action

ANCHORAGE, Alaska – The Yukon Delta National Wildlife Refuge Manager has determined that federal management is necessary for conservation and the continuation of subsistence uses of Chinook and Chum salmon within the federal public waters of the Kuskokwim River drainage in 2026. The closure of Federal public waters to the use of gillnets and the harvest of Chinook and Chum salmon beginning June 1 is based on conservation concerns and the need to provide subsistence harvest opportunities throughout the Kuskokwim River drainage. The temporary special action can be found online at https://www.doi.gov/subsistence/fisheries-special-actions.

The federal in-season manager will consider announcing gillnet fishing opportunities for federally qualified subsistence users after evaluating conservation needs and consulting with partners.

Information about the Federal Subsistence Management Program may be found on the web at www.doi.gov/subsistence or by visiting www.facebook.com/subsistencealaska. 

Missing out on the latest federal subsistence issues? To receive emails updates on Federal Subsistence Management Program activities, send a request to subsistence@ios.doi.gov. 

-###-