Sarita Surplus Fishery
What:
Since 2021, Huu-ay-aht’s Lands and Natural Resources team has led a science-based, commercial surplus Chinook fishery on the Sarita River. This fishery allows Huu-ay-aht citizens to participate in seine netting for the harvest and sale of hatchery Chinook entering the system.
Who:
Registered Huu-ay-aht Citizens may participate in this fishery and is completed under the guidance of the Huu-ay-aht Lands and Resources team.
Where:
Sarita River, Huu-ay-aht ḥaḥuułi (traditional territory)
When:
This fishery occurs from late-August to mid-September as returning Chinook first enter the Sarita River.
Why:
This program financially benefits citizens, as all profit from the commercial harvests is split equally amongst participating citizens. The harvest also benefits our Sarita Chinook by increasing the proportion of wild salmon genetics present in the spawning population. Over time, this will increasing the long-term survival of natural Sarita Chinook.
If you would like to participate in this fishery, here’s how:
- You must be a registered Huu-ay-aht Citizen.
- Connect with Huu-ay-aht Lands and Resources team to express your interest via email (hfnfisheries@huuayaht.org) or by calling the Huu-ay-aht office. We will put you on our list to receive updates about the program.
- Attend Huu-ay-aht Pre-season Sarita Harvest Meeting in August.
- Show up and fish with the team!
Citizen participation will include:
- Assist in setting seine nets
- Handle and move live fish
- Process and sample fish
- Carry and move gear and equipment
- Help with cleanup
This program provides citizens with waders, gloves, and any other essential gear to safely complete harvest.
Huu-ay-aht First Nations is proud to be leaders in this dynamic fish management strategy.
Follow our Huu-ay-aht social media to stay up to date on Sarita Chinook Harvest fishing opportunities.
Have Questions?
📞 Call: 250-728-3414 📧 Email: harvest@huuayaht.org