Kachemak Bay, Alaska: An Exploration of People and Place
Where are We?
Who are We?
What are the Dynamic Forces that Shape Our Place?
How Have We Survived?
Subsistence Hunting
Commuter Crows
Fishing
What are the Challenges of Living Here?
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Gillnetters

Crab Boats Gillnetters Longliners Purse Seiners Trollers

What type of fishing vessel is it?
Gillnetters set curtain-like nets near the water's surface to intercept salmon as they migrate along coasts to their natal streams. Gillnetters, usually 30-40 feet in length, are recognized by the horizontal roller onboard and small two-man cabin.

How does the gear work?
Fish are picked from the gillnet on the bow (bowpicker) or stern (sternpicker). The net is stowed in the net bin amidships (seen here) or wound on a large powered net reel.

Spawning male sockeye or red salmon
Male Sockeye or Red Salmon

Spawning male chum or dogfish salmon
Male Chum or Dog Salmon

Spawning male coho or silver salmon
Male Coho or Silver Salmon

Gillnetter with shallow curtain like nets
Deployed Gillnetter
Alaska Department of Fish and Game
Sternpicker gillnetter boat
F/V Sea Spray, Sternpicker
Model by Don Ronda
Photo by Scott Dickerson

What does it catch?
Gillnetters fish for salmon (primarily sockeye, coho and chum) and herring.

Where does the catch end up?
Salmon are usually iced or delivered fresh to tenders or canneries.

 

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