BBRSDA & Bristol Bay processors have received some guidance on the 32' enforcement issue from Alaska Wildlife Troopers (AWT). Please see the AWT letter linked below.

Additionally, AWT has said that infractions for the purpose of operational performance, as opposed to product quality or safety, will be a bigger priority for 32' enforcement in the upcoming season. It appears that the Board of Fish will not be taking up the issue at its meetings prior to the 2023 season, so for now the regulations are what they are.

Penalties for violating the 32' regulations are spelled out in Alaska Statutes AS 16.06.722 and AS 16.05.723. Additionally, gear violations, which includes vessel length violations, can result in demerit points through the CFEC system.

As the letter states, if fishermen have any questions, they are encouraged to contact to call the Alaska Wildlife Trooper Post in King Salmon at 907-246-3307, Dillingham at 907-842-5351, Kodiak at 907-486-4762 or Captain Aaron Frenzel at 907-334-2501.

LINK: Alaska Wildlife Troopers Letter to Bristol Bay Drift Gillnet Permit Holders