Salmon Wars – Details, episodes & analysis

Salmon Wars Executive Producer and Host Cody McLaughlin is joined by Alexus Kwachka, a 39-year veteran of catching ‘everything that swims, walks or crawls from the Russian border to Southeast Alaska’. In this episode, Cody and Alexus dive deep into this long career as a commercial fisherman, with experience with every species. gear type and fishery - from trawling around Kodiak to long lining in southeast, to trolling for salmon, and beyond. Alexus is also a veteran of the regulatory process, and served for many years on advisory committees covering the . Cody and Alexus discuss the change Alexus has seen over his career from open access fisheries in the early days “when a man could get into the halibut fishery with 50 bucks, hard work and make a living” to the privatized IFQ fisheries that we see today.  Main Topics Covered: Salmon Conservation Challenges: Alexus gives his thoughts as a commercial fisherman on what factors are contributing to the decline of salmon. Habitat Protection: Alexus calls out what he deems stream side habitat degradation along the Kenai peninsula. Magnuson-Stevens Act: Alexus discusses at length his firsthand knowledge of the history of the Magnuson-Stevens Act, and the ramifications that it has had on the fisheries of Alaska as he has seen them. Collective Action: The role of policy reforms, habitat preservation, and informed consumer choices in supporting salmon conservation. Individual Involvement: How to advocate for salmon conservation through advisory committees, contacting elected officials, and supporting organizations like Salmon State. Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mclaugh19  Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Salmon Wars Executive Producer and Host Cody McLaughlin is joined by Tim Bristol, the CEO of Salmon State. In this episode, Cody and Tim dive deep into the challenges and importance of salmon conservation in Alaska. While concerns loom over the declining Chinook salmon populations, we also celebrate the success stories of strong coho and sockeye runs in Southeast Alaska and Bristol Bay. Our conversation with Tim Bristol of Salmon State highlights the complex nature of salmon conservation, showcasing varying trends among different species and rivers. The discussion underscores the critical need for habitat protection, addressing threats from mining proposals in transboundary rivers, and the prevention of dam construction. A significant portion of our talk focuses on the management of federal waters fisheries, particularly the detrimental impact of trawling bycatch on Chinook and chum salmon. Main Topics Covered: Salmon Conservation Challenges: Declining Chinook populations and varying trends across species. Success Stories: Strong coho and sockeye salmon runs in Southeast Alaska and Bristol Bay. Habitat Protection: Addressing mining threats and preventing dam construction. Federal Waters Fisheries Management: The impact of trawling on salmon bycatch. Climate Change: Its effects on salmon populations and conservation efforts. Collective Action: The role of policy reforms, habitat preservation, and informed consumer choices in supporting salmon conservation. Individual Involvement: How to advocate for salmon conservation through advisory committees, contacting elected officials, and supporting organizations like Salmon State. Key Takeaways: Salmon conservation in Alaska is multifaceted, with different species and rivers showing varied trends. Habitat protection is essential, requiring action against mining proposals, dam constructions and seafloor destruction as a result of factory trawling. Federal waters fisheries management, especially the impacts of factory trawling, are a critical concern. Despite challenges, there are positive trends in coho and sockeye salmon populations in specific regions. Collective efforts and policy reforms are vital for the future of salmon conservation. Individuals play a crucial role by making informed choices and actively participating in conservation efforts. Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/home  Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Follow The Show On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@troutstreamstudios?_t=8nONxhNYrP8&_r=1 Find Trout Stream Studios On YouTube For Exclusive Video Content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijfUNphYKTMOU12giVt7lw Learn more about Salmon State: www.salmonstate.org  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Salmon Wars Executive Producer and Host Cody McLaughlin is joined by Laine Welch, a longtime pro-commercial fisheries reporter and advocate, retired radio host, and the blogger behind AlaskaFish.News - which covers happenings in Alaska’s fisheries all across the state, who is choosing to speak out now after a career in and around the commercial fleet (including trawl) because, in her own words, ‘she could no longer stand by’. The conversation focuses on the declining salmon populations in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest, which is a significant conservation issue. Laine and Cody discuss the cultural and economic importance of salmon to the region, as well as the various factors contributing to their decline, such as trawling, ocean warming, and competition from hatchery fish. They also highlight the lack of effective fisheries management and the influence of outside interests on Alaskan fisheries. The conversation raises concerns about the future of salmon and other fish species and the potential loss of cultural traditions and economic opportunities. The conversation explores the long-term ramifications of the decline in salmon and halibut populations in Alaska due to increased bycatch by the trawl fleet. The warming oceans and off-kilter ocean chemistry are affecting the entire food web, including species like pollock, herring, and black cod. The conversation highlights the need for better bycatch regulations and the inclusion of traditional knowledge from Alaska Native communities. Key policy decisions to protect salmon in perpetuity include setting limits on salmon removal by the trawl fleet, ending bottom trawling in sensitive areas, and reevaluating definitions and regulations related to midwater trawls. It is crucial for individuals to voice their concerns at the federal level to bring about change. Takeaways The decline of salmon populations in Alaska and the Pacific Northwest is a significant conservation issue with cultural and economic implications. Factors contributing to the decline include trawling, ocean warming, competition from hatchery fish, and ineffective fisheries management. Outside interests, particularly from Washington and Oregon, have a significant influence on Alaskan fisheries. The loss of salmon and other fish species could result in the erosion of cultural traditions and economic opportunities. There is a need for stronger conservation measures and better collaboration between stakeholders to protect salmon populations. The decline in salmon and halibut populations in Alaska due to increased bycatch by the trawl fleet has long-term ramifications for the ecosystem and the economy. The warming oceans and off-kilter ocean chemistry are affecting the entire food web, including species like pollock, herring, and black cod. Better bycatch regulations and the inclusion of traditional knowledge from Alaska Native communities are necessary to protect salmon and other species. Key policy decisions to protect salmon in perpetuity include setting limits on salmon removal by the trawl fleet, ending bottom trawling in sensitive areas, and reevaluating definitions and regulations related to midwater trawls. Individuals should voice their concerns at the federal level to bring about change and ensure the sustainability of Alaska's fisheries. Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mclaugh19  Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Learn more about Alaska Fish News: www.alaskafish.news  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Salmon Wars Executive Producer and Host Cody McLaughlin is joined by David Bayes, a halibut charter boat captain our of Homer, Alaska and one of the men behind the wildly successful ‘STOP Alaskan Trawler Bycatch’ Facebook Group that is a leading voice on the effort to reign in trawler bycatch. David, a small business owner and advocate for sustainable fishing practices, discusses the issue of trawl bycatch in Alaska and its impact on the state's fisheries. He explains how trawl bycatch, particularly of halibut and salmon, has led to significant cutbacks in the sport fishing industry and threatens the overall health of the ecosystem. David highlights the economic disparity between the trawl fleet, which generates billions of dollars in revenue but pays minimal taxes to the state, and other fishing sectors. He also emphasizes the indiscriminate nature of trawl fishing and the staggering amount of bycatch that is wasted each year. The conversation focuses on the impact of trawl fishing on salmon populations in Alaska and the need for stricter regulations. The main themes include the controversy surrounding chum salmon bycatch, the influence of the trawl fleet on fisheries management, the fear of speaking out against trawl fishing, the spread of misinformation by astroturf organizations, and potential policy solutions to mitigate the problem. Takeaways Trawl bycatch, particularly of halibut and salmon, has led to significant cutbacks in the sport fishing industry in Alaska. The trawl fleet generates billions of dollars in revenue but pays minimal taxes to the state, resulting in an economic disparity between different fishing sectors. Trawl fishing is indiscriminate and results in a staggering amount of bycatch that is wasted each year. The current management and regulations of trawl fishing prioritize economic gain over the health of the ecosystem and the sustainability of fish populations. Trawl fishing has a significant impact on salmon populations in Alaska, particularly through chum salmon bycatch. The trawl fleet has a strong influence on fisheries management, leading to loose regulations and conflicts of interest. There is a fear among fishermen and affiliated businesses of speaking out against trawl fishing due to potential repercussions. Astroturf organizations funded by the trawl industry spread misinformation and slander against those advocating for stricter regulations. Policy solutions to address the issue include setting stricter bycatch limits, increasing observer coverage, and banning bottom trawling. Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/home  Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Follow The Show On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@troutstreamstudios?_t=8nONxhNYrP8&_r=1 Find Trout Stream Studios On YouTube For Exclusive Video Content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijfUNphYKTMOU12giVt7lw Learn more about STOP Alaskan Trawler Bycatch: https://www.facebook.com/groups/181111123119023/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Salmon Wars Executive Producer and Host Cody McLaughlin is joined by AJ Hoffman, owner of Three Rivers Fly and Tackle in Wasilla, to discuss the impact of bycatch and other issues on troubled salmon runs in Alaska. They emphasize the impact on the local economy and the need to address the depleting salmon resource. The conversation covers various issues affecting salmon fishing in Alaska, including climate change, overharvesting, indiscriminate fishing methods, the warming ocean, and changing migration patterns. AJ is particularly concerned about overharvesting in the deep ocean and the use of indiscriminate fishing methods. He believes these issues require ongoing efforts to address and mitigate their impact. One theme is the impact of climate change on salmon populations, with declining populations observed across river systems. Another is the management of salmon fisheries, including overfishing and the need for sustainable practices. They also discuss the importance of international cooperation in managing salmon stocks that migrate across borders and the importance of salmon as a subsistence food source. The conversation covers two main themes: the economic impact of fishing and the subsistence side of fishing. The economic impact includes industries such as tourism and commercial fishing, while the subsistence side focuses on the reliance of native villages and working class Alaskans on fishing for food and resources. Cody highlights the role of local tackle shops in providing guidance and being stewards of the resource. The disappearance of these fish also leads to a loss of cultural engagement and connection with the resource, highlighting the importance of preserving the fish population for the cultural heritage of Alaska. Takeaways The impact of bycatch and other issues on salmon runs on not only the local economy, but the local culture. The salmon population has decreased in size and abundance due to various factors including climate change, overfishing (including bycatch), changing migratory patterns. The decline in the biomass of large king salmon has impacted the fishing industry.  Native villages in Alaska rely on fishing for subsistence, providing food and resources for their communities. Understanding the economic drivers and cultural significance of fishing in Alaska is important for managing the resource effectively. The decline in salmon runs in the Yukon River has negatively impacted the local economy Conserving the fish population is crucial for maintaining cultural engagement and connection with the resource. The disappearance of fish species like salmon and halibut has a negative impact on the cultural heritage of Alaska. Fish populations, especially salmon, have declined in America due to human activities. Conservation efforts are necessary to protect fish habitats and promote the recovery of fish populations. Individuals can play a role in advocating for change by attending meetings, writing to legislators, and expressing their concerns. There are ethical concerns surrounding the consumption of certain fish species - such as pollock. Collaboration between different types of fishermen is crucial for a healthy fishery. The South Central Alaska Sport Fishing Association is working towards fishery restoration. Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mclaugh19 Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Learn more about South Central Alaska Sportfishing Association: https://www.saksfa.org/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Salmon Wars Executive Producer and Host Cody McLaughlin is joined by Tim Bristol, Jon Warrenchuk, a fisheries biologist from Oceana, to discuss the science behind the declining salmon stocks in the Pacific Northwest. They explore the interdependence of salmon and other species in the ecosystem, the effects of overfishing and bycatch, and the challenges of managing salmon populations. They also touch on the historical decline of Chinook salmon and the impact of industrial trawling. The conversation highlights the need for conservation efforts and sustainable management practices to protect salmon and their habitats. The conversation explores the impact of trawl nets on Chinook salmon populations in Alaska and the need for better management and conservation efforts. It discusses the challenges of food security in remote areas and the importance of protecting salmon habitat. The guest suggests several policy points to address the salmon crisis, including spatial management, better monitoring of bycatch, and prioritizing the growth of wild salmon in the Bering Sea. Other factors contributing to the decline of salmon populations, such as diseases and fish farming, are also mentioned. The conversation emphasizes the value of salmon as an economic and ecological resource and encourages consumers to make informed choices and support sustainable fishing practices. Takeaways Salmon stocks in the Pacific Northwest, particularly Chinook salmon, are facing a crisis due to a range of factors including overfishing, bycatch, and habitat loss. The interdependence of salmon and other species in the ecosystem is crucial, and the decline of salmon populations can have far-reaching effects on the entire ecosystem. Conservation efforts and sustainable management practices are necessary to protect salmon and their habitats, and to ensure the long-term health of the ecosystem. The decline of Chinook (King) salmon, once known for their large size, is a result of historical mismanagement and the impacts of industrial trawling. The resilience of salmon and their ability to adapt to changing conditions offer hope for their recovery, but concerted efforts are needed to support their populations. Trawl nets have a significant impact on Chinook salmon populations in Alaska, and better management and conservation efforts are needed. Protecting salmon habitat and implementing spatial management are crucial for the survival of wild salmon. Monitoring and reducing bycatch in offshore fisheries is essential to prevent the unnecessary capture of salmon. Diseases and fish farming also contribute to the decline of salmon populations and should be addressed. Salmon have both economic and ecological value, and consumers can make a difference by supporting sustainable fishing practices and asking questions about the source of their seafood. Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/home  Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Follow The Show On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@troutstreamstudios?_t=8nONxhNYrP8&_r=1 Find Trout Stream Studios On YouTube For Exclusive Video Content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijfUNphYKTMOU12giVt7lw Learn more about Oceana: https://oceana.org/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Salmon Wars host Cody McLaughlin is joined by David Bayes, the Bains behind the truly ‘David and Goliath’ effort that is the ‘Alaskan Sop Trawler Bycatch’ Facebook Group, which boasts 36,000 members and growing from across the nation - who in his private life is a former biology teacher and longtime charter fleet captain and sport fishing advocate for this NEW TRAILER DROP for the upcoming Salmon Wars podcast! David breaks down where EXACTLY the millions of pounds of harvested pollock go, addresses the talking point that pollock is ‘sustainable and feeds the nation’ and reveals the SHOCKING TRUTH of what the numbers say about sacrificing salmon to buy back our own fish from China.  Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/home  Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Follow The Show On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@troutstreamstudios?_t=8nONxhNYrP8&_r=1 Find Trout Stream Studios On YouTube For Exclusive Video Content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijfUNphYKTMOU12giVt7lw Learn more about STOP Alaskan Trawler Bycatch: https://www.facebook.com/groups/181111123119023/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NEW TRAILER DROP >>  Salmon Wars host Cody McLaughlin is joined by Laine Welch, a longtime pro-commercial fisheries reporter and advocate, retired radio host, and the blogger behind AlaskaFish.News for this NEW TRAILER DROP for the upcoming Salmon Wars podcast! Laine spends significant time sharing her perspectives on bycatch, hatcheries and climate change and how those factors are affecting Salmon runs across the Pacific Northwest and Alaska - gleaned from a career spent providing in-depth coverage of Alaska's fisheries.  Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/home  Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Follow The Show On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@troutstreamstudios?_t=8nONxhNYrP8&_r=1 Find Trout Stream Studios On YouTube For Exclusive Video Content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijfUNphYKTMOU12giVt7lw Learn more about Alaska Fish News: www.alaskafish.news Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We talk a lot about bycatch in the series. Ever wondered what happens to fish caught as bycatch in a trawl net? Do they get sent to restaurants? Fed to the homeless and food insecure of Alaska? Shoveled over the side like trash? The answer may surprise you in this sneak peak from the upcoming Salmon Wars podcast series.  Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/home  Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Follow The Show On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@troutstreamstudios?_t=8nONxhNYrP8&_r=1 Find Trout Stream Studios On YouTube For Exclusive Video Content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijfUNphYKTMOU12giVt7lw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Welcome to 'Salmon Wars,' a compelling podcast hosted by Cody McLaughlin, an avid salmon fisherman in Alaska's Last Frontier. Join us as we investigate the critical issue of declining salmon returns in the Pacific Northwest. Our expert interviews with biologists, fishermen, advocates, native leaders, politicians, and stakeholders delve into the pressing challenges facing salmon conservation today. Discover the driving forces behind the decline in salmon populations and explore actionable solutions to protect these iconic fish. Whether you're a conservation enthusiast, a biologist, or someone passionate about preserving our natural ecosystems, this limited-run series offers invaluable insights into the urgent need for salmon conservation. Subscribe now to 'Salmon Wars' and join us in the fight to save these vital fish species and the ecosystems they sustain. Together, we can make a difference in the future of salmon conservation." Learn more about Trout Stream Studios: https://www.troutstreamstudios.com  Get to know your host on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mclaugh1985/  Follow the host on Twitter: https://twitter.com/home  Follow Trout Stream Studios on LinkedIn and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trout-stream-studios  Follow Trout Stream Studios on Facebook and get special bonus content, more trailers, and additional shows: https://www.facebook.com/troutstreamstudios  Follow The Show On TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@troutstreamstudios?_t=8nONxhNYrP8&_r=1 Find Trout Stream Studios On YouTube For Exclusive Video Content: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCijfUNphYKTMOU12giVt7lw Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices