HB 281 is introduced by the request of a broad-based group of fishers, including the guided sport fishing industry, who have long advocated for a proactive approach to achieve long-term stability in the industry. An expression of this desire was also articulated in 2000 when the Board of Fish passed a resolution supporting a limitation program on charter operations. The resolution came by request of the charter industry itself.

Two years later, 2002, a task force was formed by the Board of Fish to look at the SE Alaska King Salmon Management Plan. This group, comprised of charter industry and sport fishing advocates, also recommended a moratorium on charter vessels in SE Alaska.

The 2003, ADF&G King Salmon report for SE Alaska shows that the number of licensed vessels and actual operators, as indicated by logbook activity, has stabilized over the last few years. This indicates that now is the time for a moratorium as the industry is relatively stable rather than in times of extreme growth or decline.

A vessel license moratorium for the sport fish charter fisher that does not limit entry into the fisheries by persons may be held to be constitutional and a valid exercise of legislative power under art. VIII, sec. 2 of the Constitution of the State of Alaska to provide for utilization, development, and conservation of natural resources belonging to the state.

Released: April 25, 2003

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