The 2009-2010 harvest seasons for Alaska's two largest crab fisheries opened on October 15th and this season's harvest limits have been announced by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game (ADF&G).

The Alaska Bristol Bay red king crab harvest is set at 16 million pounds. This represents a drop from last year's harvest, yet is above the 10-year average. Alaska king crab is the largest and most impressive of all shellfish, prized for its sweet flavor and rich tender white body meat.

The Alaska Bering Sea snow crab harvest is set at 48 million pounds. This is a reduction from last year but is also in line with the 10-year average. Alaska snow crab has been the largest volume shellfish fishery in Alaska since the 1980s. With its widespread consumer appeal, it is recognized as one of today's best shellfish values.

The harvest levels point to Alaska's ongoing practice of managing all of its fisheries to ensure their long-term health and sustainability. State and federal fisheries managers continually adjust harvest limits based on the most current available scientific data. This is one key element within Alaska's model of sustainability.

The history of crab fisheries in Alaska waters extends back to 1930. The harvest season for Alaska king crab typically ranges from October through November and again from January through March. Alaska snow crab is usually harvested from October through mid-February.

Sources: SeafoodSource.com, October 1, 2009;
Seafoodnews.com, November 2, 2009;
Alaska Department of Fish & Game (ADF&G)

Alaska Halibut and Black Cod Season Wrap Up

The Alaska halibut and black cod season came to a close at the end of November, with catch reports indicating a strong season for both fisheries. The halibut catch totaled 44 million pounds, while the black cod catch totaled 24 million pounds.

Both the Alaska halibut and black cod fisheries opened on March 21st. The Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for Alaska halibut was set at 45.5 million pounds, and the TAC for Alaska black cod was set at 26.48 million pounds.

Alaska boasts one of the largest populations of wild halibut and black cod in the world. Alaska black cod (also known as sablefish), is revered by chefs and consumers for its high omega-3 fatty acid content and rich, luxurious flavor and texture. Alaska halibut is known for its hearty texture and mild, sweet flavor.

Source: NOAA, IFQ and CDQ Allocations and Landings data, December 8, 2009