A Kasilof bait restriction was modified via an emergency order by the State Department of Fish and Game on Tuesday, and the use of bait will be prohibited on the river until May 16. A previous order allowed bait use on May 1.

The emergency order calls for a bag and possession limit for Kasilof River early-run king salmon, 20 inches or greater, of two hatchery-produced fish. Hatchery kings are identified by an adipose fin scar, while natural kings — which may not be removed from the water — have intact adipose fins.

The new order adds a restriction on the use of bait, which it says may only be used beginning on May 16, and only on a single hook or single-hook, artificial lure.

A similar order issued in March also targets the Kasilof River’s early run of king salmon. That order prohibited the retention of natural kings and the use of multiple hooks but allowed bait to be used as soon as May 1.

“Allowing bait May 1 would increase mortality of early-run king salmon and steelhead returning to the Kasilof River in early May,” the order reads. “This emergency order changes the date bait is allowed back to Thursday, May 16 as described in regulation.”

The full text of the order, as well as other up-to-date information about fishing regulations, can be found at adfg.alaska.gov.

Reach reporter Jake Dye at jacob.dye@peninsulaclarion.com.