Few salmon spotted on Deshka River

WASILLA, Alaska, June 13 (UPI) -- Alaska fish and game officials said fishing restrictions may be needed on the Deshka River because of low numbers of king salmon.

Biologists said they aren't sure if cool weather just has the fish running behind schedule or if the runs are below average. Only 221 king salmon have been counted passing through the Deshka weir, compared with an average of 6,000 by this time most years, the Anchorage (Alaska) Daily News reported Thursday.

A state fisheries biologist has recommended banning the use of bait, which would put a damper on tourism. The newspaper said tens of thousands of anglers flock to the Deshka each year.