270 U. S. BUREAU OF FISHERIES 
release troll-caught saimon in the Baranof Island region of southeast 
Alaska in 1926. As a result, 448 salmon, of which 360 were cohos 
and 88 kings, not seriously injured when caught, were tagged and 
released. 
Complete returns on recaptures have not been received, but a 
separate report on the work will be published. 
SALMON LIFE-HISTORY STUDIES 
Important studies of the life history of the Pacific salmons, partic- 
ularly the red salmon, were continued in Alaska in 1926 by Dr. C. 
H. Gilbert, of Stanford University, Calif., and Dr. Willis H. Rich, 
chief investigator of salmon fisheries, assisted by Seymour P. Smith. 
This work was conducted chiefly in the Karluk region. It included a 
thorough survey of Karluk Lake and the marking of approximately 
47,000 young red salmon migrating from Karluk Lake to the sea. 
Extensive collections of scales of salmon were made in various parts: 
of Alaska for scientific study in relation to life-history problems. 
These activities are covered fully in another publication. 
OBSERVATIONS ON THE ESCAPEMENT OF SALMON 
The act of June 6, 1924, states that it is the intent and policy of 
Congress that in all waters of Alaska in which salmon run there 
shall be an escapement of not less than 50 per cent thereof. Accord- 
ingly, in various parts of Alaska observations were made during the 
progress and at the conclusion of salmon runs of 1926 to secure 
information as to the escapement to the spawning grounds. 
Generally speaking, surveys showed that satisfactory numbers of 
salmon ascended the streams for breeding purposes, although there 
were occasional exceptions, including more particularly the Copper 
River. Some changes in the regulations regarding fishing opera- 
tions were made during the season to insure adequate escapements to 
the spawning g@ rounds. 
Southeastern Alaska.—Reports indicate a good escapement of red 
salmon in the Icy Strait region and other parts of the northern por- 
tion of southeastern Alaska. In general, the escapement throughout 
the Wrangell district was less ipa in the previous year. This was 
especially ‘true in certain sections, notably along the Cleveland Penin- 
sula shore from Lemesurier Point through Union Bay, Ernest Sound, 
Bradford Canal, Eastern Passage, Zimovia Strait, and along the 
Etolin Island shore from Abraham Island to Chicagof Pass. Poor 
catches were made in these waters, and spawning streams examined 
from time to time showed a lhght escapement. 
Other areas showed marked improvement over 1925, particularly 
Kah Sheets Bay, where an excellent red-salmon escapement 
occurred. In fact, fishermen reported this the heaviest run for the 
last 12 seasons. Sarkar Cove showed up well in respect to both 
reds and cohos. Conditions in Barrie Creek were good, all species: 
being on a par with 1925. There was a large escapement of hump- 
backs in Petersburg Creek. From Point Baker to Point Colpoys,, 
and through Snow Pass, Kashevarof Strait, and along the east 
coast of Prince of Wales Island in Clarence Strait, the escapement 
generally was good. Along the central and southern shores on. 
eee 
