The Pacific Fisheries Management Council has proposed several options that include a shorter season and rotating closures, in order to protect Klamath fish.

According to an American Sportfishing Association memo released on Thursday afternoon, members of a California and Oregon congressional delegation met this week with the Departments of Interior and Commerce. In that meeting, the National Marine Fisheries Service ominously maintained its intention to close the season for 2006 regardless of what the PFMC advises in its April meeting.

The California Department of Fish and Game is trying to salvage a fraction of the season, announcing that salmon fishing will open Saturday as usual, in state waters within three miles of shore.

Federal waters beyond three miles will remain closed under a temporary ruling, and even the DFG's bulletin states: "Season closure date to be determined pending Fish and Game Commission and Pacific Fishery Management Council ruling in April."

Klamath River salmon numbers are extremely low, due to water diversions and a fish die-off in 2002. While out in the open ocean, the Klamath fish cannot be distinguished from other runs.

Several petitions on the issue have been circulating in the north valley, with Pat Ebright at Chico Sportsmen's Den reporting: "We received over 200 signatures on a petition circulated by the Humboldt Fisherman's Marketing Association in Eureka. Many local anglers are very upset."

The PFMC meeting will take place from Sunday to April 7 at the Doubletree Hotel in Sacramento, 2001 Point West Way. The public is invited to comment in writing or in person. The council's Web site at www.pcouncil.org contains a complete agenda and schedule.