AK HB162

Establishes a fisheries rehabilitation permit system allowing qualified persons (state residents or state-organized corporations) to collect anadromous or freshwater fish, fertilize eggs, and place eggs, larvae, or unfed fry back in state waters, with a $100 application fee.

Permit applicants must submit detailed management plans including project feasibility, stakeholder communication documentation, species and numbers of fish to be taken, genetics management plans, and performance measures; commissioners must approve or reject applications within 90 days of completion notification.

Permits are issued only if projects may restore or increase fish populations in waters where escapement goals are unmet or populations are limited, will result in public benefits, will not harm wild fish stocks, and will not introduce nonindigenous fish species.

Single permits are limited to 500,000 eggs for fertilization, valid for five years, and may be extended; permittees must provide requested data and reasonably communicate with affected persons and stakeholders.

Requires comprehensive regional salmon plans to include provisions for salmon rehabilitation projects conducted under this permit system alongside existing public and private nonprofit hatchery operations.