The total allowable incidental commercial catch of halibut allocated to the Area 2A salmon troll fishery is 44,554 pounds. Preliminary catch estimates of 43,211 pounds and projections through July 29 indicate that the catch limit will be reached. Therefore, the incidental halibut fishery during the salmon troll season north of Florence, Oregon will close at 11:59 p.m. on July 28, 2004. The incidental halibut fishery during the salmon troll season south of Florence will close at 11:59 p.m. on July 29, 2004.

For further information, call the NMFS hotline at 1-800-662-9825, then press "5" for the halibut fisheries.