“A Tidal Wave of Salmon” — Reflections from Captain Steve and Crew
Each August at Wild for Salmon, the tides shift — the smokehouse hums, freezers fill, and our Captain comes home. After weeks on the water and 75 million wild sockeye salmon making their way through Bristol Bay, Captain Steve Kurian and his crew have returned from Alaska to Bloomsburg, Pennsylvania.
Now begins the next chapter — unpacking nets, cleaning gear, and preparing this season’s incredible catch for distribution across the U.S., just in time for Fishtival. But first, we continue our annual tradition: sitting down with Captain Steve for one last reflection on what he calls “the most unforgettable run yet.”
Another Record-Breaking Bristol Bay Sockeye Season
“They never stopped coming. It was like a tidal wave of salmon.” — Captain Steve
For the second year in a row, Bristol Bay shattered records. More than 75 million sockeye salmon returned — the largest run ever documented.
In recent years, the Bay has seen nothing short of abundance, with runs consistently above 50 million fish. Last season’s 65 million broke all prior records — until now. Thanks to world-class fishery management, tight regulation, and the dedication of fishermen and biologists alike, 2022 set a new standard for what sustainable, thriving fisheries can achieve.
“I can’t say enough about the people behind this fishery,” Steve said. “From the biologists to the deckhands — it’s a privilege to be part of something that works this well.”
A “Slow but Steady” Season for the F/V Ava Jane 
Captain Steve and the Ava Jane began the season in the Nushagak District — where half the run was forecasted to appear. Early excitement gave way to steadier, smaller catches as the fish spread out across the Bay.
Still, the fleet was moving massive numbers. On June 30th, local radio station KDLG reported the highest single-day harvest ever — over 2.46 million fish in 24 hours.
By July 9th, Steve and his crew made a bold call to transfer districts, heading for Naknek/Kvichak. Though the move meant a mandatory two-day pause, it proved worth it: the next eight days brought strong catches and long nights — the kind of steady, satisfying season every fisherman hopes for.
“It was a marathon, not a sprint,” Steve said. “But we kept pace with the fish — and that’s what matters.”
Highlights, Challenges, and a Crew to Remember 
When asked about the best part of 2022, Steve didn’t hesitate:
“Having one of the best crews I’ve ever had — knee-deep in salmon most days, and still smiling.”
From deckhands Dylan and Taylor, who embraced the chaos with laughter, to returning East Coast crew members Matt and Jake, the energy was infectious. Fourth of July celebrations, late-night repairs, and mid-season pranks kept spirits high even when the wind howled.
Of course, no season is without hardship. Midway through, Matt was forced home with a tooth infection. His spot was filled by Bryce, a team member from Steve’s tree care business back in Pennsylvania. It didn’t take long for Bryce to realize that land and sea are very different worlds — especially when facing 45 mph gales and eight-foot swells.
“Those winds will humble you,” Steve laughed. “But he hung in there.”
Fishing Through the Storms
This season tested every ounce of endurance the crew had.
At one point, the Ava Jane fished nearly 69 hours straight — as biologists opened an extended harvest window, confident in the record returns.
When winds reached dangerous speeds, the crew hunkered down, riding out the waves, keeping each other fed and focused. Between the storms, the rhythm of Bristol Bay carried on — fish, eat, sleep, repeat.
Protecting Bristol Bay, Fisherman-Style
Even in a season full of abundance, one cause united every boat on the water: protecting Bristol Bay from the Pebble Mine Project.
“It really strengthened the need to keep Bristol Bay protected for the long haul,” Steve reflected.
Everywhere you looked — from No Pebble flags flying on the rigs to Pride of Bristol Bay hoodies worn by crew and cannery workers — the message was clear: the fishery’s success depends on keeping its waters clean.
Through our partners at Trout Unlimited Alaska, fishermen and seafood lovers alike submitted comments urging the EPA to preserve Bristol Bay’s pristine ecosystem. It’s a fight we’ll keep showing up for — every season, every run.
A Family Finale in Alaska
As the season drew to a close, the Kurian family turned the Ava Jane into something even more special — a family boat.
“It’s always been a dream to have everyone on board together,” Steve said.
Jenn flew to Alaska with their children, Ava and Tommy, for the final week. The 108-square-foot cabin was tight quarters for a family of four, but pure joy filled the deck. Jenn returned to picking fish after a decade away — and instantly out-fished half the crew.
“She showed them how it’s done,” Steve laughed.
The family ended their stay with a visit to Katmai National Park & Brooks Falls, a bit of sport fishing, and nightly soccer games in the boatyard.
Home Again — and Ready for a Salmon-Filled Fall
Back in Pennsylvania, the Kurians are enjoying farm life again — dogs, chickens, horses, and fresh tomatoes. Steve’s trading nets for a longbow as hunting season approaches, but his mind remains on the sea.
“I’m just grateful,” he said. “Grateful for the crew, for the fish, and for everyone waiting back home for wild salmon.”
As the team gears up to distribute this record-breaking catch, you can preorder your 2022 Wild Alaska Sockeye Salmon for delivery straight to your door — or pick up locally through our Fall Buying Clubs.
Shipping begins September 12th, and club orders close August 31st.
Find your club location and reserve your share of the 2022 harvest — from our boat to your plate.
