| Remarks |
The Haida used both migrating chinook found in tidal waters and alocal stock on the Yakoun River. Haida use of chinook prior to development of the commercial fishery at the turn of the century is not well documented. Trolling by other northern Indian groups, involved moving a baited hook of wood, bone and twine through the water so as to lure a salmon to strike. Archaelogical excavations at Kiusta in Haida Gwaii resulted in finds of bone barbs likely used for fish hooks and salmon vertebrae up to 18 mm in diameter, corresponding to chinook salmon 30-40 lbs in midden deposits dated 4,380-10,435 years ago. The Haida expression, 'chinook salmon come and hit my heart', originates from the Haida creation stories where the raven lures a chinook salmon into his canoe. Another Haida story described a fisher who catches and sells a large quantity of chinook salmon for a feast. Among the Tsimshian and like also the Haida, fresh chinook was considered 'rich food' which was essential for maintaining the dignity of the family by possession and distribution of potlatches. Chinook salmon were used fresh and halt-smoked; heads and eggs were cooked by boiling; fillets were sun-dried or lightly smoked and used soon afterwards because of high fat content limiting shelf life; the Haida were one of the first to become involved in the commercial troll fishery for chinook that began in the late 1800s. |