The Salmon Hearse - Dean Nichols

About Us

photograph submitted by Dean Nichols

The Chitina Dipnetters Association (CDA) is a non-profit organization based in Fairbanks, Alaska, but serving dipnetters statewide, that represents the interests of the personal use dipnet fishers on the Copper River at Chitina. The association was formed in 1974.

The CDA works to promote and protect the rights of dipnet fishers, who use large nets to scoop out salmon as they journey upstream. The association advocates for continued access to the fishery, reasonable regulations and a fair allotment of the returning salmon resource. They work closely with the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, the Department of Transportation, Board of Fisheries, and the legislature to meet its goals.

The association is funded by annual membership dues and donations. A board of directors, elected by its members, manages and performs most of the association's work.

The Chitina Dipnetters Association plays an important role in preserving the tradition of dipnet fishing for Alaskan residents on the Copper River.