Why did Columbia River salmon canneries become important to world markets?

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Columbia River Columbia River Gorge, Oregon-Washington border.

The Columbia River salmon industry became a significant force in world markets due to the immense abundance of salmon in the river, which was noted by early explorers.1

Following the opening of the first cannery in 1866, the industry expanded rapidly. By 1881, approximately 30 canneries were operating along the river, utilizing nets, traps, and wheels to harvest the fish. These facilities successfully supplied global demand, with Great Britain serving as a primary market for the canned product.1