DFO Draft Policy on Bycatch

There is a Draft Policy on Bycatch coming from DFO. It can be seen here.
Our response is copied below.
Feedback is accepted until Feb.29 at Consultations@DFO-MPO.GC.CA


DFO Discussions
Fisheries & Oceans Canada
13th Floor North
200 Kent Street, Mail Station 13N159
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0E6

RE: Draft Policy Framework on Managing Bycatch and Discards

The North Coast Steelhead Alliance is a group committed to securing the escapement of wild steelhead in sufficient numbers to sustain healthy wild steelhead stocks and a robust sport fishery in northwestern British Columbia. The NCSA is dedicated to working with all levels of government, industry, community and stakeholder groups to preserve Skeena steelhead.

Our submission today will focus on the issue of interception of Skeena steelhead by commercial fisheries and how it relates to the Draft Policy on Managing Bycatch and Discards.

By far the biggest problem we have this document is the overarching consideration that commercial fisheries that inflict these bycatch/discard damages take precedence over and above everything else. This document is on fishery bycatch and discards, written by the Department of Fisheries, whose role is to facilitate commercial fishing activity. It seems zero consideration has been given to not sanctioning the fisheries in the first place if impacts are too negative or the impacts outweigh the benefits. It appears commercial activity clearly dominates and actually skews the Department's consideration of what is the best use of fisheries resources for Canadian society, when in many cases this is just not true anymore, such as with Skeena steelhead.

Moreover, while Conservation is supposed to be the prime management directive, the Department completely misinterprets one key definition of conservation: that being 'not to waste'. In the Skeena example, this equates to the Department allowing and even facilitating the killing of large percentages of the yearly returns of very valuable Skeena summer run steelhead in order to allow barely viable gillnet fisheries to occur. This is a form of social welfare, not fishery management, carried out on the backs of both Skeena steelhead themselves and the upriver sportfishery tourism industry that relies on them.

Skeena steelhead are worth literally thousands of dollar each to the in-river sportfishing tourism industry that has grown over the last 30 years to out-contribute the commercial fishery in gross income to the overall economy of the region. (* Blewitt; 2008 Economic Dimensions of the Skeena Watershed Salmonid Fisheries).

Why are we as a society allowing completely non-selective gillnet fisheries, those that have no hope of minimising or ameliorating their impacts on bycatch, to continue to inflict such negative impacts on a species and a successful, green industry that relies on them?

How does your Draft Policy answer those types of questions and concerns? The following passage from the 'Guiding Principles' section is one of few to mention socio-economic benefits and relative contributions the resource makes to Canadian society, yet we submit this is sheer lip service to any other use other than commercial fishing exploitation. We come to this belief from decades of seeing and experiencing the results of commercial fishing bycatch on our valuable steelhead. Consistently, Skeena steelhead come out on the bottom of management decisions regarding commercial fisheries and we see no reason for any of that to change within this new Draft Policy.

The fishery is a common property resource to be managed for the benefit of all Canadians, consistent with conservation objectives, the constitutional protection afforded Aboriginal and treaty rights, and the relative contributions that various uses of the resource make to Canadian society, including socio-economic benefits to communities.

Year after year, we see the Department make the value judgement that allowing non-selective gillnet fisheries, which kill thousands of valuable Skeena steelhead, is an acceptable trade-off. Even when confronted with hard economic data from truly independent sources which clearly state the economic disparity between the two activities, the Department blatantly ignores the information, the impacts, and allows the bycatch killing to continue. Where in this Draft Policy is any verbiage to suggest this attitude from the Department will change?

Where in your Draft Policy is there verbiage which allows a fulsome discussion of the cost-benefit considerations of allowing various fisheries? Where is the Policy to guide Managers on reaching socio-economic decisions where commercial fishing is not the best use of the public's fishery resources?

The Department's history of trying to manage the bycatch/discard issue of non-selective gillnetting by dressing up gillnets in short length forms, short set lengths, mesh size configurations, and on and on ad nuaseum are truly pathetic attempts to keep an outdated and outmoded method of fish capture alive at the great expense of valuable steelhead and sportfishery businesses that rely on them.

We dont beleive new policy papers like this one will deal with the core issues of Skeena steelhead bycatch. The root causes are the systemic, built-in bias of a bureaucratic department whose sole function it seems is to facilitate commercial fishing at any cost. Add to that industry bias, a geographic bias of basing the Department's office in the chronically depressed town that relies heavily on commercial fishing and shoreworker jobs and you have a recipe that no new Policy will overcome with regard to fairly managing the Skeena steelhead issue.

We have just learned this Draft Policy available on-line, with feedback and comments invited until the end of February, has actually already been re-written and accepted. This just typifies the Department's approach to new Policy; first, the Policy itself is completely lacking, and second, your Department had already written the real final document without considering any public input.

And finally, we would sum up this Draft Policy as just one more in a long line of Departmental verbiage that will be ignored by Managers on the north coast as they continue to do whatever they want in terms of allowing non-selective fisheries to continue. This Bycatch Policy will join the Wild Salmon Policy; the Selective Fishing Policy, and dozens of other DFO policies that sit on shelves completely ignored by north coast fishery managers. We wonder how much public funding was wasted in this paper process exercise when very little, if any, benefit to Skeena steelhead will reach the water?

Yours

Keith Douglas
Chairperson
North Coast Steelhead Alliance
Smithers, BC
http://www.ncsteelheadalliance.ca

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Joint News Release

We are pleased to announce our participation in a joint news release with the Steelhead Society of BC and the BC Federation of Fly Fishers.
In the release the groups are critical of DFO for poor management with regard to steelhead bycatch and discards in the commercial fisheries of BC.
Here is a link from the BCFFF page:

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Latest Fishing Report from Oscar's to September 1st

Steve Hidber with a nice steelie caught recently.
Latest Fishing Report from Oscar's

Enjoy your long weekend! Go fishing!
Fishing report for September 1st.

Bulkley River

The entire Bulkley is in good shape. The water level is still fairly high for this time of year however. Let's hope for a drier fall. Pinks and Coho are being caught in the Bulkley. Use jigs, spinners or spoons for Coho. Blue, green and silver are the top colours. Colorado blades are also working. Fishing for Coho seems to be best in the lower parts of the Bulkley. Fish for them early in the morning for best success. A few Steelheads caught this week as well. Some on dry flies.... Way to go Lane....

Kispiox River

The Kispiox is high. It should come down unless we get hit with more of the wet stuff... Coho are in... Steelhead should not be far off...

Skeena River

The Skeena River is in good shape but still on the high side. Steelhead fishing is good on the lower Skeena.

Morice River

The Morice is in very good shape. Steelhead being caught in the lower parts of the river.

Babine River

The Sockeye fishery on the Babine River is now closed (no more retention). The water is still fairly high. Steelhead season is fast approaching on the Babine.

Babine Lake

Babine Lake is still producing lots of fish. The limit has been increased to 4 fish on the lake. Please see notice in the news and events section of our website! (osv

If you are going to the ocean please read the halibut notice on our news and events section!

NOTE:

Don’t forget that it is September 1st, and on most rivers you will now need your classified waters stamp and regardless if you are targeting them or not; your steelhead stamp.

Check your regulations book to be sure you have the correct licence!

A beautiful steelhead caught on the Babine River using a dry line. Nice job Steve!

1214 Main Street
Box 550
Smithers BC
V0J 2N0
Phone:(250)847-2136
Fax:(250)847-3679
www.oscarssports.com
info@oscarssports.com

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NCSA Letter to DFO Area Director

Here is an email we sent to DFO Area Director earlier this morning....And lo and behold just minutes ago a Fishery Notice came out announcing another Skeena gillnet opening....with any selective measures noticeably absent

Hello Mel,
I see the Tyee sockeye numbers have improved again and with this the Department is probably thinking of sanctioning more commercial openings in Area 4. At the same time we note steelhead numbers are tracking below the ten year average with no outlook of sudden improvement.

When is the Department going to consider steelhead in the management of these commercial openings? Why are no selective measures such as the short set/short net technique mandated on the gillnetters?

Waiting for a 'conservation concern' prior to implementing selective measures seems a bit unfair to the sportfishing sector. Where is the precautionary approach? Again, the Department's double standard is showing: you arbitrarily dictate the success of the steelhead sportfishing season while actively working with industry to maximize their opportunity. We thought the two activities were supposed to be managed equally in your management hierarchy?

Note, in the attached graph the poor Skeena steelhead returns so far in 2011. Please amend any commercial openings to take this reduced return into consideration.
Thank you very much.

Keith Douglas
Chairperson
North Coast Steelhead Alliance
Smithers, BC

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Early Tyee Steelhead graph

Here is a quick graph showing the very early Tyee steelhead index to to July 4th. Looks to be tracking similar to 2010.

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Interesting article on DFO and fishing rights in Canada

Article: DFO & Fishing 'Rights'

Interesting article relating an exchange in the Cohen Commission proceedings between a DFO staff person and lawyers for the BC Driftfishers and BC Wildlife Federation.
In his testimony, Barry Huber, a senior Aboriginal Advisor with DFO, admitted that he "...believes non-native Canadians don't have a right to fish recreationally, but rather a privilege, and that he takes that attitude into negotiating rooms where he works with First Nations leaders."
The gist of the article from Christie Blatchford seems to be "...that the very fellow charged with negotiating new fishery deals with First Nations on behalf of all Canadians — on the "government-to-government" or "nation-to-nation" basis increasingly demanded by native leaders — is arguably prepared to give away the store because he doesn't believe non-natives have a leg to stand on."

The exchange outlined in Blatchford's article is a very interesting glimpse into DFO perspectives on fishery negotiations with First Nations. It also raises questions about whether this is official DFO Policy or whether this fellow is following his narrow interpretation of orders from above? Either way, the article reflects badly on DFO, who is shown to yet again be a poor manager of our fish resources and reinforces the call for a complete overhaul of this bureaucratic dinosaur.

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Latest Sportfishery Update from Oscar's Sports

Here is the latest sportfishery update from Bob at Oscar's Source for Sports in Smithers.

The Promise of Steelhead

Just glancing over the Tyee Index for Steelhead, and must say the numbers look encouraging. The 1998-2002 seasons were the glory years, and those of you fishing then probably have many fond memories of that period. The numbers this year show the closest to those wonderful times over the last ten years.

Of course, a lot of things can happen, and often do when it comes to fishing. But by nature anglers are more glass half full than glass half empty people and time on the river is really never wasted. As Roderick Haig-Brown so wisely said "If fishing is just an excuse to be close to rivers, I'm glad I thought of it." So, if the numbers look good, we think it is going to be good, and we always go out there optimistically.

Steelhead are now being taken in the Skeena system. Most of the Steelhead have been taken as incidental catches from those anglers targeting the Sockeye. However, from the first of August, Steelhead fanatics start to concentrate on their passion. Upriver on the Skeena, Steelhead can be caught by mid month. These first fish can be particularly predisposed to the dry fly and many anglers will only fish for them with the dry. It is heart stopping looking downstream and seeing that white mouth come up and inhale your waking fly.

Tyee Coho Index

Coho numbers according to the Tyee Index are close to the ten year average. Fisheries predictions were for a good or better season than 2009 and early catches down the Douglas Channel and out of Rupert seem to bear that out. We have had some great catches reported from both locations and it is still early in the season.

Coho in the saltchuck can be taken on a wide variety of tackle. Anchovies in the Krippled holders are always a favourite. However, many times blue or green hoochies or needlefish can outfish the bait and you don't have to worry about your baits condition or whether it is still there. Apex work well for Coho and at times they can't leave the Coyote type spoons alone. It is wise to have an assortment of all the above lures in the right colours. Check at the marina or your speciality tackle shop for recommendations on what is working.

Coho are now in the Kitimat and coming into the Skeena. Spin-N-Glos, jigs, Gibbs Koho spoons, Vibrax and Mepps Spinners. Pixee Spoons are proven Coho catchers. More Coho are entering the rivers daily, building towards the end of the month around Terrace and in the Kitimat.

Sockeye Circus

Although the Sockeye run this year is not a big run at least there were enough for an opening allowing for an acceptable escapement. The Sockeye bring out a lot of anglers around Terrace. The fish here are very fresh bright fish and great fighters. Most anglers use red, pink or chartreuse flies bounced along the bottom or fly fish with an appropriate sink tip line. Up on the Babine fish can be going through the colour change. The Babine River is fly fishing only meaning a proper fly rod, reel and line. Sink tips in the 8-11 feet per second range are recommended. On Babine Lake anglers generally use a red Gamakatsu #1 Octopus hook with green or red beads behind a red or green flasher. The fish have been running at 25-45 feet deep but your depthfinder will tell you what depth they prefer that day. You can use barbed hooks in the lake but our streams of course are barbless.

Fishing Report

Kitimat River

Springs are now closed on the Kitimat. Chums are open and although it is not a big year for Chums they are a great fighting fish and well worth the effort. Pinks are still closed on the Kitimat unfortunately as they are a very popular and co-operative target. Please take care with releasing these pinks so they can spawn and hopefully rebuild to those huge runs we were used to. More Coho showing up and early indicators point to good returns.

Douglas Channel

Some great catches on Coho down the channel and now a few being taken in the harbour. Looks like a good return as predicted. Halibut reports improving as the runs come in.

Prince Rupert

Again, like the Douglas Channel some really good reports for the Coho fishery. Love it when the Coho are jumping in every direction and they are taking whatever you want to give them. Good Halibut fishing with bait or jigs.

Terrace area

Weather has been very warm and the Skeena dirtied up from the Copper. Some summer run Steelhead showing up. Sockeye a little slow with the murky water but that will improve. Coho now showing up around Terrace and on all downstream tributaries.

Kispiox River

The river is clear, but it is so low that it is really tough fishing and fish will have a tough time making it over the gravel bar at the mouth of the river.

Bulkley River

River is green and super low. Some nice Chinook are still being taken. Coho and Pinks are moving in, and it is time to bring out your little trout rod and have some fun with the Pinks! A couple of Steelhead have already been caught. Overall, fishing has been pretty good.

Morice River

River is looking good, but fishing has been tougher this year. People are starting to bring out their Steelhead gear.

WARNING: BEARS on all our rivers. It is their time of the year. A smart angler is very BEAR AWARE and carries PEPPER SPRAY!!!

A note from BC Parks

“Grizzley Bears are wild and unpredictable, use extreme caution in this [Babine River] area. Please adhere to all Park Rules as noted below.

Bear Information for Anglers

A sustainable fishery at the Babine River is dependent upon a safe environment for both people and bears. To achieve this, BC Parks sets out some guidelines for fishing at the Babine River. Detailed information about bear safety is also available at http:www.env.gov.bc.ca/bcparks/explore/misc/bears/bearsaf.html

[Give] bears plenty of room. Leave your fishing spot if a bear is in the river and give them plenty of space. If approached by a bear, reel in, and leave the area. Cut your line if playing a fish. You may return to your fishing spot when it is safe to do so.

Food and other attractants are not allowed on shore. All garbage must be stored within your vehicle, not left on sight.

Fish must be returned to a secured location within your vehicle immediately after capture.

Dogs must be kept on a leash.

Children must be accompanied by and adult at all times.

During the peak salmon fishing season in August, please refrain from fishing from 1 hour after sunset until 1 hour after sunrise to provide an undisturbed period for the bears to utilize the river corridor.
Follow all regulations on posted signs

Aggressive bear behaviour resulting from failure to comply with these regulations could result in temporary closure of the area to fishing; this would affect many. Don’t be the one responsible for a park closure.”



Steve Hidber
Oscar's Source for Sports
Box 550
1214 Main Street
Smithers, BC
V0J 2N0

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BC FFF Newsletter

Here is the latest BC FFF newsletter outlining alot of their good work.
http://bcfff.bc.ca/newsletter/FlyLines.V10N1.pdf

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Skeena recreational sockeye fishery update

Word today from DFO Prince Rupert is it looks like the recreational sockeye fishery in Skeena will remain open for now.

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Latest Sportfishing Update from Oscar's Sports

Here is the latest sportfishing update provided courtesy of Oscar's Sports in Smithers.
Dont know how the updated sockeye run estimates will effect the recreational sockeye opening, but it might. We have some inquiries into DFO and will post any updates when received.




They Found some Sockeye!

Last week we asked the question "Where Have All the Sockeye Gone"? Today we can tell you that they have found enough for a Sockeye opening on the Skeena. Effective July 14 the Skeena is open from the mouth all the way up to the confluence with the Babine.

Limit is 2 per day, possession of 4. There is no retention of Sockeye in the area of the Kitwanga as marked by the boundary signs. The Babine will be open August 1-31, limit 2 Sockeye per day, possession 4, and fly fishing and barbless hook only.

The recreational catch rate is estimated at 4% of the total Sockeye catch. We are happy that we do have an opening but also know that the Sockeye commercial catch and native fisheries can greatly impact the Steelhead and Coho returns. The best solution is to not manage for any one specific group but have so many fish returning that commercial, native, and sport fishers are all happy. Let’s forget the politics and just think about the fish.


Low Water

Most of our rivers are running at near record low levels. Ministry of Environment data shows the Fraser, Thompson, Skeena and Nass systems are well below normal levels for this time of year. The Skeena and Nass are so low that they are classed as Drought Level 3 (very low condition).

The Bulkley is flowing at below normal condition.

All of this means that slower water flows tend to concentrate the fish a little more and will give anglers easier access to the many bars along the Skeena. It will probably mean that jet boaters should be very aware of the hazards and have good knowledge of the safe channels as water is much shallower than normal. Be careful.


Fishing Sockeye

When fly fishing for Sockeye the need for a good strong hook is critical. We are constantly hooking bottom so we need a very strong hook that holds as sharp a point as possible in these conditions. The hook we have been really impressed with is the Mustad R90 size 4. It holds a point extremely well and is a 4X Strong. Even though it is only a #4 we have landed 30-40 pound Springs with that hook. We like the #4 as Sockeye in the ocean are plankton feeders and are used to small feed. In observing Sockeye from a high vantage area we notice with anglers using those larger flies, that the Sockeye simply move aside to let the bigger flies pass by.

The technique for fishing Sockeye is called high stick nymphing. Google up High Stick nymphing and you can watch some videos on Youtube to get the idea. On the Babine or the bars on the Skeena the fast water seams are the Sockeye highway and concentrate the upstream migration. In slower water the Sockeye spread out, in fast water their line of travel is much narrower. Casts should be short and upstream. Keep rod parallel to the water and follow your fast sinking line and as it passes you lower the rod tip. The idea is to keep as tight a line as possible from your rod tip to the fly. I have watched many anglers cast medium to long casts with huge bellies in the line. All that will catch is a huge dose of frustration. Once anglers learn to high stick the rod on the seams their success is immediate.

Fly line must be fast sinking to get immediately to the bottom, raising and lowering the rod tip keeps the fly in the zone. Leaders must be short, in the one meter range and usually 15 pound test. We seldom go above 20 pound because we then risk losing our whole fly line. We would rather break a fish off than lose a $60 fly line.

All foul hooked Sockeye must by law be released, and anglers fishing the Babine which opens on August 1 must use fly fishing gear only. This regulation also means no external weight. You can't use split shot, lead wraps etc. Check with your speciality tackle shop for the proper weight sink tips needed.

If a fish is obviously foul hooked the fish should be broken off immediately, not trying to wrestle it to the beach.

Enjoy your weekend.


Kitimat River

Some rain and high tides should bring some fish in which have been holding off the river mouth. Anglers drifting the upper river have been picking up some fish and having fairly good results. Lower river has been a little slower but rain and tides could change that. Chums and pinks are now in the river.


Kitimat Tidal Portion

Anglers still hooking fish in the bottom reaches of the river. This fishery will soon end as main run enters the river.


Douglas Channel

The Douglas is fishing excellent with anglers boating Chinook, Coho, Pinks, Chums and some big Halibut including a 128 pounder.


Terrace area

The Skeena is right at the peak of the Chinook run right now. Hot weather brings the rivers up a little but all rivers are in good shape. Sockeye have just opened on the Skeena as of July 14. Limit 2 per day 4 possession. Kalum and Copper have been producing fish.


Prince Rupert

Excellent fishing out of Rupert with the peak of the Springs coming in and more and more Coho showing up daily. Bottom fishing good with rockfish, ling and Halibut.

Absolutely prime time to be there.


Bulkley River

Water is low and clarity is excellent. Fish are in but tough to get.


Kispiox River

We have had mixed reports about the fishing. Some guys are getting into a lot of fish while others are leaving empty handed. Water is low, but river clarity is excellent.


Morice River

Again, fish are in but catching is tough. The water is so clear and low that they will be in the deep pools waiting for more water before they move on.


Steve Hidber
Oscar's Source for Sports
Box 550
1214 Main Street
Smithers, BC
V0J 2N0

Tel: 250-847-2136
Fax: 250-847-3679

info@oscarssports.com
www.oscarssports.com

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Sportfishing Update

Sportfishery update from Oscar's Source for Sports, Smithers


Luck of the Irish

There are not many situations that can quicken an anglers pulse more than being on one of our Northwestern rivers when the salmon are in. The sights of salmon rolling, yells of "Fish On", the expletive deleted of fish lost, and the excitement up and down the river is hard to beat. This weekend the waters of the Nass, Kitimat and Skeena drainage will host some of the biggest Spring/Chinook Salmon in the world and their hopeful anglers. Each angler feeling like they are in the final few of a lottery and their time has come.

The sights and sounds of salmon on the move keeps you enthused long past the usual energy limit. Rests are short, because each minute not casting is a lost opportunity, and the next cast may be your time. And when it comes to the last cast and time to go, I know for me and my buddies, that last cast may be the longest moment in sport. We just don't want to leave.

So whether you are pulling plugs, casting spoons, bouncing Spin-N-Glos, bar fishing or swinging a fly, this is your time. Kids are out of school and there are more visitors around but our rivers have lots of room. On some of our more popular rivers crowding can become an issue on the easily accessible holes but if anglers practice the "rotation ethic" everybody can get along.

On one trip with three other fly fishing buddies on a very busy area on the Kitimat, we saw an angler firmly planted right in the middle of our favoured run. During the 15 minute walk to the area he had not moved. What to do. Go to another area that likely would also have lots of anglers or convince him to use the "rotation method"?

As it turns out he was a visiting angler from Italy. An accomplished angler, he had fished New Zealand, Argentina and Alaska but no one had explained the "rotation" to him. He readily agreed and we spent the most enjoyable next seven hours fishing that riffle. The five of us swapped fishing tales, helped each other land and release many salmon, took pictures and shared some lunch. It was a great afternoon and the visiting angler said it was the most enjoyable day he had ever had, and thanked us profusely for including him in the group. The thanks was ours for letting us come into a crowded situation. It was the ultimate win-win scenario and a very memorable trip.

The Springs/Chinook are in the Nass system, the Kitimat is absolutely prime right now and the whole Skeena drainage now has salmon in the Copper(Zymoetz), Kispiox, Babine, Bulkley and Morice and all downstream tribs of the Skeena.

Proper tackle is a must. 8 1/2 foot to 12 foot rods rated 25-40 pound with 25-40 pound mono or 50-65 pound braid is necessary. Many anglers are using the new Line Counter Ambassadeur reels and really like them, especially when drifting, pulling plugs or trolling. A large net is recommended. Nothing worse than a monster in too small a net. Single barbless "sticky sharp" hooks are not only recommended but mandatory.

My last salmon trip was a memorable one. We were fly fishing one of our favourite riffles. There were many Springs in the river and the Chums were also showing up. I hooked a very hot fish who screamed out 75 yards of backing like there was no drag. I turned the rod to adjust the drag to a heavier setting but inadvertently pointed the rod at the fish. The rod was ripped from my hand. The panicked dive for the rod missed and I as I stood up dripping wet I thought "What a stupid mistake". There goes a perfectly good Sage rod and reel donated to the river. The group of anglers from Ireland that were below us offered their condolences through heaving shoulders. My buddy said "What are you going to do?” “I have another rod in the truck, I'll go get it".

Returning a half lour later to the river I was about 100 yards from my buddy when one of the downstream Irishmen said 'I've hooked an orange line". It was my backing line. My buddy moved down and here comes the fly rod. The Sage was miraculously unbroken. As he handed the rod to me he said "I think the fish is still there".

Sure enough that fish was still on a half hour after the initial hookupl. Thirty five minutes later I landed a 35 pound Spring Salmon. Unfortunately that salmon was foul hooked through the dorsal fin, which is why I couldn't control him on the initial hookup. Never have I wanted to take a salmon so bad as that salmon. The half hour walk, the expected non return of a perfectly good Sage rod and Sage reel and that "dummy" feeling wanted me to savour every bite of that fish, but, legally you must release every foul hooked fish. So I released it and thanked that salmon for returning my rod and reel and for the story. One other thing, I will never again doubt the "luck of the Irish".

There is not much that can match the feeling on a salmon river when the run is prime. The feeling of expectation, the screaming of the eagles, the occasional bear, that unexpected seal head popping up in front of you, the wild yells as someone first hooks up.

Wherever you fish this holiday weekend, Enjoy yourself.! Be Safe and may the "Luck of the Irish" be with you.

Kitimat River

Lots of fish caught on the Kitimat this past week. Reports are better with a combination of high tides and higher water to bring the fish in. Good results with those anglers drifting from mid river and down pulling either Hot Shots or Kwikfish plugs. On lower river at Pump House, Hatchery Island Lower Dike most anglers are bottom bouncing or bar fishing with their favoured Spin-N-Glo/hoochie combo. Some anglers are more comfortable casting Gibbs #65 Koho spoons and doing well. Best fish this past week was a 62 pound beauty.

Because of the single barbless hook restriction on all our rivers many fish are "long distance released". Some days are like that. Make sure to use premium hooks and line and tackle is in good working order.

The Kitimat Tidal Fishery is hot right now as the Springs stage in the bottom of the river. Springs hold here and come in with the higher tides or water conditions. Mainly a jet boat guided or good local knowledge situation. A limited time unique opportunity for some great fishing

Douglas Channel

Fishtrap, Sue Channel, Kitsaway and all the way out to Money Point reporting very good fishing for Spring/Chinook and the outer reaches of the Douglas also reporting quite a few Coho. Good Halibut and Gray Cod, Yeloweye Rockfish in some areas.

Terrace area

The Skeena dropped over the last week and fishing has been described as excellent on the main stem Skeena, first time this season described as such. As water drops more bars will become fishable and will tend to concentrate the seams where the fish are running. Bottom bouncing and bar fishing most preferred method, but many anglers are finding that the fly, either single handed, or with Spey rods can be very successful, and rewarding, fighting a big Spring. The Kalum is still high but in good shape and the Copper(Zymoetz) is now fishable.

Prince Rupert

Excellent fishing now found throughout the Rupert Area. Good reports from Work Channel, Dundas, Zayas, Squatterrie, Stephens, Eddy pass, Humpback Bay and Tsum Tsadai. Some triple digit Halibut and lots of rockfish. Many anglers don't bother with the abundant rockfish as they target the favoured halibut and salmon but they can be a lot of fun with light driftfishing/jigging techniques against the rock walls and kelp beds in the less travelled areas.

Bulkley

If fish are rolling in the Morice, then they have to have gone up the Bulkley! Rumours are going around that fish are now being caught at Idiot Rock and places downstream. Water is looking great but is still high. Use slightly bigger weights, lures, and/or spin n glos to get down on the bottom because of the high water.

Morice

Water is great and fish are seen rolling in some pools.

Kispiox

Fishing is reported as good. Fish are being caught throughout the river. River was looking great although they have gotten a bit of rain in the last 2 days, so it may bump up a bit.


Added Note:

Any ladies who are interested in learning or perfecting their fly-casting are welcome to join Kerry’s Casting Classes. The classes are taught by her alone, usually spread over two evenings. Cost is $50. You can bring your own gear, or she has some available as well. For more information, please stop by and talk to Kerry!

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Latest Regional Sportfishing Update Courtesy of Oscar's Sports

Here is the latest regional sportfishing update from Oscar's Source for Sports in Smithers.


Fly du jour

Looking back through my old fishing journals of the last thirty years reveals an evolution in the fly du jour. Back then the steelheader tied on a Skunk or a Skunk. We varied the size but the Skunk was the fly du jour of the day, month or year. Sometimes you tried something a little more exotic such as a Thor, Skykomish Sunrise or Burlap. Inevitably you would reach in the box and tie on that old familiar friend, the Skunk. After all the Skunk had prevented a skunk many times and you don't want to throw an old friend into the feather pile to slowly rust in peace.

Over the years new patterns, materials, methods and colours came into vogue. The need to become "with it, in fashion, current, hip, out of the rut" created a need to fill those fly boxes with the newest and hottest patterns available. And what a selection there was. Flies and the companies that tie them had come out of the dark ages. Colours and materials had fly anglers salivating with perfect creations. Domestic and offshore sellers brought the fly tying to an art form with perfect clones of some incredible patterns in a kaleidoscope of colours and designs. Companies like Umpqua, Idylwilde, Rainy Riding, Solitude and others gave us superbly tied flies on high quality hooks that rivalled the best that most of us could tie ourselves if we had the skill and time.

Over the years those fishing journals showed definite preferences for certain flies. New flies were added to the personal "Fly Hall of Fame". One year there were a lot of steelhead "players" in the river. Players are those steelhead that play with your mind and cardiac health by coming up to nose the fly, jump over it, swirl on it, look at it and generally do everything but take it. Those frustrating teasers were driving us nuts as we kept trying smaller flies and different patterns. A fellow visiting angler suggested using a great little fly named the "Undertaker" and riffle hitching the fly. The "Undertaker" was aptly named as it became our finishing fly for those players. Whenever those players had us on the "expletive deleted" as a second language we would finish them with an "Undertaker".

In another year the first trip of the year yielded a half hearted rise and that was it for the day. The next trip the water was higher and dirtier so decided to "Blue Moon" them. In two pools I mooned 7 fish. Guess what fly was my "go to fly" for the rest of the season? That combination of blue and black marabou in the water was unbeatable or was it? I don't know, because why would I use anything else, right.

The next year a local priest was interested in a pontoon boat so we arranged a Saturday morning short float to show him how to handle the boat through the rougher water. Of course we took the rods along. Wouldn't want to waste all that water on just paddling would you? I was following him through the run hoping divine intervention would bless him when the 6 inch string leech i was using stopped. Oops, wrong angler. The best steelhead I have ever taken gobbled that leech. We took a couple of pictures of that fish and every picture had my head cut off. Maybe it was on purpose. He said it was just coincidence, as he was not familiar with the camera. Anyways, you know that big string leeches were well used for the rest of the season.

The Steelhead of the Skeena are particularly predisposed to the dry or waking fly and many anglers use nothing but. It certainly is one of the most thrilling of the takes. Watching that white mouth come up and inhale the fly is heart-stopping and we can fish the dry/waking fly right down to around 40F(4-5C). Many anglers feel that this is the purest of the art and will only use natural materials such as moose or deer hair bomber type flies. There are many variations of these and they have their zealous followers. I have used an all foam fly called the "Pompadour" with very good results and it is unsinkable. The dry rod is always loaded with one and because it has worked so well it is another in my own confidence fly series.

A good angling buddy who is a very good angler has a fly box loaded with egg sucking leeches. As he often states "If they aren't taking these they got lockjaw". He catches a lot of steelhead but most important is he is a very good caster, powerful wader and knows the water.

Each season brings new lessons as the Steelhead fanatics migrate to their beloved rivers. The smell of fall, that feeling in the air and the promise of fish in the most beautiful places in BC call the soul. As the fly boxes open old tried and true friends call out "Pick me, Pick me, I've got your back before, I won't disappoint". However, a visit to your pro fly shop reveals a heady array of new patterns that you swear that if you were a Steelhead you would have go on a steady diet of because they look so good. And when another angler says "Yeah, I got 3 on that the other day". Well you just have to have some, right?

The reality is many flies work including those old favourites and some of the new ones just have to be tried. Confidence, strong casting, good wading and ability to "read" the water are so intertwined in steelhead fishing that they are inseparable. Whether they are store bought, loaned, tied by yourself, ugly or as beautiful as a Paul Miller creation they can all bring magic to the Steelhead river.

Oh, and the best fly for Steelhead is the one that is inches in front of their nose when they are hungry and the best time to fish Steelhead is whenever you can. As Wayne Gretzky told us "You miss every shot you don't take".


Please take care in landing those Steelhead. Land and release Quickly. Respect the fish and fellow anglers.

Have a great weekend

Bulkley River
River looks good, especially for the amount of rain we've had. The Earth is so dry it will take quite a bit of rain for it to dirty up the river. Fishing has been good. Lots of anglers out this past weekend and most of them are happy. The Pink season is nearing the end and sometimes you can smell them down on the river bank. Coho and Steelheading are both doing really good. Quite a few fish caught and most of them are pretty nice sizes!! So there are fish in the river, you just need to take some time and get out there!


Douglas Channel
Kitimat experiencing some of the best Coho fishing in many years. Good catches throughout the Channel and into the harbour. Many anglers limiting out and lots of Halibut. Chamber of Commerce Derby last weekend. Results next week


Kitimat River
Great return for Coho. Lots of fish hooked on Derby weekend. Still a few pinks but they are just about done. A little rain could bring even more Coho into river.


Terrace area
Steelhead, Coho, Sockeye and Pinks in the river. Sockeye and Pinks getting close to end of their run. Steelhead have been taken estimated close to 30 pounds. Lower Skeena tributaries just starting to get their Coho and that will continue right into October.


Prince Rupert
Northern Coho and a great season for them. Like Kitimat some good returns. Can't beat September on the ocean with good Coho around. 129# Halibut taken and many in the 20-40 pound range.


Thank You.

Oscar's Source for Sports
Box 550, 1214 Main St.
Smithers, B.C.
V0J 2N0
ph250 847 2136
fx250 847 3679
www.OscarsSports.com
info@oscarssports.com

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Latest Skeena region sportfishing update

Here is the latest Skeena regional sportfishing update courtesy of Oscar's Source For Sports, Smithers.

The point about fish handling is extremely important. Commercial fishing lobbyists assert the sportfishery kills a great deal of steelhead. We disagree strongly with that assertion, but encourage steelhead anglers to treat their catch with the utmost respect. Keeping the fish in the water while any measurements or photos are taken is paramount. Just imagine yourself running a marathon then someone holding your head underwater....How well would you fare? This analogy describes the steelhead's side of the catch and release story very well.

So, please be smart and considerate towards our fantastic quarry. Moreover, dont give the commercial lobbyists any ammunition to criticize our fishery with poor fish handling techniques.

The image shows a well handled and photographed fish.



Sweet September

For an angler and especially a Steelheader few months hold the magic of September. Cooler nights, pleasant days, glorious colours and some of the biggest Steelhead in the world make their way home to the rivers and streams of North Western BC. It is our favourite time of the year. All Steelhead water is beautiful, but none more so than the magic of the Skeena and Nass drainage. The Kalum, Copper, Kispiox, Sustat, Babine, Bulkley and Morice are whispered wherever Steelheaders talk of their own personal Valhalla, Nirvana or Steelhead Paradise.

September holds the promise of a postcard day, and a willing chrome buck or doe rising through the gin clear water to take your offering. It is also much more than that. It is the mountains framing the river, the eagle in the tree across from you, the black bear browsing the bank and the old friends and new acquaintances you will meet. The only problem with September is that it doesn't last long enough.

Steelhead and the waters they live in are special and that is why we need to insure that we take the greatest care in preserving these values. Hooking a fish is great but the proper landing and release insures that fish survives.

Most steelheaders take great care in the proper playing, handling and release of their fish. Steelhead should be played with adequate tackle strong enough to do the job quickly. A fish played too long on light tackle will tire the fish unduly. Most of us use line/leaders of 12#-15#. Play the fish as quickly as tackle will allow. Bring the fish to hand in a couple feet of water. Fish should never be skidded up on shore to thrash around on the rocks. All hooks must be barbless which makes hook removal easy. Cradle the fish under the pectoral fins and around the tail until fully recovered. A fish released too early may seemingly swim away but succumb later. Take the time for proper release. Trout studies have shown that a fish out of water for 60 seconds may have 60% mortality. Keep the fish in the water.

We all like a memory of the fish and everyone has a digital camera now. If you want a picture compose the picture beforehand. Choose your background, how the fish is held, angles, framing in advance. Many shots are spoiled by the glare off the fish's side, so agree beforehand to tilt fish up or down to avoid that spoiled shot. With everything planned ahead the fish can be lifted and the picture taken quickly.

Most pictures are the Cheesy grins we have all seen. One of the best pictures I ever had of myself with a steelhead was taken by a fishing companion who gave me the best advice on fish pictures I have ever had. When I looked at the camera with that usual cheesy grin John told me "I don't want to see that ugly mug, it's all about the fish, look at the fish." He was right. Anybody looking at the picture knows it is you, the fish is the subject.

Prime time on Steelhead water can make for some crowding. Etiquette is important to insure yours and other anglers trips are pleasurable. It is nice to be the first into the run but that is not always possible. If other anglers are present either move to another hole or ask to fish above them as they move through the hole. A common practice is rotation. When fishing in a group, if the downstream angler gets a fish, after landing that fish he steps out of the water so the upstream angler now has a chance for the next fish. By rotating like this it allows a number of anglers to fish the run.

Never step in below another angler on the same run. That would be the same as cutting in line at the supermarket, theatre or ski lift. No manners, no respect.

One day in July four of us went on a trip to a coastal river for salmon. The river is very popular, especially it's lower reaches. Upon arrival we saw one angler firmly planted right in the centre of the run. As we walked out to the bar we discussed what we should do. He was a visiting angler from Italy. His English was strained but he understood the rotation ideal "Ahh, rotundo to circle." The now 5 of us spent the next eight hours helping each other land springs, chums and pinks on the fly and swapping fish tales. He thanked us profusely when he left for including him in the group and we all enjoyed his company. Sometimes it just takes a little communication.

Bulkley River
River looks great but continues to drop and even the rain we got doesn’t affect it too much. Still lots of Pinks around with the males starting to get quite a hump on their backs. Quite a few Coho are being caught as well as Steelhead. Lots of anglers heading out for the long weekend, and prospects look good. A late Spring (around 25lb) was caught in Moricetown this past week.

Morice River
Pinks are still dominating this beautiful river but guys are landing Steelhead and Coho. The Coho being caught are mostly between 5-8lb.

Kispiox River
River and weather look fantastic. Fishing has been a bit tougher but there are Coho as well as Steelhead still being caught throughout the river. Pinks are still thick and you have to watch where you step so you don’t step on one!

Douglas Channel
Coho fishing around Kitimat is the best it has been in years. Good Coho at Money Point, Sue Channel and Jesse Falls. Most Coho in the 10-14 pond range but some high teens starting to show up. Hoochies and anchovy most popular baits but Apex and Coyote spoons also working well. Kitimat Chamber of Commerce Derby this weekend with some great prizes. Call 250-632-6294 or 1-800-664-6554 for more info. Good fishing in the Harbour.

Kitimat River
Great fishing for Coho in the river with impressive numbers of fish. Many hooked but less landed. Coho are just that way. So wild and easy to lose on the barbless hook, Make sure hooks are sticky sharp, Hotshots size 25 drifted are good as well as Gibbs Koho spoons in blue or copper, Vibrax spinners.

Prince Rupert
More Northern Coho being taken out of Rupert. Great catches on Coho with some fish now getting close to 20 pounds. Anchovy and hoochies best bets but spoons, Apex and drift-jigging also very productive. Halibut on jigs and bait. Big Ling and Red Snapper in outer islands.

Terrace Area
Steelhead throughout the Skeena watershed. Pinks and Sockeye getting towards tailend of their cycle. Early returns on Steelhead in Nass and Skeena are promising.

Thank you and have a wonderful long-weeked!

Oscar's Source for Sports
Box 550, 1214 Main St.
Smithers, B.C.
V0J 2N0
ph250 847 2136
fx250 847 3679
www.OscarsSports.com
info@oscarssports.com

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Latest sportfishing update from Oscar's

Here's the latest regional sportfishing update provided by Oscar's Source for Sports in Smithers.



Coho and Steelhead Returns

We hear much in the media about the catastrophic returns of salmon to the Fraser River System. Fortunately, the Skeena system has been spared from the poor returns. Although Sockeye Salmon numbers are down we are still allowed to fish and keep those delicious Sockeye. However when it comes to Steelhead and Coho returns we have good news.

The Tyee Index http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/northcoast/webdocs/Tyee%20Test/QDailyIndices.htm shows returns so far are above the decade average for both species. Great news for the local and visiting anglers. Nobody complains if we all get a fair share of the salmon returns and leave enough escapement for the future.

Coho Salmon in the ocean or fresh in the river are sometimes incorrectly identified as Chum Salmon. Check out http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/species-especes/salmon-saumon-eng.htm for easy identification. Coho will have a wide tail base, almost square tail, white gums and spots on the top of the body and tail. As spawning advances Coho will show the darker spawning colours as the males develop the hooked jaw and females also get darker.

Coho are athletic, strong fish and put up a determined fight usually with a lot of jumps. In the saltwater they readily take Coyote Spoons. Apex, Hoochies, Squid and needlefish and herring, anchovies. Driftfishing lures like the Buzz Bombs, Pirkens and Zeldas have a loyal following and many anglers specialize with the various bucktail type of flies. In freshwater you can bottom bounce with Spin-n-Glos, Gooey Bobs with wool. Marabou jigs either bottom bounced or used with a float are very good. Probably the most popular method for Coho is casting the proven spoons and spinners. Gibbs Koho spoons have been a standby for BC anglers for years. Kohos in sizes #35-#65 depending on water depth and speed are used in Silver, silver/red, blue, blue/red and copper/red. Pixee spoons are the most popular in Alaska and are very good in our waters. The best colours are pink, red, blue/red and chartreuse/blue. For spinners the Mepps in #3 and #4 in blue/red and the Vibrax in size #3-#5 are best. Vibrax colours silver, gold, blue, blue/red and copper are all well proven. Many guides will cut the hook off the Vibrax and install a good quality split ring with a quality single hook. They claim better hooking and landing of Coho with this slight modification.

All hooks most be single, barbless and replacing with a high quality Gamakatsu Siwash or Octopus hook is recommended. Because we are often bouncing, and hooking bottom, hooks should be checked for sharpness often. A sticky sharp hook is the single most important thing you can do to improve your luck. The Easy Lap Model S sharpener is good but the best for ease of use is the Dr. Slick diamond sharpener, perfect for lures or flies and has a coarse and fine side.

Fish the current seams and make sure your lure is close to the bottom. You will lose tackle but that is where the salmon travel so make sure you are in the zone.

Limit on Coho in most rivers is 4 but only 2 may be over 50 cm (20 inches).

Regulations can be found for both fresh and saltwater at http://www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/fm-gp/rec/species-especes/salmon-saumon-eng.htm

Check your area and river for complete info.

Enjoy your weekend. Be safe.

Bulkley River
The hot weather that we have had the last couple days has made the water a little murky, its a shade of cement green right now because of the glacier melt. A ton of pinks have been caught and can be seen rolling in all their favorite spots on the Bulkley. Coho are also moving in and quite a few are being caught, they make for a great fight and great eating. Even the odd steelhead is being landed as the early run comes through with more expected in September and October

Kispiox River
The water is super low right now and the river seems almost a trickle. Lots of pinks around with some coho. Usually when the river is low like this, fish wait at the mouth of the river for some more water (possibly like the rain they got last night) and then make their move. 8 steelhead were caught in native nets, one of them being around 50lb!! So the steelhead are moving to!

Morice
The river is really nice and clear and again is full of pinks! Quite a few coho being caught as well as some steelhead. Don't forget any fish you catch that have a tag, you must report.

Prince Rupert
Coho fishing still great out of Rupert and now some of the Northerns are starting to show up( the 18+ pounders). As the forecasts show we are having a good return of the coho. When the Coho are really biting it is not uncommon to have 2 or 3 fish on at once. What a rodeo often becoming a garage sale as lines cross and with their frequent jumps you lose track of your fish. Often we will keep a cast/spin rod close with a Buzz Bomb or Zelda rigged to cast to the jumpers. If you can cast into the rings quickly enough hookups often occur. Big Halibut now being taken as the Halibut follow the runs in. Halibut in Hecate Strait, Tree Knobs and Melville Island. Coho at Stephens Island, Dundas and Work Channel, Humpback Bay.

Douglas Channel
Good Coho fishing throughout the Douglas Channel with many limit catches from Money point right into the harbour. Pinks and Chums still part of the catch and red snapper grey cod and halibut for the bottom bouncers.

Kitimat River
Good Coho, Chum and Pink fishing in the river. The Pink return is abnormally high. Some really big Chum have been taken and a few of the northern Coho are showing up. A great year on the Kitimat with so many fish.


Terrace area
River has really dropped in the last couple of weeks and many gravel bars are now showing. Although Sockeye numbers are down there is still a lot of fish being caught. Pinks are numerous and many anglers are less than tickled Pink as they fish for Coho and Sockeye. Many of the early Steelhead are also being caught on the popular bars around Terrace and upriver. Hard to beat when a possible 6 different species can be hooked in one day.

NOTE:

The Bulkley Valley Fall Fair is coming up on the last weekend of August. They are again hosting their 5th Annual Fly Casting Competition. Come into Oscar's to sign up. There is a women's division, kids, and men's open division. Everyone is welcome to come out and show off their stuff. The competition is based on accuracy as well as distance and all fishermen/women will use a 5wt rod to do their casts.

Ladies, kids, and open eliminations at 7pm Thursday, August 27th at Chandler Park.
Finalists finish off in the Rodeo Arena at the Fall Fair on Saturday August 29th at 12 noon.
There are lots of great prizes to be drawn and we encourage everyone to sign up!
More info at 250-847-2136 or info@oscarssports.com

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Latest sportfishing update

Here is the latest regional fishing report courtesy of Oscar's Source for Sports in Smithers.


Bulkley

The weather is HOT and the water has colored because of some snow melt. Fish are being caught throughout the Bulkley. Lots of fish are rolling and jumping down in Moricetown. Anglers and fish alike are finding their favorite holes and spending time in them. Most anglers are hooking into fish between 12-30lb with the odd 40lb fish being caught.

Morice

The water is clear and lots of fish are being seen. Fishing is good and many anglers are taking their boats out and finding their favourite spots, while others are taking up their spots on the river bank.

Kispiox

The river looks great and fish are being caught. Many people are taking good sized fish home while others are content with just going for a swim to cool down .

Terrace area

The Skeena has dropped 1/2 meter in the last week and is fishing excellent for the Springs. One 70+ pounder reported in the last couple of days. Sockeye fishing is good right now and early summer run Steelhead are in the river as well as Coho, Chums, and Pinks. The Kalum is in good shape and fishing well for the big Springs. The Copper is fishable. Good fishing off the mouths of all feeder streams and rivers.

Kitimat River
The Kitimat is still giving up some big Chinook but the Chums and Pinks are the most abundant. Pinks keep everyone entertained and bite readily and are real suckers for Gibbs Cerise Crystal Crocs and pink jigs or pink/red flies. Be prepared though because the Chums and Springs will often take the same flies or lures. Some early Coho are also showing up in the river. I love fishing the Kitimat when it is boiling with fish and you don't know what the next fish will be.

Douglas Channel

Lots of Coho and Pinks being caught down the Channel. So far reports of a good Coho forecast are holding up. Bottom fishers doing well in some spots for Pacific Grey Cod and Halibut. Halibut fishing will further improve as some of these salmon carcasses start to wash down into the Douglas.

Prince Rupert

Fishing good around Rupert. Still some Springs but Pinks and Coho now making up the bulk of the catch. In Rupert as well as the Douglas Channel predictions of a good return of Coho seem to be holding true. Good catches from Porcher. Stephens, Lucy, Squatterrie, Melville, Dundas and Work. Bottom fishing off the more remote kelp beds and rock walls is always good with the various drift jigs. For drift jigging use a smooth 3-4 foot lift with a quick drop. Most bites come at the end of the drop. Use barbless hooks for quick release of unwanted fish.

Thank you and have a great long-weekend!

Oscar's Source for Sports
Box 550, 1214 Main St.
Smithers, B.C.
V0J 2N0
ph250 847 2136
fx250 847 3679
www.OscarsSports.com
info@oscarssports.com

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Regional Sportfishing Update

Here's the regional fishing report from Wednesday, courtesy of Oscar's Sporting Goods in Smithers.


Prince Rupert
Fishing is very good around Rupert right now. Although they are still getting Chinook/Spring Salmon the Pinks and Coho are making up a higher percentage of the limits. Also a few Chums being taken. Most Coho are in the 8-12 pound range. Coyote Spoons in Size #4-5 in Cop Car, Army Truck and Chrome/Blue Prism are working well. Hoochies and Squid in the blue or green colors are good and Krippled Herring and anchovies are good. Many anglers enjoy using the various drift jigging lures such as Buzz Bombs, Pirkens and Zeldas. These drift jigging lures work very effectively for Coho and Springs but also for rockfish,cod, snapper and halibut. Fishing good around Eddy Pass, Squatterrie, Smith Island, Lucy, Melville, Dundas and Work Channel. Friends just returned from Rupert reported great fishing for all species.


Douglas Channel
In the outer reaches of the Douglas Channel Coho are now making up the bulk of the catch as most of the Spring/Chinook are in or close to their spawning streams. Some good catches of Halibut further out with some recorded in the 100+ range. Crabbing and Prawns also good if you take the time. Early returns with the Coho look promising.

The Kitimat Harbor fishery is still producing some Springs/Chinook but that will end soon as the fish enter the river

The Kitimat Tidal Fishery is still good but those days are numbered as fish make their way up river.


Kitimat River
Springs are throughout all open areas of the river from Highway Bridge down. Many anglers doing well on the float trips on this beautiful river. In Lower River bag is mixed with Pinks, Chums, Coho and Springs. Pinks taken on flies, Pink or Cerise Crystal Crocs and pink jigs. Coho and Chums will also hit these. Chum which can reach 30+ pounds in the river are bulldogs and fight strongly and smoke up very well. They take flies easily and Spin=n-Glos.


Terrace
The Skeena although a little high is fishing well for Chinook and increasing numbers of Sockeye. The last two weeks of July is when the biggest salmon are caught. We are talking fish that may weigh 90+ pounds. Sockeye are in the 5-12+ range. The sockeye will be traveling through the river right into September. There are also some early Steelhead in the Skeena at this time of the year. The Sockeye fishery is very popular and can be done with a trout rod and reel loaded with 12-15# test mono. Flies or red yarn work well for sockeye and will also take pinks and steelhead. Hooks must be single and barbless and you need a Salmon licence to keep any salmon.

The Copper is fishable.

Kalum in good shape.


Morice River
The river is a beautiful shade of green and the fish are coming through. People are heading out to their favorite fishing holes and getting a couple here and there. Try bottom bouncing with 4-6oz weights, bar fishing with 8-12oz weights, or casting out some Koho or Kit-i-mat spoons.


Bulkley River
The river looks good and fish are rolling in the small pools. People are catching them anywhere from downstream of Moricetown, to upstream of Telkwa. Mostly fish are between 10-20lbs. Many people using roe while they can, as there is a bait ban on the Bulkley as of August 1st.

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