Fishing for Pink Salmon
A female (foreground) and male (background) pink salmon holding position over a spawning nest.
By Rodney Hsu, Freshwater Fisheries Society
For several weeks now, anglers have been able to enjoy fishing for pink salmon in the saltwater. As we approach early September, these same fish will make their way into the Lower Fraser River and its tributaries. The major southern pink run occurs once every two years, and many anglers look forward to it. In 2015, up to 15 million fish are forecast to return into the system. Here are some tips which should help you have a successful pink salmon fishing season.
Adult pinks returning to their natal streams are two years old, with average weights between 1.5 and three kilograms (about three to six pounds). During the first half of September, big schools will move upstream with the incoming tides. Check a tide table, and plan your trip for the last two hours of the tide.
A spinning rod rated for 4- to 10-lb-test line is appropriate for this fishery, matched with a spinning reel spooled with 6- or 8-lb-test monofilament fishing line. This same set-up can also be used for coho once the pink run is over.
Pink salmon are aggressive; any bright lures with erratic movements will trigger bites. In the Lower Fraser, target pinks by casting and retrieving shiny lures like small spoons, spinners, or jigs. Look for “finning” fish (with the tops of their backs just breaking the surface), and cast toward them. Let your lure sink for several seconds before beginning your retrieve.
If you’re fishing in rivers like the Chilliwack/Vedder, where the current is moderate, float fishing with a jig usually yields the best results. To ensure that you don’t foul-hook any fish as your jig drifts over the school, be sure to adjust the length of line beneath your fishing float so your jig suspends at least 30 centimetres (1 foot) off the riverbed. Like all species of salmon, pinks look up to attack your presentation.
September can still be warm. Make sure your catches are quickly despatched, bled, and placed on ice in a cooler. By keeping them cold, your pink salmon will stay in prime condition for eating until you arrive home. While the market value of these salmon is considerably lower than other salmon species, freshly caught pinks are delicious. Try them grilled on the barbecue, cubed and stir-fried, or made into fish cakes. Salmon candy – thin strips hot-smoked, and finished with a spicy soy-maple glaze – is a true crowd-pleaser.
Please make sure you have a valid angling licence before heading out. Summer 2015 has been hot and dry, with many streams closed to all fishing. Be sure to check the latest notices from the Ministry of Forest, Lands, and Natural Resource Operations and Fisheries and Oceans Canada to see which waters are currently open to fish for pinks.
Originally published here.