Chinook Salmon, May 2012, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Blackmouth, Blackmouth salmon, Chinook, King, King salmon, Spring salmon, Quinnat, Tyee

Average Size:

24 - 36 inches

8 to 30 pounds

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Color and color pattern are reliable distinguishing field marks for this species. (See the illustration.)

Chinook salmon have black gums, distinguishing them from Coho salmon, which have gray or white gums.

Chinooks have narrow caudal peduncles which make them easy to lift with a hand grip at the bae of their tails. This is a reliable "field mark" that distinguishes Chinooks from Coho salmon and Steelhead.

The backs, dorsal, adipose, and both lobes of the tail have small black spots. Coho tails are only spotted on the top lobe.

The anal fin has a very long base, with 14 to 18 rays; longer at its base, and not so deep as that of the Coho.

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

In fresh water Chinook salmon "smolts" feed exclusively on zooplankton and immature aquatic insects. Unlike other anadromous salmonids, Chinook salmon typically leave the rivers' estuaries when they are only 3 to 4 inches in length. Once in salt water or large lakes, they feed on whatever small foods are available. Ultimately, this largest of the North American salmons feeds primarily on fish, especially of those species that aggregate into dense schools, such as Alewife. Squid and shrimp make up the balance of the Chinook's at-sea or lake diet. Pacific salmon do not feed once they have re-entered their fresh water spawning streams.

Fly Fishing for Chinook Salmon:

Fly-fishers and Chinook salmon are unlikely to have close encounters until the salmon have left salt water or the large Great lakes on their spawning runs. Trolling large flies at the mouths of Chinook spawning streams may meet with some success. When the fish have gathered in these waters, casting large streamer flies may also pay off. But, the best fly fishing for these jumbo-size fish begins once the runs have actually entered fresh waters.

Do not bring a pea shooter on a water buffalo hunt. Interested in fly-roddong Chinooks? Leave your 5, 6, or 7 weight gear at home/camp. My Chinook fly rod choice from my personal fishing-gear closet? A 10 foot, 9/10 weight rod and reel. The reel I use holds plenty of backing too. For those of you coastal fly-rodders wondering about what you'll need for Chinook salmon fishing, that 10' 9/10 outfit also works well for Striped bass and Blufish.

What about flies? Well, in spite of the fact that these fish are not feeding in fresh water, they are aggressive. The males throw down the gauntlet right from the get-go. The females are nest-site shopping. Early in their up-stream runs, put a fly in the face of either males or females, and you're likely to get a response, sometimes that'll be a high-speed attack response, especially from the males. Look for aggressive Chinooks not in pools, but in resting slots in shallower riffle areas. Up-river, the most efficient way to connect is to find a comfortable sitting spot, take your seat, get relaxed, and wait 'til you see fish. Cast to those that stop, even briefly, on their up-stream push. A rule of thumb for your fly selection? Bigger, brighter, early on (in the lower parts of the river), smaller, darker (even natural-looking) the further up-stream you and the fish go. Chinooks will not rise far, if at all, in the water column to take your flies, so, you'll need to get them down. Although this author prefers short high-density, fast sinking "leaders," we'll leave the choice for getting your flies down to you. As always, check in with the locals (assuming you find one or more that'll give you real , not wild-goose-chase information) for fish location and fly choice. A few seasons in and you'll be your own local information source.

A conservation note from a local perspective here. When Pacific salmon were introduced to Lake Ontario in the 1950s, the Salmon River (the Lake's major eastern basin tribuary) was flow regulated by the power company's desire to grow its stock-holders' bottom line, not those of the fish and aquatic insect inhabitants of the river. The dam's gates would be opened and power would be generated. Then the gates would be closed, and the river would drop to a mere trickle. Not much was able to sucessfully reproduce under those conditions. About 20 years ago, minimum base flows were established, guaranteeing a year-round river. Back-in-the-day, it was assumed that, with little, if any, natural re-generating, the majority of salmonids would be "harvested" in Lake Ontario. In the spring of 2011, river-edge seining yielded enough river-spawned (not stocked) Chinook parr to extrapolate as many as 10,000,000 young-of-the year salmon getting ready to head out to the lake. In Pacific rim rivers that used to host Chinook runs every month of the year, the picture is not so bright. West coast Chinook salmon were, until their demise, the basis for the very survival of many native tribes. It's probably safe to assume that those days won't be back with us any time soon. Check and comply with all local, state, and provincial regulations whenever you wet line for these great fish. We, ladies and gentlemen, are this world's natural resource stock holders. It's not only the other guys' responsibilty to assure that there is a future for our favorite game fishes; it's ours.

 

Sockeye Salmon & Kokanee, April 2012, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Blue-Back, Blueback, Blueback salmon, Red salmon, Little Redfish, Redfish, Pygmy salmon, Kickininee, Koke, silver trout

Average Size:

Sockeye: 22to 28 inches

Kokanee: 12 to 18 inches

Sockeye: 4 to 8 pounds

Kokanee: ¾ pound. to 2 pounds

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Color and color pattern are reliable distinguishing field marks for this species. (See the illustration.)

Non-spawning adult Sockeye and Kokanee salmon have blue-green backs over silver sides and white bellies. with a very few small black spots on their backs and none on their heads or fins.

Spawning adults are bright red with green heads.

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

In fresh water, migratory Sockeye salmon and Kokanee, feed almost exclusively on zooplankton. Even at sea, Sockeye salmon feed mainly on smaller foods, the largest being small and immature fish.

Fly Fishing for Sockeye & Kokanee:

The Sockeye is another “lesser” species of Pacific salmon that has just recently come to the attention of fly-fishers. They are a prime game fish, with the males especially becoming aggressive in fresh water. A growing number of fly patterns for Sockeye, with new ones still coming on-line, is currently being developed. Anglers visiting rivers that host runs of Sockeye are advised to contact local fly shops to learn what are the best patterns for that specific water. If you’re specifically targeting Sockeyes, you’ll want to use 6 to 7 weight balanced outfits with sink-tip lines to get the fly down.

Fishing for Kokanee will require the use of a boat or other small watercraft. Like all landlocked salmonids, Kokanee will be found in water at their preferred temperature of 50 degrees F. Kokanee form schools as they search for food, so locating these is critical to success. The best time of year? Spring, when the lakes they inhabit are “turned-over” and are about the same cool temperature throughout. When you locate a school, small streamer or wet flies on light 5 to 6 weight tackle are the likely best bets for catching Kokanee.

Steelhead, March 2012, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Steelie, Steelhead trout, Coast Rainbow trout, Silver trout

Average Size:

18 to 32 inches

2 to 12 pounds

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Color and color pattern are reliable distinguishing field marks for this species. (See the illustration.)

Steelhead bodies tend to be more elongated than those of non-migratory Rainbow trout.

The back, tail, adipose, and dorsal fins are lightly sprinkled with small black spots.

Both the upper and lower lobes of the tail fin are spotted, distinguishing Steelhead from Coho salmon

The caudal peduncle is thick, making it difficult to lift a Steelhead by the base of its tail..  

There are 8 to 12 principle rays in the anal fin.

The side and belly of fresh-run Steelhead are bright silvery white. Their backs range in color from pale to dark olive green or steely slate gray.

As Steelhead progress up-stream to their spawning grounds, they gradually assume the colors of non-migratory Rainbow trout, while maintaining their longer body shape.

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

In streams, Steelhead fry feed on small planktonic organisms that drift to them on the stream's current. As parr, they feed mainly on immature aquatic insects and a broad range of other invertebrates, as available. In their natal streams Steelhead are opportunistic and take whatever foods come their way, relying heavily on aquatic insects and other aquatic invertebrates.

At sea, Steelhead feed on shrimps, squid, and smaller fishes, as they encounter them. In lakes they feed on aquatic invertebrates and fishes. In the Great Lakes, Steelhead are less dependent than Chinook or Coho salmon on Alewife for food. Their Great Lakes diet consists of the larger aquatic invertebrates, and a large percentage of a variety of small forage fish, such as Emerald shiners, and, more recently, the exotic Round goby. Unlike the salmons, Steelhead do actively feed when on their spawning runs. Where salmon are present, Steelhead runs are often triggered by their cousins' runs, during which the trout feed heavily on salmon eggs. After the salmon runs subside, Steelhead turn their attention to immature aquatic insects, subsisting on these until they spawn in late winter or early spring.

Fly Fishing for Steelhead:

Yes folks, the Steelhead is, as you probably already know, one of the fly fishing world's most actively sought species. They have all the attributes of prime game fish: an aggressive nature that can lead to their very actively taking artificail flies, as well as lures and baits; rugged power and stamina that make them challenging for even veteran anglers; and a willingness to make acrobatic leaps of all sorts and from any and all take-off points.

Why certain populations of Rainbow trout migrate to sea or lake, while others in the same stream do not, no one knows, but they do. After three to four years growing in the streams of their birth, Steelhead come to the stage in their lives known as smolt. At this time their coloful spotted bodies turn a bright silver and they head downstream. Once at sea, or in large lakes, they grow rapidly on a larger variety of food than is offered by the streams. On average, after one to three years "at sea," Steelhead return to the streams where they were born to spawn. It is these runs that afford the fly fisher his or her best opportunities to hook a Steelhead. The majority of Steelhead runs take place in the fall of the year.

Like all anadromous salmon and trout, Steelhead runs, especially in their native North American West coast ranges, have been significantly reduced during the last 50 years. Many "classic" Steelhead rivers historically hosted runs nearly every month of the year, as was true for Chinook and Coho salmon as well. As a result of habitat loss, river de-watering, and over-harvesting, many of these once huge runs have all but disappeared. The Great Lakes, because of their relatively insulated natures have fared somewhat better. But, in both their native range and in the Great Lakes, Steelhead runs vary widely in numbers from year to year.

As is the case with most of our favorite trout species, flies for Steelhead come in a staggering variety of patterns, with new ones being continually developed. There are many excellent books of Steelhead fly patterns presenty available. My favorite is Flies for Steelhead by Dick Stewart and Farrow Allen. No longer in print, the book has gotten to be a little "pricy" but, is well worth it. Wherever you seek fly reference, you're going to find dries, traditional wets, nymphs, and egg immitating patterns. As always, contacting tackle shops and guide services local to your chosen Steelhead stream is highly recommended.

Now, you've decided you're going to throw some flies at these amazing trout? O.K., on the large West Coast Steelhead rivers you'll be covering a lot of water with each cast, so longer rods, say 10 to 12 feet will help you get the 8 to 9 weight line out. On some rivers Steelhead will reward the persistent fly-caster by hitting a dry fly. Unfortunately, this is not typical. Most Steelheading requires the angler's getting the fly down to the fish. Full sinking lines in those larger weights are no longer the coin of the realm, having been recently replaced by sinking tips on floating lines. Again, the range of possibilites is quite broad. My rig of choice now is a 5 or 10 foot (depending on water levels) extra fast sinking leader, loop attached to my 8 weight floating fly line with a short (18 to 24 inch) section of 6 or 8 pound test flourocarbon between the leader and fly. Here, on the east shore of Lake Ontario, many fly rodders are Spey fishing flies under strike indicators. Personally, I've found (a bit of Hook & Hackle product promotion here) a Batson/H&H 10' 8" 8 weight 4 piece "switch rod" with a fast-sinking 5' leader on an 8 wght floating line to be my go-to outfit. I find that strike indicators at the business end of an 8 weight line require too much heavy lifting to free the belly of the line from the water's surface at the instant the indicator/float telegraphs a possible take. Again, on the larger West Coast rivers, you'll probalby want a more powerful outfit than this.

I know Spey casting is all the rage now, but, having been to that movie some 20 years ago, I've settled on "switch" rods as the perfect median. They're capable of covering plenty of water, but not so much that you're hooking fish too far from you to control, and they're short enough to very comfortably fish close in. Plus "switch" rods are so named because they can be cast with either one or two hands; the best of both worlds.

Do not try to save pennies by assuming that your five weight single action click and pawl trout reel can double as your Steelhead reel. If it's your favorite "trout reel?" leave it at home. Hook a ten pound Steelhead on it and you may well have the fun of literally watching it burn up as the fish freight-trains ints first runs away from you. Invest in reels that have plenty of backing capacity in the six to nine weight class. A good, smooth drag in whatever reel you choose is a necessity….Happily for us, the range of species specific fly-reel possibilities has grown exponetially in the last 50 or so years. As always, base your equipment choices on the size of the waters you plan to fish.

O.K., you've got your rod, reel, line, leaders, waders, flies, water bottle, (flask), rain gear (to insure that it won't rain that day), fingerless gloves, etc., etc., etc……..and the river Goddess has smiled on you and told a bright 11 pound Steelhead to aggressively strike that #8 Green Butt Skunk you've drifted by the fish at least 50 times……Hang on!!!!! You've just hooked a fish that I often describe to Steelheading wanna be's as "psychotic." When asked, "How'd you do today?" I've heard many Steelhead guides reply, "Well, we got beat up by four fish today." "Any to hand?" "Nope." I remember hooking a Steelhead many years ago now that jumped 3 times before I could even get my rod-to-fish connection tightened, tightened just in time for the line to go slack with a thrown fly at its end. Another fish I hooked in the middle of a large pool made a powerful straight-line run away from me into an apron of the pool-bottom that was covered by only about 18 inches of water……Ooooooopppps, in a heart-beat that 9 or so pound fish had made a 180 degree turn and was headed straight back to me at warp speed…..So, my friend, how fast can you reel up that slack to once again make contact with your so recently hooked prize?

Folks, "A great game fish is too valuable to use only once." A Steelhead is truly a great game fish. You want fish for you and your kids and your kids' kids to enjoy as you do? Put 'em back alive. Don't fish in conditions that are either so warm or so cold that the fish are stressed just trying to maintain. If you take a Steelhead you've caught out of the water into 10 degree F. air, it's eyes will very quickly freeze….

As always, carefully read and understand all state, provincial, and local regulations before you cast your flies to any game fish, anywhere, in any season. These are our fish, in other words, they belong to all of us, not just those of us who're expert at catching them. It's up to all of us, working in support of our regional fisheries managers, to sustain and, we can hope, grow our invaluable sport fishing heritage.

Rainbow Trout, February 2012, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Bow, Rainbow, Coast Angel trout, Hardhead

Average Size:

In streams, 10 to 18 inches

In Lakes, 16 to 24 inches

0.5 to 8 pounds

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Color and color pattern are reliable distinguishing field marks for this species. (See the illustrations.)

Rainbow trout vary extremely widely, especially in color. (see illustrations)

The sides, back, tail, adipose, and dorsal fins are (usually) lightly or heavily marked by small black spots.

The adipose fin can be diagnositc, in that it typically has a black outline on its trailig edge.

The caudal peduncle is thick, making it difficult to lift a lagre Rainbow trout by the base of its tail.

There are 8 to 12 principle rays in the anal fin.

The tail fin is slightly forked, with rounded lobes.

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

In streams, Rainbow trout fry feed on small planktonic organisms that drift to them on the stream's current. As parr, they feed mainly on immature aquatic insects and a broad range of other invertebrates, as available. Adult Rainbows are, like all trout, opportunistic and take whatever foods are available, relying heavily on aquatic insects for the bulk of their fare. It is, however, common knowledge that large arctic Rainbow trout are very happy to eat mice that have stumbled into the water.

Lake-dwelling Rainbow trout feed on insects, crustacens, and small fish.

Fly Fishing for Rainbow Trout:

Rainbow trout have been very widely distributed throughout temperate regions of the world. The accompanying range map reflects this trout's broad North American range. Anglers can narrow the field of Rainbow trout fishing possibilities by looking for them in their preferred habitats. In streams and rivers, these fish will be found mainly in faster, well oxygenated sections of streams and rivers. That said, though, they also inhabit medium and large lakes where they provide excellent still-water fly fishing opportuinites, both from shore and small water-craft. The next focusing factor for Rainbow trout fly-fishers are watershed-specific food sources. Generally speaking, stream-dwelling Rainbows will respond well to flies immitating or suggesting indiginous aquatic and terrestrial insects, although streamers are also very productive, especially in high water flows. To here inclusively list those flies most likely to entice Rainbows into taking would be to leaf through all the pages of any good North American fly pattern reference book. So, for the sake of expediency, we'll refer you to local fly shops, guides, and outfitters for that information. Studying the waters where you fish for Rainbows, with an eye to the whole system and its inhabitants, will prove to be the most reliable personal knowledge base.

Equipment? Well, again, because of this trout's extremely wide distribution and habitat preferences, all but the heaviest fly fishing equipment may be appropriate. Your favorite fly tackle, especially in terms of water types where you use it, will be your best guide to what outfit to carry. Small streams holding small trout will be most comfortably covered with 7 ½ to 9 foot rods in the 3 to 6 weight classes. For this work, the simplest reels will serve well. In larger rivers, where you'll be throwing wets, streamers, and big dry flies you'll want 9 to 10 ½ foot rods carrying 6 to 8 weight lines. At this level, reels with strong, smooth drags and sufficient backing capacity can be important. This same gear is appropriate for Rainbows in lakes as well except that when fishing from a float-tube rods should be a minimum of 10 feet long, this to keep the line, during casting, as high above the water as possible. These longer rods for this specific use are usually designed to carry 3 to 6 weight lines. 

Rainbow trout have been so widely distributed as they have, in part, because they are excellent game fish. They are active and willing to take all manner of anglers' presentations. When hooked, they are strong fighters that will often punctuate powerful runs with acrobatic jumps.

As has been suggested in previous articles in this series, Anders Halverson's An Entirely Synthetic Fish is a most interesting read, focusing its research on the global spread of this species and the effects of those introductions on the watersheds where they have succeeded.

Does February's monthly entry seems a bit vague? That is the result of the fact that an entire book devoted to all aspects of the life and times of this species could be written and illustrated.

Coho Salmon, January 2012, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Coho, Silver salmon, Blueback, Cohoe, Hooknose, White salmon

Average Size:

24 to 36 inches

6 to 10 pounds

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Color and color pattern are reliable distinguishing field marks for this species. (See the illustration.)

Cohos have white or gray gums, in contrast to Chinooks, which have black gums.

In both sexes, the snout overhangs the tip of the lower jaw. In spawning males, this is very pronounced.

Irregularly-shaped (sometimes X-shaped) spots are found on the back and only the upper lobe of the tail fin.

The caudal peduncle is thick, making it difficult to lift a Coho salmon by the base of its tail.  

There are 12 to 17 rays in the anal fin.

The tail fin is slightly forked.

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

Coho fry feed on small planktonic organisms that drift to them on the stream's current. As parr, they become more active and feed mainly on immature aquatic insects and a broad range of other invertebrates, as available. They frequently shelter near sunken logs and weed-beds where they hide in waiting to ambush passing prey.

In salt water, adult Coho salmon feed mainly on small fish, shrimp, and squid. In the Great Lakes, the Coho's main food source, as is the case for Chniooks as well, is Alewife.

Fly Fishing for Coho Salmon:

Well folks, we’re finally there. We’ve now entered the world of prime game fish species. The Coho salmon is a pretty good place to start that part of our fish education.

Like ALL our Pacific salmons, the Coho has seen a significant decline in its Pacific Rim numbers over the course of the past 25 years. In the Great Lakes, by contrast, they seem to be maintaining their population. An interesting note in this regard is that the current world record Coho salmon was caught in Lake Ontario. Throughout the Great Lakes, though, the ever-important predator/prey relationship is in constant transition. This is exacerbated, especially in Lake Ontario, by an on-going parade of invasive species brought mainly from the Caspian Sea watershed in the ballast tanks of international cargo ships. We who fish for Great Lakes trout and salmon can only hope that what appears to be the inevitable inflow of Asian Silver and Big-Head carp does not rise to the biologically cataclysmic levels that have been predicted…. Only time will tell in that story…..

On the U.S and Canadian west coast, Coho salmon are among those species which, for a variety of reasons, are in serious decline. For the angler, this decline means possible adjustments in outing plans and the need to pay close attention to local, state, and provincial regulations.

Typical when approaching any anadromous species, timing is everything. West coast salt water fly trolling and fly casting are traditional methods for taking these salmon before they enter their natal rivers on their fall spawning runs. At this time, they are at their prime level of fitness and will be strong, acrobatic fighters when hooked. Cohos that have entered their spawning streams only slightly loose their salt-water vigor and remain willing to aggressively take flies, lures, or baits drifted to them at the speed of the current.

Check local conditions to determine when each river hosts its run of Coho salmon. As a rule of thumb, Cohos tend to run just slightly later than Chinooks. October and November can be assumed to be prime Coho river fishing times.

Equipment? 9 to 10 1/2 foot fly rods that will comfortably handle 7 to 8 weight lines are recommended. Reels should have a backing capacity of 150 to 200 yards under the line. Coho salmon flies cover a broad range of patterns. Checking with local tackle shops where you plan to fish will make your selecting the appropriate flies easier.

Not the biggest of our Pacific salmons, Cohos can well be described as the most game. They are capable of doing all of what we fly-rodders would hope a fish would do. They often strike aggressively, make long powerful runs, and frequently make spectacular arial displays, especially when caught at the beginning of their spawning runs.

Chum Salmon, December 2011, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Dog Salmon, Chum, Calico Salmon,

Fall Salmon, Keta, Hayko, Qualla

Average Size:

24 to 32 inches

8 to 12 pounds

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Color and color pattern are reliable distinguishing field marks for this species. (See the illustrations.)

A few very small black spots on the upper back

The anal fin has a white tip

There are 13 to 17 rays in the anal fin

The tail fin is slightly forked

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

In their shorter spawning streams, young-of-the-year Chum salmon do not feed when out-migrating. In longer rivers they feed on small immature insect larvae, especially midges. When at sea, young and adults feed on small invertebrates then graduate to larger fare, including shrimps, squids, and fish. Adults returning to spawn in their natal streams do not feed.

Fly Fishing for Chum Salmon:

Like the Pink salmon, Chum salmon have not received the fishing attention given to Chinook and Coho salmon. Historically, a few local anglers would troll for Chum salmon with bait and lures in near-shore salt waters.

The recent expansion of everything fly-fishing has seen a growing number of fly-fishers encountering wild Chum salmon on their up-stream migrations and found them to be strong fighters of very respectable size. Although they do not feed in fresh water, Chum salmon will take a well-presented wet fly tied in bright colors and with plenty of flash.

Fly equipment for Chum salmon should be in the 7 to 9 weight class. Especially in the larger rivers, Chum salmon may be up-migrating with Chinooks and Cohos, so, for these waters, the heavier end of that spectrum is advised. For any salmon fishing, a reel with large backing capacity and a smooth reliable drag is a necessity.

As is the case with all anadromous fish species, successful fishing outings will depend on careful study of the water to be fished. Local on-stream knowledge is best and visiting fly-rodders should invest in getting to know the locals through guide, outfitting, and tackle services.

Because, this is not a “glamour” fish, it will probably be many more years before the Chum salmon takes its rightful place with Steelhead, Chinook salmon and Coho salmon. Because of that status, Chums will likely continue to be incidentals that save a not-so-good salmon fishing trip to waters within their broad range. But, as the WWII saying goes, “Smoke ‘em if you got ‘em.”

Pink Salmon, November 2011, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Pink, Slimy, Humpy, Humpback, Hump-Back salmon, Haddo, Holia

Average Size:

The smallest of the Pacific salmons;

15 to 24 inches

1 ½ to 5 pounds

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Color and color pattern are reliable distinguishing field marks for this species. (See the illustration.)

In all phases of life, Pink salmon have prominent large dark spots on their tail fins, backs, and upper parts of the head. These spots are typically about the size of the pupil of the fish's eye.

The tail fin is deeply forked.

Spawning males develop prominent humps on their shoulders and backs, as well as a distinct elongation of their upper and lower jaws known as a kype. This is typical of all trout and salmon. 

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

New-born Pink salmon descend their natal streams very soon after hatching. The consume very little if any food until the reach the river's estuary. Their sea or lake diet begins with small invertebrates followed by mainly fish.

Fly Fishing for Pink Salmon:

The first order of business for anyone targeting this species is to gather information about the rivers it runs. Typically, different rivers that support Pink salmon runs see those runs only once every two years. Because of their diminutive size, probably very few of you reading this will travel far to fish for them. This fish has, however, saved plenty of salmon trips on which the larger species, for some reason, don't appear on schedule.

In salt water most Pink salmon are caught on trolled flies or spoons. Once they have entered their spawning streams, they respond to bright streamer or wet flies on deep sinking lines. Because they share habitats with Steelhead, Chinook, and Coho salmon and because those fish will take a fly intended for Pinks, the angler is advised to fish no lighter than a powerful 7 weight or a standard 8 weight outfit. 

Unlike the larger more sought-after Pacific salmonids, Pink salmon are still very abundant; abundant enough, in fact, to still comfortably support a commercial fishery.

Some years ago, Great Lakes fishery managers began stocking Pink salmon into the Great Lakes. These runs were sustained mainly by annual stockings. Those stocking programs are no longer in operation, so there are many fewer Pink salmon in any of those waters than there were say 20 years ago. Nevertheless, a few Pinks have colonized some Great Lakes tributaries and contribute a few adults to the fishery.

Gila Trout, May 2011, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Gila Trout

Average Size:

8 to 12 inches

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Color and color pattern are reliable distinguishing field marks for this species. (See the illustration.)

The fins, especially the dorsal and tail fins are distinctly larger than those of a typical trout.

The overall color is unusual; pale yellow on the belly under pale reddish sides and a brown back.

There are many irregular black spots on the back, dorsal, adipose, and tail fins. There are only a few spots below the lateral line.

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

Throughout their lives, these typically small trout feed on a broad range of aquatic and terrestrial insects as they become available.

Fly Fishing for Gila Trout:

This is another of our “heritage” species of native North American true trout. Like the Mexican Golden trout, the Gila trout’s range is very limited. Carefully study all state and local regulations before you fish for Gila trout. These vary widely. In some of its re-established waters, no fishing is permitted. In others there is a two fish limit, but this is in areas where Gila trout have hybridized with Rainbow trout and are no longer pure-bred. Keep in mind that this lovely fish was listed on the Federal Endangered Species List as recently as 1966. Intensive habitat and species restoration efforts coupled with education and strictly enforced fishing and bag regulations has resulted in the return of “fishable” numbers of this trout in parts of its historic native range. Nevertheless, Gila trout are still considered a threatened species.

After you’ve made a commitment to find Gila trout within their typically high altitude range and have got yourself away from “the beaten path,” present your insect imitations on light tackle. Nothing heavier than 3 or 4 weight systems are suggested. Match-the-hatch will be the order of the day when in Gila trout waters. Find the water, find the fish, then sit or stand a while just observing what’s going on there. Respect for this trout’s habitat and respect for this trout and its place in the web of life will be the basis of a satisfying outing. We also recommend, because this trout’s station in the world is still very tenuous, that you either use flies with barbless hooks or that you crush the barbs on barbed hooks. (If you’ve never done this, just squeeze the barb down with a pair of needle-nose pliers.) In fact, barbed hooks, because of the barb, are slower to penetrate, much more likely to injure a fish, and MUCH harder to remove when the fish is at hand and about to be released; so, this author highly recommends barbless hooks for all your fly fishing. Oh yeah, especially with threatened species such as this one, if you want future angling opportunities, “put ‘em back alive; ” barbless hooks make that much easier and safer to do.

p.s. For you all who’re wondering when we’re going to get to some big fish? Next month, we dig into the Pacific salmon!!!! A bit late maybe for some of the early runs, but, timely nonetheless……Me? I’ve never met a fish I didn’t like.

Mexican Golden Trout, May 2011, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Several subspecies bear the local names of the rivers they inhabit.

Average Size:

8 to 10 inches

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Overall body shape and fin placement nearly identical to Rainbow trout Parr marks usually remain distinct throughout the fish's life. 

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

Immature and adult aquatic insects and other small invertebrates.

Fly Fishing for Mexican Golden Trout:

Should you decide that the risks are worth taking, fly fishing for Mexican Golden trout will require your smallest outfits. Seven to eight foot two to four weights are appropriate. Flies will be match-the-hatch nymphs and dries in small sizes.

The range map for this species of small trout tells most of its story. With its habitat limited to higher altitude regions of northwestern Mexico, this fish will go unnoticed by all but locals and the very curious and industrious visiting angler. Just getting to these lovely trout is an undertaking. Transportation within its range is at best basic, and, as the national news will tell us, Mexico is not a particularly safe place to travel these days. So, you might well ask, "Why even include the Mexican Golden trout here?" The answer to that is that it, like several other American trout and char species, is unusual and interesting as an example of the specialization that is their hallmark.

This trout is also a sad example of the negative effects of habitat abuse and destruction. The primary "use" for the Mexican Golden trout is as food by the local human populations. Sanitation in the region this fish inhabits is minimal and so, much of its home water is polluted with residential sewage and trash. What happens now in Mexican Golden trout water is similar to what happened to so many North American trout waters in the 19th and early 20th centuries; they were used as convenient industrial and residential sewers, the result of which we all now understand. Many of our formerly heavily polluted waters have been restored to a semblance of their former purity. Of course, these restoration efforts have required literally billions of dollars and man/hours to realize. Sad to think that in this moderately environmentally enlightened era, there are still places where trout are considered just another meal and their habitats trash receptacles……

Cutbow August 2011, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Cutbow

Average Size:

12 to 24 inches

1 to 8 pounds

Distinguishing Field Marks:

As a hybrid cross of the Cutthroat and Rainbow trout, the Cutbow shows characteristics of both lines. Individual specimens and “races” of Cutbow will have varying field marks, depending on light, water, and general habitat conditions. Consistent throughout though are the typical red or red-orange color slash on the near-bottom of the gill covers and jaws, and the usually broad pink or reddish band just below the lateral line. 

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

Typical of stream and lake-dwelling western trout species, young Cutbows feed on all life-stages of aquatic and terrestrial insects and other aquatic invertebrates as they are available. The diet of adult Cutbows is increasingly made up of forage fish.

Fly Fishing for Cutbow:

Match your fly-rod outfits to the habitats you’ll be fishing, increasing in line weight as the size of the water increases. Four and Five weight for small streams and presenting small flies, up to six or even seven weight for larger rivers, ponds, and lakes and casting larger flies such as streamers and larger nymphs and wind-resistant dries.

Small tributary streams should be fished with match-the-hatch fly patterns on light lines and leaders. Muddlers, Stonefly, Caddisfly, Mayfly nymphs, wets and dries, and forage fish imitating streamers will attract larger trout in larger rivers, ponds, and lakes.

Cutbows may well take flies presented to what the angler assumes will be mostly native Cutthroats, which statement begs a discussion of this hybrid’s place in western trout waters. Simply put, through natural inter-breeding of species, Rainbows (and hatchery bred Cutbows) introduced into what were traditionally Cutthroat-only waters, are deeply diluting the pure Cutthroat gene pool and are “taking over” in many watersheds. To give them their due, Cutbows are excellent fly-rod fish, but, so are pure Cutthroats. Again, this Cutbow take-over is evidence of the possible harm that can be done to native species and their habitats through the introduction of non-native species. And still again, we recommend your reading Anders Halverson’s excellent and very “readable” book, An Entirely Synthetic Fish, Yale University Press, 2010, which chronicles the intentional introduction of (especially) Rainbow trout over much of the world’s Northern Hemisphere.

Cutthroat Trout, July 2011, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Blue-back trout, Cutthroat, Red-throated trout, Clarks' trout,

Short-tailed trout, Native trout, Lake trout, Mountain trout

Average Size:

The size of Cutthroat trout is in direct proportion to the size of the habitats in which they live. Small upland streams will normally produce adult Cutthroats in the 8 to 12 inch range. Where they are found in large lakes, Cutthroats can grow to an impressive size of 20 to 30 inches and 5 to 10 pounds.

Distinguishing Field Marks:

The accompanying illustrations indicate the overall typical trout form of the various Cutthroat sub-species.

The red, yellow, or orange slash of color under the gills of all the Cutthroat subspecies distinguishesthem from all other salmonids.

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

Typical of trout, young Cutthroats feed on planktonic organisms that come their way on the natal stream's flow. As they grow larger, they begin to change their diets to ones made up mainly of immature and adult aquatic insects. In ponds and lakes, adult Cutthroats continue feeding on aquatic and terrestrial insects, other invertebrates as available and small fish. In salt water, Coastal Cutthroats feed mainly on fishes and shrimps.

Fly Fishing for Cuthroat Trout:

The various sub-species of this trout are real North American native trout. Unlike our other heritage “native,” the Brook trout, the Cutthroat is a true trout. In most of its range, it is a fish of the “wild places,” fragile habitats that often require serious effort to reach. That’s a good thing too because several other Cutthroat sub-species have already been brought to or are on the verge of extinction. It always strikes this author as a sad fact that we humans seem genetically programmed to decimate those species with which we share this planet that we most highly prize. I think we can truly say that “we’re our own worst enemies.” Next month this column will feature a trout that is a large part of the reason for on-going Cutthroat declines

Those Cutthroats that are maintaining healthy fishable populations continue to delight anglers with their willingness to accept our offerings. Of course, Cutthroats will take a baited hook, all trout (perhaps all fish) will. But the real pleasure in fishing for these elegant fish in their beautiful homes comes to the fly-fisher who takes the time to observe the fish in whatever type of habitat in which he finds them and offer them a carefully tied, carefully presented imitation of the Cutthroats’ natural food.

I know that, in many, if not most of our readers’ cases, I’m “preaching to the choir.” Those of us who have fished the long rod for many years can read range, habitat, and diet entries and know what equipment and flies to carry on an outing. But, for our new-comers to the gentle art, first of all, welcome. Then, when you choose to fish in high or moderate altitude small streams or lakes, assume that you’ll be mostly casting to small fish, so 2 to 4 weight outfits are in order. For the smallest steams, which offer angling pleasures all their own, rods between 7 and 7 1/2 feet are needed to keep your flies out of the stream-side vegetation as much as possible. On medium size streams, an 8 or 8 ½ foot 4 or 5 weight rig is perfect. On the larger trout streams/rivers you’ll want to choose outfits with rods between 9 and 10 feet in length, in the 4 to (even) 7 weight class. 

Lahontan Cutthroats are known to be on the large end of the Cutthroat length and weight scales. To fish large wets, dries, or streamers for these larger fish (Sea-run Coastal Cutthroats grow big and strong while feeding in the salt-chuck too), choose a 9 to 10 foot rod (this author is very partial to 10 to 11 foot rods) that can comfortably throw a 6, 7, or 8 weight line……Flies? Well the menu is HUGE. Immature and adult aquatic insect, mostly caddis flies, mayflies, and stone flies, imitations are in order for small to medium streams. Larger streams, ponds, and lakes will open the door for streamers and large wets and attractor dries. Enumerating all the fly possibilities available for Cutthroat trout fishing would fill a small book; small, but too big for this column…Oh yes, an important detail; match your leader’s tippet size (diameter) to the size flies you’ll be throwing. Your leader’s length will depend on fishing conditions. For instance, in windy conditions a long fine leader will be challenging to accurately cast. Conversely, a stiff large diameter tippet, appropriate for Steelhead and Atlantic salmon fishing is almost guaranteed to spook small fish in small waters. Freshmen, a word; keep at it, get as much dry land practice-casting and on the water fishing time as you possibly can. Practice two or three important knots enough so that you approach being able to tie them blindfolded. Most of all? Have fun. I have little patience for those of us who get so teched-out in this form of the angling arts that their seriousness makes them a real drag to fish with……HAVE FUN!!!!!!

O.K., once again, while you’re having all that fun? Be serious enough to deeply respect what a privilege it is to be able to access and fish literally millions of acres of the world’s best fly-fishable waters. That’s a place to begin; carry that respect to the fish you pursue AND the habitats in which you find them. Be a steward, not a conspicuous consumer of North America’s (and the rest of the world’s for that matter) remaining fish and wildlife stocks. A fish that I release today, I can fish to again tomorrow.

May Happy Trails lead you to Bright Waters…..

Apache Trout, June 2011, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Arizona Trout

Average Size:

8 to 10 inches

typically less than 1 pound

Distinguishing Field Marks:

The dorsal fin of the Apache trout are unusually large in relation to its body size. Because it usually does not grow large, this trout its "parr marks" (pale oval patches along the lateral line) throughout its life.

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

Stream-dwelling Apache trout consume a diet nearly entirely of immature and adult stages of aquatic insects. In lakes they are more opportunistic in their feeding, ranging throughout the water column, and taking aquatic insects, leeches, crustaceans, and small fish.

Fly Fishing for Apache Trout:

Once again I imagine some (many?) of you wondering, “Why is this Thompson guy telling us about a fish most of us will never see?” The answer to that is a bit complicated. Mostly it is that this American native trout is now in “come-back” mode, coming back from the brink of near extirpation. This near fatal reduction in the species’ numbers was primarily the result of “sportsmen” who knew where these fish lived and had easy access to them, doing what the majority of “sportsmen” did/do when encountering an apparent abundance of any fish population, they “took their limit” as many (and probably more) times as they could. Same as Striped bass, Atlantic salmon, Bluefin tuna, Blueback trout, Bull trout, the Pacific salmons, Steelhead etc., etc. The end result of over-fishing any species is now a very well documented 20th and 21st century phenomenon. What you wind up with is too few fish to make commercial, and concurrently or eventually, sport fishing viable. Atlantic Canada has been losing its runs of large Atlantic salmon for several decades now. You can understand how a regional economy based on “plenty of fish” can suffer when those fish are all but, or even entirely (as is the case in many Maritime rivers) gone. 

Because its range is quite limited and generally rather inaccessible, the economies of this trout’s native region haven’t been that deeply effected by its decline (after all, it is a rather small trout). Nevertheless, the removal, or addition, of any species has both researched and unknown effects on its environment. Large amounts of both $s and human research and effort have gone into the restoration of the Apache trout. So this “little guy” is here included as an “indicator” species; indicating how far we have (or have not) come in our understanding and appreciation of the dwindling “natural resources” of the once vast North American continent.

As you can see, the Apache trout is found within a limited range in the U.S. Most will be found in the shallower sections of upland tributary streams where they will take imitations of any stage of whatever aquatic insects are most readily available to them at the time you’re fishing. There’s no need to tell any of you seasoned fly-fishers that a fish that rarely exceeds 10 inches in length is best approached with no more than a system 4 outfit, often set up with a long light-tippeted leader. In lakes where this trout is found, you might want either a long (10 foot) system 4 or somewhat heavier (5 or 6 wt. 9’) outfit for the purpose of casting small streamers to appeal to the Apache’s inclination to take larger foods when living in a larger body of water.

In any case, be sure to read and understand all the state and local regulations that apply to angling for this elegant little, slowly, and with lots of human TLC, coming-back-into-its-own, trout before you go thrashing around in its home waters hell-bent on filling your camp-site’s wood-heated cast iron fry pan with butter basted Apache trout. Should you ignore this advice and keep to the trout-for-the-pot way of outdoor life, you may find yourself relived of your catch, your fishing license, fishing tackle, and perhaps even your SUV, should a conservation officer find your behavior a little outside of the law.

Bottom line? It’s up to us to do whatever we can to help protect and conserve what’s left of what was once seemingly endless bounty living in our American woods and waters.

Golden Trout, May 2011, Fish of the Month!

Local Names:

Golden Trout

Average Size:

8 to 15 inches

½ to 1 pound

Distinguishing Field Marks:

Color and color pattern are reliable distinguishing field marks for this species. (See the illustration.)

Typical specimens are nearly uniform golden-yellow.

Note the pink or red band along the center of the fish's sides with bluish/purple oval vertical "parr marks."

There are only a few dark spots on the body, and these are confined to the back, above the lateral line, and on the tail.

The caudal (tail) fin is slightly forked with rounded tips.  

The anal fin has 11 or 12 rays.

North American Range:

Map to the right shows approximate range in North America.

Diet:

The diet of both juvenal and adult Golden trout is almost entirely immature and adult aquatic insects. This is supplemented by small forage fishes where and when they are available.

Fly Fishing for Golden Trout:

Even from where I sit at this computer, surrounded by un-fishably high central New York rivers and streams (for those of you who know New York’s Salmon River, it’s running at 4000 cfs.) I can sense a sigh of relief from those of you who are following this column that this month we’re focusing on an actual TROUT. But, before you get too excited, remember that, for pretty much all of us, the Golden trout is not to be found in our back yards. In fact, much of the allure of this spectacularly beautiful American original is the trekking to and from its remote high altitude habitats. These waters are nearly all above “timberline.” These ponds, small lakes, and streams provide the Golden trout a high degree of natural habitat protection which is a good thing as these alpine eco-systems are quite fragile and easily disturbed. Choice of transportation modes for accessing Golden trout are; 1. horseback, 2. hiking on foot, 3. mountain biking……take your pick. If you think of yourself as a “couch potato,” you should probably leave the Golden trout fishing to others.

O.K., you got it together to get up the chosen hill to the chosen Golden trout water. If you brought anything heavier than a 5 weight outfit, you’re over-gunned. Think “fragile habitat,” light approach. This goes for spinning as well as fly fishing. Fly fishers have been given a new lease on life for pack-in/pack-out expeditions with the continuing development of VERY user-friendly 4 (or even more) piece fly rods that, when broken down, can be very easily stored for travel and, when re-assembled, cast like standard two piece rods. 

What flies? Well, anyone who has a well-stocked arsenal of standard American trout flies, especially midges, dries, and nymphs, has the basis for successful golden trout fly fishing. Beyond that, each water where Goldens are found will have its fly selection idiosyncrasies. The only way to figure these out is to “be there.” Keep in mind that these fish can be quite fussy; come “on the take,” then “go off the take.” Patience and perseverance will be necessary for successful Golden trout fishing…….But, look at it this way; between “bites” take a camera break, or a do nothing R & R break, after all, you’ve done some pretty serious altitude ascending into what are arguably some of the most beautiful places on earth. Don’t let a 10 inch Golden trout’s refusal to bend your rod spoil your outing. And, ALWAYS remember, “Carry it in, carry it out.” Leave no trace…….