This is the year to think pink

published by asingh on Sat, 09/14/2013 - 16:34

They’re back! Every odd-numbered year, during the month of September, millions of pink salmon begin their journey up the Fraser River towards their spawning grounds. Because they are aggressive biters and arrive in large numbers, pink salmon are relatively easy to catch - making this a great opportunity for both experienced and novice anglers.

You can fish for pink salmon in the Fraser River anywhere from Steveston to Hope. A light tackle setup is fine, as pinks are the smallest Pacific salmon and generally weigh less than six pounds (2.7 kilograms).

To catch a pink salmon, keep your spoon, spinner or fly suspended in the water just above the school of fish. Avoid having your terminal tackle drag along the riverbed.

Before heading out, make sure that you have a valid fishing licence (freshwater or tidal water, depending on where you go), and check the daily quota for the area you are fishing. And if you plan to keep some of your catch, remember to purchase a salmon conservation surcharge stamp for your licence.

For information on the Freshwater Fisheries Society of BC, more fishing tips and how to purchase a licence, visit gofishbc.com