OUTLOOK
We have seen cooler weather in the forecast over the last couple days and with more clear skies coming we can expect rivers to get low. There is a little rain in the forecast for today and fishing could be ok Saturday / Sunday but when we look at the next week, we are expecting cool nights and clear skies. This affects both steelheading and the egg eater fisheries. Though it's nice weather for scouting we need to look at the long-term forecast for more water to bump up levels and get the river fishing going again.
This week we have details on the Squamish and Chilliwack for those of you heading out. Jason and Matt are down in Mexico. We have already seen some fun fishing pictures so next week we are expecting an update from their time on the water while away. If you are traveling to Puerto Vallarta for a family vacation this season, they will share some tips on how you can sneak away for some time on the water.
While we don’t have a saltwater report this week the winter chinook fishing continues to be productive so take advantage of the calmer upcoming marine forecasts and get out there. We’ll have an update for you next week.
On to the report!
CLASSES AND COURSES
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Fly Fishing Egg Patterns Course
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Tying Essential Steelhead Patterns Course - 2 SPOTS OPEN
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Steelhead Float Fishing Course
https://www.pacificangler.ca/products/pacific-angler-course-steelhead-float-fishing-seminar
Introduction to Fly Tying Course - 1 SPOT OPEN
https://www.pacificangler.ca/products/pacific-angler-course-introduction-to-fly-tying-course
FRESHWATER FISHING REPORTS
Chilliwack/Vedder River Fishing Report
Things have been a bit slower on the C/V system over the past week, almost entirely due to the river dropping to a point where it is now quite low and clear. The river has also been very busy... busier than usual for this time of year for sure, which isn’t helping much either. There doesn’t appear to be any significant rainfall in the forecast for at least the next week, so the low, clear conditions are going to continue until that changes.
Of course, there are still fish around, but the suboptimal conditions and heavy angling pressure are definitely making them tight-lipped. Now is the time for fluorocarbon leaders and smaller, more subtle presentations. 8mm-12mm beads in orange, peach or red, size 2 Colorado blades, dime-nickel sized bait presentations, 2”-3" rubber worms in light pink, off-white or even natural colours, dark jigs... you get the idea. Cover water, and if there are other anglers fishing the same stretch of water as you, try to do something a bit different from them.
I’m expecting the fishing to pick up again after the next significant rainfall- the higher water will definitely get some fresh fish to push into the system, and the reduced visibility should make them more aggressive and willing to bite. Hopefully that rain comes sooner rather than later, but it’s still worth heading out there in the meantime.
Taylor Nakatani
Squamish River Fishing Report – Winter Update
The winter is peaceful on the Squamish. Fishing is slower but technical anglers can still find trout. The low and clear conditions will be the norm for the next week without any major systems forecasted, but I have some tips for success when it gets tough.
- Fluorocarbon leaders in lighter weights. This will give you the best chance at fooling a spooky fish. If I am egg fishing, I use 4-8 lb text. If I am swinging flies its usually 8-10lb for trout and 12-15lb for steelhead
- Fish the choppy water. Choppy water at the heads of runs or at a confluence provide cover. These are usually great feeding spots for trout so don’t miss them! Nymphing with heavy eggs or drifting a light float setup can be deadly here.
- Have good sunglasses. The water is clear, but a quality pair of sunglasses will help you spot fish. Bonus: This is also important to help you spot the last remaining salmon in the system. It will help you avoid foul hooking them and allow you to fish for trout behind the salmon.
- Presentation options can vary greatly but may favorites this time of gear are peach fuzz or dead eggs in 8mm. For flies try slumpbusters, and flesh flies in white and peach with hots spots of orange or pink.
- Layer up and prepare for the long haul. The morning will be cold, and the wind will be bitter. Thermal layering, quality jackets, gloves, and face coverings will keep you swinging longer. Don’t forget to throw a few hand warmers in the pack for when it gets hard to tie knots.
I was out this week and found a few trout on the swing. I think nymphing or egging might still be the most productive given the current conditions. I was amazed at how many coho where still rolling around the system. Larger runs will still have a few but do your best to leave them alone. Don’t be surprised if you hook a big angry tomato swinging or nymphing.
The roads are still snow free, so access has been great. Angling pressure is low, so you won’t see many cars up the valley. If you want to dust off the Spey rods and go for a walk this is the time. The slower pace and quiet scenery are a welcome change to the rush of salmon season and competitive nature of the rivers to the East.
Take your time - cast – swing – step - repeat.
Eric Peake
