Fishing for Pink Salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) is as easy as it gets.  Millions of these salmonids migrate up B.C. river systems every other year.  In the Fraser River system, the Pink migration takes place every odd year.

There are two main knocks on fishing for Pink Salmon; they are not very good fighters, and they’re viewed as the least favorite table fair of the salmon family.  However, fishing for them can truly be fun for the whole family.  There is very little skill required, the startup cost is minimal, and these fish are very aggressive to bite while in migration to spawn.  With an average fish being four to five pounds, it beats going to the trout farm.

To achieve the most fun in catching these fish, either a fly rod or a light spinning rod and reel setup are key.  In this article I will describe how each one of these should be set up to achieve good results, and where to find these fish to ensure a pleasant day on the water.

Finding the Fish

Because Pink Salmon are so plentiful, their presence is seen near the surface.  The fish will jump and roll, indicating their presence.  In the Fraser River, the water is clean enough this time of the year that the fish will see your offering.  Just about anywhere along the banks of the Fraser where you can get to, you will be able to catch Pinks. 

I find it much more fun pursuing these fish in clean water rivers though.  The mouth of the Vedder or Harrison can be a great place to cast for Pinks. The clean water allows you to see the fish that are attacking your offering - many times more than one at a time!  Pink salmon tend to concentrate in slower, pooling waters.  Finding such spots will increase your chances of catching more fish.

Pink Salmon Fly Fishing

Virtually any old fly rod will do the trick.  As far as the fish testing the quality of your tackle, think of Pink Salmon as a four pound white fish.  These fish do not have much of a fight to them.  Generally a five or six weight rod is great.  Some anglers prefer sinking tip lines, and some use floating lines.  As far as leader length is concerned, anywhere between 15-20ft. of eight to ten pound test line will do the trick.   As far as the fly is concerned, just about anything pink will serve you well.  Pink streamers or pink wooly buggers pink work very well.  Other bright colors such as red or purple will work as well.  Use your imagination.   Hook size should be no. 4 or 6.  For the below average fly caster one of the benefits is the line does not have to go out far. (or straight)  Twenty to 30 foot cast will work.  Once your line is out, at a medium speed strip your offering back towards you. 

Spin Casting

Spin casting is another way of attracting Pink Salmon.  Using this method, there really is very little skill required.  Once again, just about any old rod will do.  Preferably a light or an ultra light rod between 5-6 ft. in length  Any old coffee grinder loaded with 8-10 lb. test line will do the trick.  At the end of your line attach a spoon.  Once again, these fish are not very picky.  A 1/4 -3/4 oz silver or brass spoon with some pink or bright red on it will work very well.  Gibbs Crocodiles (Crocs) and Dick Nites have worked for me well in the past.  Size of the spoon is not critical.  Cast out and with a slow retrieve you will attract fish.

Fishing for Pink Salmon is usually not the favorite fishery of any seasoned angler.  However, for those who don’t get out as much, or are looking to get someone who has had very limited exposure to angling exposed to the sport, this is one of the best opportunities anywhere.