Chehalis River, Vedder River, Fraser River's - Fred's Fishing Adventures

By Fred Helmer - Jul 19, 2003

July 19/03

Fraser River

Water levels on the Fraser have been dropping daily with conditions improving for bar fishing. The index on the test fishery has been low. Numbers will improve as we move towards August along with increasing numbers of sockeye. There is a very big concern for the Stuart run of sockeye so there is a one meter leader length restriction on bottom bouncing for the next week or so. Once the Stuart run pass we will see this restriction eliminated. Please abide by this rule or we could see the river shut down to sports angling for all salmon. Remember that you are not allowed to target or fish for sockeye even on a catch and release basis. If you do hook a Sockeye please take every effort to release these fish unharmed. Do not bring them out of the water and on to the beach. They can be released easily in the water with pliers or disgorging tools, fishing for this species is not permitted. The bottom bouncing technique will be questioned if there is a high incidence of sockeye catches, so use your good judgment over the course of the next few weeks. Bar fishing is producing for the big Chinook. Will should have an opportunity on the sockeye near the end of July.

Harrison River

This system is always a very fishable water way as the flow comes out of Harrison Lake is typically a beautiful green color. The migratory Cutthroat travel the lake and river in search for food providing anglers a venue that includes spectacular scenery and some promising fishing opportunities.

Chehalis River

Opened June 1st. A few anglers have ventured over to check on Summer Steelhead and or the possibility of some early Chinook. Water levels are lower than normal for this time of year. Not much happening at this time.

Chilliwack/Vedder River

Water levels are dropping daily on this system. The river is in great shape right now with impressive numbers of Chinook arriving since July 8th. The Chinook are spread throughout the entire river at this point with reports of catches from top to bottom including some decent fishing at the mouth of the Sumas. Most of this run is due to arrive towards the middle of July so it looks as if things are on schedule. This run is normally around 3000 pieces but we are estimating that this run may be triple this year. They just keep rolling in, so the guys are very happy with the results this week. These fish are averaging in the 15-18 pound size with some going over thirty pounds. Most of the fish have some color but they are in great shape. The flesh is firm and the strength of these fish is most impressive. Lighter leaders will get you more hook ups but often the fish are winning the battles with the light line method.

Skagit River

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