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From Jan 01, 1999 To Sep 07, 2010
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Aug 29, 2010; 03:39AM - Exellent Steelhead & Coho Fishing
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
http://www.noelgyger.ca
Weekly Fishing Reports (Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat, Prince Rupert and Meziadin North)
Noel Gyger
August 15 to August 22, 2010
Dear Fishing Friends:
SUMMARY: The heat wave is over. Temperatures near normal and no rain to speak of. Fishing for Sockeye, Chum, Steelhead, Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout and Dolly Varden Char using fly, spin and conventional gear has been good. The Skeena River has been dropping all week and is extremely low and clean. The Skeena River is a very big river so low water usually does not hurt the fishing, in some ways it improves it. Sockeye fishing is good if you know the how and where to fish for them. Limit is lowered to 1 per day, 2 in possession on August 23rd. Steelhead and Coho fishing is excellent. It is not uncommon to catch both Steelhead and Coho on the same day and throw in the odd Pink. The Kalum River is low and in good shape. Steelhead and Coho are coming in now. Kitimat River level remained very low again this week. Despite the low water level, some Coho migrated into the Kitimat River albeit a little rain would bring a lot more fish into the river. The Douglas Channel is producing excellent numbers of Halibut and Coho. The Harbour fishing is good. Crab (Dungeness and King) fishing is excellent. Check out the detailed Ron Wakita report below. The Zymoetz (Copper) River is clean. Summer-run Steelhead are moving in now. Prince Rupert reports a good Coho fishery. Lots of Halibut following the Salmon in. Meziadin Lake has been a bit of a strange week. Dollies and Rainbow, which are usually in abundant supply have been hard to locate and catch. Check out the full report from Marvin Reid below. Bulkley River is a beautiful green and very low. Chinook run is coming to and end, but still a couple being landed. Coho and Pinks and Steelhead are starting to show up. The Kispiox River is super low, fishing has been tough. The Morice River has no access because of forest fires in the area. Check out the Bob Melrose report below. This week guide reports came from Ron Wakita, Marc Girard, Mike Herzberg, Wes Owen, Dave Payjack, Gill McKean and Kevin Reid Thank you to all of the fishing guides who have sent reports and photos. It is very much appreciated!
WARNING: BEARS on all our rivers. Be Bear Aware and carry Pepper Spray. Check your spray for expiry date!
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers, Meziadin Park Store in
Meziadin Lake BC and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace.
Please visit these Tackle Shops to watch the shows!
This may be the time to book that guided fishing trip of a lifetime! A few day bookings and lodge packages are being offered at super low discount rates. Click here for details http://www.noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm
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New Items on Website
August 20, 2010 - One New item (Book Now for: discount prices for guided fishing trips)
http://www.noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm
August 18, 2010 - One New item (conservation)
http://www.noelgyger.ca/conservation.htm
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River Reports Weather - Normal temp - Sunrise & Sunset - Tyee Test Fishery – Tides -Hydrometric Data
Bulkley River
The river is a beautiful green and very low. Chinook run is coming to an end, but still a couple being landed. Coho, Pinks and Steelhead are starting to show up – report by Bob Melrose
Kalum River
The river is clean and dropping fast. I have had reports of Steelhead and Coho being caught. The run should build over the next couple of weeks. Please do NOT target the Chinook, leave them alone and let them spawn in peace.
Kispiox River
The river is super low, fishing has been tough – report by Bob Melrose
Morice River
River has no access because of forest fires in the area – report by Bob Melrose
Skeena River
The Skeena River is a very big river so low water usually does not hurt the fishing, in some ways it improves it. Sockeye fishing is good if you know the how and where to fish for them. Limit is lowered to 1 per day, 2 in possession. Steelhead and Coho
fishing is excellent. It is not uncommon to catch both Steelhead and Coho on the same day and throw in the odd Pink.
Zymoetz (Copper) River
The water is low and clean. The talk around town is of a very good run of Steelhead entering the river.
Meziadin River and Lake
Meziadin Lake has been a bit of a strange week. Dollies and Rainbow, which are usually in abundant supply have been hard to locate and catch – read the full report by Marvin Reid below.
Kasiks River
Coho will be showing up soon at the mouth where the river joins the Skeena River. We need a bump in the water to move them upriver. Some fish will be holding 1/8 mile upriver in the deepest water along the cliffs.
Exchamsiks River
Coho will be showing up soon at the mouth where the river joins the Skeena River. We need a bump in the water to move them upriver.
Babine River and Lake
The Babine Lake has been full of Sockeye fishermen since it opened on August 1st. The Babine River also has been lined up with fishermen.
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Fishing Guide and Tackle Shop Reports
Summary for Skeena and Tributaries
Fishing This Week
GOOD
Type of Fish Caught
River: Chum, Coho, Sockeye and Pink Salmon, Steelhead, Cutthroat Trout and Dolly Varden Char.
Ocean: All five species of Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness and King Crab for ocean.
Thank you for using barbless hooks! (This is a BC fishing regulation)
Largest Fish of the Week
River: no big fish reported this week. Ocean: no big fish reported this week.
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BOOKING NOW for fall Steelhead and Coho. Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price Your “dream trip” awaits. Contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca anytime…to start planning your trip. Everything will be to your entire satisfaction.
Ron Wakita: Reliable Guide and Charters, Kitimat BC
Website: www.kitimatfishingguideandcharters.com and
Home Hardware Tackle Shop E-mail wakita@telus.net Phone 250-632-1275
Kitimat River
The Kitimat River level remained very low again this week. Despite the low water level, some Coho migrated into the Kitimat River albeit a little rain would bring a lot more fish into the river.
Aug 15 Marc Girard with his friend Alice Waters landed a Coho on their afternoon drift. Marc and Alice were Hot Shotting with a Luhr Jensen http://www.rapala.ca/ Hot Shot #35. Congratulations Alice!
Aug 16 Marc Girard drifting with his wife Bonnie and their friend Alice Belado and Alice landed 2 Coho. Well done Alice! Great job Marc! Marc is having pretty good luck fishing with ladies for the early run Coho on the Kitimat River. If this trend continues, Driftboaters will just have to take their favorite ladies on the drift to have success...
Aug 17 I had the pleasure of fishing with my very good friend Mike Herzberg. Mike and I have been friends for over 25 years and have been business associates in the guiding business for 10 years. It was an awesome morning of Coho fishing. We hooked 9 Coho and landed 4. It was a lot of fun fishing together and as Mike said 'it is not only important to catch the fish, it is also about having fun and creating some fond memories with good friends'. The river conditions were excellent, the weather was great and the Coho fishing was better than we both thought it was going to be. Mike and I shared our personal theories of our superstitions and quirks. I have a 'Lucky Fish Hat' and Mike a few 'Lucky Charms' in his truck. Whether or not the Lucky Charms played a role or not, the Fish Gods smiled on 2 good friends fishing together today. Noel chose my Coho as Photo of the Week.
Aug 20 John Schikoski and Betty Benner drifted the Kitimat River and they landed 4 Coho. John and Betty have recently moved to Frazer Lake but return to the Kitimat River to fish. When John and Betty lived in Kitimat it was a common sight to see them drifting the Kitimat River in their Alumaweld Driftboat with their dog. Congratulations on your catch and it is nice to see you on the water again.
Summary: All and all, the Coho run on the Kitimat River seems to be on track to be a good year. It seems that we are seeing more early run Coho than we normally do. There also seems to be a few more late Pinks in the river than was anticipated.
The main run of Coho usually starts to show up this time of year and there were more Coho showing in the latter part of this week. I suspect that with a little rain there will be a lot of Coho in the Kitimat River.
Douglas Channel
Aug 16 Wes Owen of Golden Fishing Adventures fishing with Giorgio and Dennis Lawson landed 4 Coho and a Pink.
The Coho fishing is just starting and Wes' group enjoyed the early stages of what I think is going to be an outstanding Coho fishery in the harbour. Well done Dennis and Giorgio!
Aug 17 Ken Craven reports fishing with Lucy Slykerman and her niece Allison Green from Windsor, Ontario. Allison caught her first Salmon 17August. Nice Coho Allison! Good fishing on a calm sunny day near Cleo Bay.' Congratulations to you all.
Aug 17 Dave Payjack of Seawest Adventures reports, 'here is a picture of client Dallas with his father Bryan and brother Clint. We had a great day on the water and man was it ever hot!!! We landed 3 chinook, 4 coho and 17 Pacific cod and a feed of crab. We were fishing around Fishtrap area when we got into the big cod. It was very nice to hook into so many that were way above average size.” Congratulations to you and your clients! Anyone wishing to book a trip with Dave please contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca
Aug 18 Wes Owen fishing with his clients Valerie Michel, her son Matt and Rollie Sarabun landed 3 Coho in the Kitimat Harbour. The wind picked up a bit but Rollie said, 'they had a great day on the Douglas Channel'. Wes commented that Valerie pointed out that her son Matt had a huge smile on his face. That was the most important part of the trip for her. It is not very often that I have the honor of reporting a Mother and son enjoying the passion of fishing.
Thank You for letting us play a role in creating some fond family memories. Sorry no photos.
Aug 19 Wes Owen fishing with his clients Kelly Kelsey and her Mom and Dad landed 3 Coho in the Kitimat Harbour. My apologies for not reporting their names. It appears that this week is Dad/daughter week to be fishing the Douglas Channel. And Mom too! Great news! Good for you folks. Kelsey's parents joined Kelsey in Kitimat to fish with us all the way from Texas. Wow! Wes said that 'everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves'. Well done everyone!
Summary: The outer waters of the Douglas Channel continue to produce outstanding numbers of Coho. Many of the boaters that are going out with 4 anglers on over night trips are returning with their 2 day limit of 32 Coho. Halibut is also very good but most boaters are focusing on the Coho.
The Kitimat Harbour fishery is starting to pick up as the Coho migrate up to the Kitimat end of the Douglas Channel.
If the catch results on the outer waters are an indication of what we can expect in the Kitimat Harbour, we are going to have a good season in the harbour.
We still have available days on our driftboat trips, jetboat trips and saltwater trips. Any interested anglers please contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca
Thank You to everyone for contributing photos and info for this fishing report.
Sincerely and Cheers
Ron Wakita
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Gill McKean: Westcoast Fishing Adventures, Terrace BC and rivers north.
Hi Noel, fishing is great right now on the Skeena River. Water is in perfect shape. It is possible now to catch Steelhead, Coho and Pink on the same day. WOW. Lots of fun!
The following are special deals I am offering for a limited time.
NEW! I am offering a 'Super Special' FULL DAY guided Drift-Boat fishing trip on the Skeena and Kitimat Rivers! Maximum 4 per boat. Please contact Noel for details and prices noel@noelgyger.ca
NEW! I am offering a “Super Special” FULL DAY guided Jet-Boat fishing trip on Skeena and Tributary Rivers! Maximum 4 per boat. Please contact Noel for details and prices noel@noelgyger.ca
NEW! I am offering a “Super Special” TWO FULL DAYS guided Jet-boat fishing trip on rivers north. Minimum two persons required to do this trip. Maximum four persons. This trip involves lots of travel so one overnight is required. Guests are responsible for their own meals and accommodations. Please contact Noel for details and prices noel@noelgyger.ca
Tight Lines
Gill McKean
Fishing is our addiction - Guiding is our passion - Adventure is in our blood
This may be the time to book that guided fishing trip of a lifetime! A few day bookings and lodge packages are being offered at super low discount rates. Click here for details http://www.noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm
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Jason Munday: Fish Tales Tackle Shop, Terrace BC
Hello Noel, Chinook fishing is over. Let em spawn! More and more reports are coming in reporting Steelhead and Coho being caught. As one fishery comes to an end another takes its place! You gotta love this region for its run after run of fish all year long. Sockeye, Pink, Coho and Steelhead are gearing up! So get out there and have FUN!
Out of town orders are always welcome. Come in for a coffee anytime.
Cheers!
Jason Munday
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Marvin Reid: Meziadin and Northern BC
Hi Noel, It has been a bit of a strange week for fishing at Meziadin Lake. Dollies and Rainbow, which are usually in abundant supply, have been very hard to locate, not to mention, to actually catch. We have spent quite a few hours on the lake this past week, with very little to show for our efforts. To make it even more confusing, I am unable to identify the fish that we were able to land (see pic below)
It is not something I have ever seen before, at least a fish of this colour. Anyone have an opinion or want to guess?
The commercial salmon fishery on the Meziadin is over and the targeted amount of Sockeye have been harvested.
The other good news is that fresh Sockeye continue to enter the Meziadin system which means that chances are still good, that bright fish can be caught for awhile yet.
Meziadin Lake Provincial Park will be closing on Sept 22nd, and the gate will be locked. The boat launch that is located on the Meziadin River will also be inaccessible, as it is on private property, and the road leading to it will be gated as well.
I am now the operator of Meziadin Lake Provincial Park, as well as operating the Park which has a Store, and wireless internet to all sites. We also offer Travel Trailer Rentals to persons wishing to enjoy the outdoor experience.
I do guided fishing trips on Meziadin and other local lakes along Highway 37.
Meziadin if not the best lake in Northwest BC for Dolly Varden and Bull Trout, up to 11 lbs, must be very close to the top of the list. I supply all rods, tackle and bait. Care of catch and cleaning.
Trips can be booked noel@noelgyger.ca by the hour or by the day. I use a 19ft Harbercraft powered by a 75 Yamaha.
Best regards, Marvin Reid
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Bob Melrose: Oscars Source for Sports, Smithers BC
Value Added
This is an update of a column I wrote last year. It is worth repeating
In over 50 years of selling outdoor equipment, and especially fishing tackle, I have come to realize that most of the things I have learned I have learned from the customers that frequent the tackle shops. They are the real experts as they live their passion and play it forward.
As a boy growing up in Southern Alberta, I hung around the tackle shops listening to the tales told by the people who were in the field and streams every chance they could get. Like a sponge I absorbed every little bit of info I could. Gradually, and with the mentoring of many individuals, I built up a strong foundation for pursuing fish and game throughout Alberta, Montana and later BC.
The tackle shops and its denizens are where I found new spots to fish, how to get there, the right gear, the best time etc. It is where I was shown new knots, new tackle, new methods and met many new friends. If the customers felt you were worthy, they shared new hot spots with you, hoping that you would zealously guard some of the more fragile spots and that you judiciously gave out some of the info you learned.
Many of the most memorable fishing trips I have been on, came about because of a tip from a fellow angler, who was willing to share a spot or method. That is what I love about fishing. It is a journey, not a destination. If you have an open mind, there is always a chance to learn. Even though I have sold tackle for 50+ years I am still learning from the many anglers who fish the fabled waters of Central and Northern BC.
When I am fishing a new area I always make time to acquaint myself with the local shop, get some recommendations, and add a little gear to my arsenal. I spent a couple of weeks in the great waters of Yellowstone and Montana fishing. The shops were extremely helpful on giving me the exact info I needed to make the trip a huge success. If I had tried to do it myself I would not have had anywhere near the success.
In my early years of chasing Salmon and Steelhead the tackle shops in Smithers, Terrace, Prince Rupert and Kitimat clued me in quickly. Instead of blindly thrashing around I was fishing and recognizing productive water in a very short time. The info they gave me was invaluable in making those first forays successful. Because those first trips were successful my love for these beautiful fish became a lifelong passion.
Over the years we have seen many advances in gear. Graphite rods, fluorocarbon lines, downriggers, depthfinders, ultraviolet lures, fish attractants, fly line technology, braided line, and new lures have all changed fishing, but one thing has remained the same. We learn about the new gear and can talk to someone about that gear at your knowledgeable speciality tackle shop. They are the front line in passing along that new info and helping you to make use of the new advances.
Having current info is especially important in regards to the various Salmon and Steelhead situations. What is running, how are the water conditions, what are the best lures or methods, special restrictions, licence requirements, regulations etc? If the shop staff is busy you may have to wait to get your questions answered but it is time well spent. No sense rushing up to a river only to find it blown out or closed for some reason, or the fish have not arrived. There are ways to get the info you need, and being considerate and patient is the way to go. I have had anglers over the years interrupt me with a customer and thrust a map at me with an order to mark all my favourite holes. Not recommended for best results. There are some spots in the US where books have been written with maps showing where to stand on rock 'X' and cast to 'Y'. Thankfully no such books are available here. In an age of instant gratification, thank God, we don't need that on our streams. The river is like a woman and she gives up her secrets slowly, and then, only to the most patient and worthy lover.
I have met the best people in the outdoors through the tackle shops and learned a great deal from them. Cultivate your friendship with your tackle shop and support them. Of course they sell tackle but more important they value your continued business and trust in making your trips afield an enjoyable one.
Your local pro shop is 'value added'. They don't charge extra for the right info. They are there to help, feel free to ask questions. Be patient if they are busy or approach them at slack times. They talk fishing and you should listen.
This Value Added is not only applicable to the shops but also to the Guides. There are many guys who can find fish in the easy spots and when there are lots of fish. The good guides can find fish in the tough situations. When the river is high, dirty, low or crowded is when the experienced guides shine, and give you your moneys worth. Years on the water and every day experience, assure you of the best possible outcome. I have learned many valuable lessons from the guides over the years. New casts, holes, flies to try, areas to fish, methods, and sometimes, and maybe the most important new, and lifetime friends. They are on the water every day. Come to think of it, that is where I would like to be.
Prince Rupert Excellent Coho fishing in the Rupert area. Dundas, Work Channel Eddy Pass, Stephens Island, Tree Nobs, Humpback Bay with anchovy in holders, blue and green hoochies, and Coyote http://www.rapala.ca/ spoons, Apex. Lots of Halibut following the salmon in.
Kispiox River River is super low, fishing has been tough.
Bulkley River Water is a beautiful green and very low. Chinook run is coming to an end, but still a couple being landed. Coho and Pinks and Steelhead are starting to show up.
Morice River No access to the river because of forest fires in the area.
Be Bear Aware and carry Pepper Spray. Check your spray for expiry date!!!
Enjoy your weekend.
Bob Melrose
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Product Profile
Gibbs-Delta www.gibbsfishing.com
Gibbs | Catching, not just fishing
Welcome to Gibbs/Nortac, makers of Quality Fishing Tackle
Established in 1908 by Rufus Gibbs, they are Canada’s largest manufacturer of fishing lures, landing nets, sinkers and accessories for both saltwater and freshwater use. They currently manufacture over 7000 different products at their plant in British Columbia.
Dodgers Dimple Dodger; Herring Dodger
Flashers Farr Better Flasher; Highlighner Flasher; Skipper Flasher; Sockeye Flasher
Jigging Lures Cod jig; Depth Charge; FloorWalker; Minnow; Mudraker
Lake Trolls BMW; Cowichan; Jumbo Willow Leaf; Lake Special; Willow Leaf
Nets Landing Many Nets including the famous “catch & release net'
Spinners Sil-Vex; Wedding Band; Willow Leaf Spoon
Trolling Lures Clendon Stewart; FST; Gator; Gypsy Spoon; Hockey Stick; Ruby Lake; Stewart Spoon; Super Diamond Spoon; Wonder Spoon
Wobblers Croc; Ironhead; Kit_A_Mat; Koho; One eyed Wiggler; Ruby Eyed Wiggler; Ruby Set; Toronto Wobbler
Note: the above tackle are all 'trade marked' 'TM'
Gibbs Delta Dealers in the Northwest: City Centre Hardware and Sporting Goods in Kitimat, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace
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Fishing Regulations
2009-2011 BC tidal waters and non-tidal (Federal) Salmon fishing information:
www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfish
Effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011
2009-2011 Freshwater (Provincial) Fishing Regulations Synopsis:
www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish
Effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011 (Note: regs good for two years)
Regulation Change
Sockeye July 14 – August 22, 2010 2 per day. August 23 – September 15, 2010 1 per day
In other words:
Fishery Notice
“Effective 00:01 hours Monday, August 23, until 23:59 hours Wednesday, September 15 the daily limit for sockeye salmon has been decreased to 1/day from 2/day in the following waters:”
The mainstem waters of the Skeena River from the mouth upstream to a point immediately above the confluence with the Babine River.
Anglers are reminded of the sockeye non-retention area on the Skeena River near the mouth of the Kitwanga River as marked by boundary signs.
The possession limit for sockeye salmon is twice the daily limit.
Variation Order No: 2010-354
For More Information
Mark Reagan, Resource Manager-Recreational Fisheries
North Coast Area
Phone (250) 627-3409”
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Stolen Boat
Hello Noel. Would it be possible to have a space in the next fishing report to inform your readers of the theft of a 10 foot Fish Cat pontoon boat stolen from Radley Park in Kitimat on July 31, 2010? Unfortunately, myself and my fishing partner were enjoying a day fishing on the ocean when the theft occurred from my friends campsite (the boat was secured during this time). I realize theft is not limited to bigger or more frequented areas, it just hits home more when occurring in my backyard or of course, when unsuspecting of same.
This is also a warning that we take safety for granted when leaving our boats while getting rides back up to our launch area of the day. This boat will be recognizable to many co anglers on the Kitimat River as we have been enjoying this sport for the past years here.
Please contact me at cell 250-641-7608 or home 250-632-3254 for any information that the readers may have.
Sincerely, Wendy Onofrechuk
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Electronic Voice can read this report to you – here’s how:
This needs to be done through Adobe Reader so I suggest you save the PDF file on your desktop and open with Adobe Reader. Go to top left where you see “View”. Click on “View” and scroll to the bottom of the menu list and select “Read Out Loud”. Then go back to “View” and scroll down again to “Read Out Loud” where you can choose 1) Read This Page only or 2) Read to the End of Document. Click on one and sit back and let the electronic voice read the report to you.
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Chinook Video clips for 2010 season
The following are YouTube links. To watch in the highest quality “full screen” mode choose setting of 480p
June 17 32-pound Kitimat River Chinook Plays for 2:45
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfe0sBRphc0
June 22 Kitimat Chinook Adventure Plays for 4:03
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dMk5oWOs1tE
July 8 CLACKACRAFT Kitimat Chinook Plays for 2:10
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eKleEU9bcMg
July 27 Skeena River King Salmon Plays for 3:01
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9eQ66zFP14
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Steelhead run this year is:
Just glancing over the Tyee Index for Steelhead as of August 12th, and must say the numbers look encouraging. The 1998-2002 seasons were the glory years, and those of you fishing then probably have many fond memories of that period. The numbers this year show the closest to those wonderful times over the last ten years.
Of course, a lot of things can happen, and often do when it comes to fishing. But by nature anglers are more glass half full than glass half empty people and time on the river is really never wasted. As Roderick Haig-Brown so wisely said 'If fishing is just an excuse to be close to rivers, I'm glad I thought of it.' So, if the numbers look good, we think it is going to be good, and we always go out there optimistically – info courtesy Bob Melrose
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Jet Boaters be safe
A good set of oars and oar locks is not just for drift-boaters. The smartest thing you can do is install a good set of oars and oar locks in your jet-boat and learn how to use them. If your engine quits just snap in your oars and turn your jet boat into a drift boat and either row to shore or float to the boat launch. I have had to do this a few times myself when I was guiding. I’ve seen too many jet boats and all they have is puny paddles. One person with one paddle is useless and even two persons with two paddles is difficult to control a large or even a small jet boat. Throw those paddles away and get yourself a good set of oars and oar locks. Do it now! It may save your life. Drifting out of control into a log jam or boulders is no fun. Contact me anytime noel@noelgyger.ca and I will be happy to give you tips on how to row your jet boat.
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Guest Reports and Photos
*** If any of you have special fishing photos, testimonials, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them.
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Catch and Release Formula
Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches)
Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches)
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Marketplace
Contact me noel@noelgyger.ca anytime to post your items. There is no charge for a posting. Here are the latest postings:
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Fiberglass Fish Reproductions
This 42 x 23.5 inch Steelhead was estimated to weigh 30-pounds. There are many sizes and positions available, and pretty much any species. Call Carey Braun anytime at 250-639-3769 and he will be happy to build one for you. Yes, that’s Carey in the photo. Place your order NOW
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Real Estate
SOLD Terrace, BC Beautiful 3300sq ft Log House on the Banks of the Skeena River 5 min. west from Downtown Terrace, BC. Situated on .75 of an acre and built in the early 70s before setback rules and is only 20 ft from the bank of the River, but out of the floodplain. There is a trail leading down to a bench where you can tie up your boat most of the year. Completely renovated house including new doors, windows, plumbing, and electrical, & is like a brand new house. It has 4 bedrooms (possible 5th) and 2 1/2 baths and two natural stone fireplaces. There is also a 22 X 32 shop & a double carport. Very private and quiet, just the sound of the river. Contact Noel Gyger for more photos and info noel@noelgyger.ca
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Terrace, BC This property is a ten minute drive from the Terrace/Kitimat Airport part way between Terrace and Kitimat. Near Mount Layton Hot springs, within 45 minutes of internationally acclaimed Shames Mountain, 15 minutes from 18 Holes at the Skeena Valley Golf Club, and central in all directions from world class salmon fishing, mountain biking, hiking or kayaking. This property features over 400 feet of sandy beachfront. While approximately 25 acres is left forested, the balance has been levelled and prepared for your dream home, or potential development. This property is home to local wildlife, including Moose, Deer, and perhaps the occasional Spirit Bear, plus countless smaller mammals and birds. This property is truly a one of a kind natural treasure. Properties of this quality rarely become available, act now! Contact Noel for more info. noel@noelgyger.ca
Rick McDaniel Re/Max of Terrace
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Terrace, BC With over 3200 feet of river front, panoramic mountain views, beautiful natural spring on the property, mobile home and guest cabin, barn, stable, workshop, gardens, a 5 1/2 acre area that was formerly a vegetable growing plot that supplied the local area and has been fallow for several years now. May be organically certifiable. Pick your fishing spot along the riverfront, with several different good looking options available. Clear views of the Seven Sisters range, plus mountains to the East, West and South as well. Located 76 KM East of Terrace this is literally a piece of Paradise on Earth. The balance of the property carries up the ridge toward the majestic peaks on the South side of Highway 16. Perfect as a small farm or build your dream home. Contact Noel for more info, maps and more photo's noel@noelgyger.ca
Rick McDaniel Re/Max of Terrace
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Smithers BC - 8 terraced acres of Bulkley River Waterfront. Experience the advantage of natures tranquility only 20 minutes from downtown Smithers, BC. Prime building lot awaits your ideas for development. Proven year round water source. Boat launch access for world class fishing, kayaking, rafting, etc. School bus service available. Recreation waterfront and privacy all at your door step. Contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca for detail and more photo's.
Chris Timms Calderwood Realty Ltd of Smithers
Kispiox BC - Fishing paradise out your back door, world record steelhead were caught in this fishing hole. 24 acres of rare Kispiox Riverfront and host to the 'Cottonwood Hole'. Level, benched property part. Flood plain. Value of old homestead at buyers discretion. Prettiest small parcel in the valley. Contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca for detail and more photo's.
Chris Timms Calderwood Realty of Smithers
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Wanted to Buy
I have a client who is interested in property of 5-10 acres or larger on the Skeena River or one of the tribs, not too far out from Terrace BC. Need winter access, hydro and phone connection, or at least wireless coverage. He wants to be able to walk down to the river with his Spey rod and fish, so Skeena 4 would be ideal, but no farther than USK. If you have larger acreage that is sub-dividable to suit my client please Contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
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Contact me anytime noel@noelgyger.ca to post your FOR SALE river or ocean front property. Retirement folks from around the world are looking for this type of investment where they can fish the rest of their lives and still be close to home! There is NO charge for a posting. My FISHING REPORT AND WEBSITE has world wide reach. Monthly average: over 600,000 server requests handled.
View current postings http://www.noelgyger.ca/recreation-retirement-waterfront.htm
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B&B’s For Sale
Sooke, BC Ocean Wilderness Inn This breathtaking 4.6 acre oceanfront property boasts a private setting with small creek towering trees and lots of wildlife for photographers and nature lovers. The beautiful walk on waterfront is almost a full mile of private beach. The home offers 9 very large bedrooms with large bathrooms. The fir floors blend into the log theme of the home, everyone who visits feels at ease in this comfortable home. Current owners have done extensive renovations to keep the property in top condition. The home has been featured in several publications and is well known for its great meals, crystal clear water, spectacular gardens and customer service. Enjoy spectacular views from the hot tub. Just a few minutes drive to fabulous salmon fishing and surfing beaches. Contact Noel Gyger for more info noel@noelgyger.ca
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Quadra Island, BC Moon Shadows B&B 4500 square foot home on an acre of beautiful gardens, lots of room for toys in barn and storage shed. What a wonderful life choice with the ocean at your door step and fabulous Islands and inlets to discover while sailing or kayaking, fabulous fishing, clamming and oysters. Just a wonderful way to enjoy life while raising your family. Home is fully operational as a B&B, and is being sold with all furnishings, bedding and kitchen tools as the current owners are leaving the province. Contact Noel for more info noel@noelgyger.ca
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Sooke, BC Coopers Cove Guest House Beautifully appointed 6 bedroom 7 bathroom waterfront B&B. This spectacular B&B was featured on Oprah for its gourmet cooking classes. Fabulous large professional kitchen, wonderful grounds complete with herb and vegetable gardens, and two hot tubs. Home is steps from the Galloping Goose Trail leading into the heart of Victoria. Contact Noel for more info noel@noelgyger.ca
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This may be the time to book that guided fishing trip of a lifetime! A few day bookings and lodge packages are being offered at super low discount rates. Click here for details http://www.noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm
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Boats for Sale
Price reduced to $10,500
For Sale: Custom 15 foot all welded aluminum Jet boat: 2000 Johnson 40 jet power with power trim stainless steel impeller (and stock aluminum impeller) 8 degree hull with tunnel. Center consol. Front fishing platform with storage. 3 Rod holders. 1 Scotty down rigger. Hummingbird 520 fish finder, Karavan trailer. One owner, never used for guiding. Turn key ready. $11,500 obo. Phone 250-635-4007 ask for Jamie.
For Sale or Lease: 1997 24' Ali-Craft jet-boat & boat trailer: $35,000 (will cost you over $60K new) For complete listing details and contact info please click here http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/june-17_2010-gary-miltenberger.doc (to read a Microsoft Word Document .doc)
For Sale: 16' Fiberglass Dory and Trailer: $6,500 (will cost you $8-9K new) Very well maintained. Comes with anchor, anchor rope, life jackets (up to six), fish box, 10' ash oars, and spare new trailer tire. Has water-tight, lockable dry storage under the front seat also has dry storage under the bow. Knee braces at the bow, for standing & fighting fish while floating downstream. Current owner will deliver anywhere in northwestern BC. May be viewed at Meziadin Lake. Will consider a new model quad in good condition as trade. Contact Gary Miltenberger, e-mail only: gmiltenb@gmail.com Sorry, I don't have a phone.
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To view the items currently listed please cast to: http://www.noelgyger.ca/market-place.htm
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GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report
E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
Home Page: www.noelgyger.ca
Fishing Reports: www.noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htm Gyger soon. noel@noelgyger.ca |
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Aug 19, 2010; 01:40AM - North West BC Fishing
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
http://www.noelgyger.ca
Weekly Fishing Reports (Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat, Prince Rupert and Meziadin North)
Noel Gyger
August 8 to August 15, 2010
Dear Fishing Friends:
SUMMARY: We are in a heat wave. Highs on Saturday expected to reach 34° C or approx. 86° F. Fishing for Sockeye, Chum, Steelhead, Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout and Dolly Varden Char using fly, spin and conventional gear has been fair to poor depending where you are fishing. The Skeena River has been dropping all week and is extremely low but fairly clean. The Skeena River is a very big river so low water usually does not hurt the fishing, in some ways it improves it. Sockeye fishing is good if you know the how and where to fish for them. Limit 2 per day, 4 in possession. Steelhead and Coho fishing is excellent. It is not uncommon to catch both Steelhead and Coho on the same day and throw in the odd Pink. The Kalum River is in good shape. Steelhead and Coho are coming in now. The Kitimat River is exceptionally low. 20 foot high tides have moved Coho into the river. Pink and Chum fishing remains fair to poor. The Douglass Channel is producing excellent numbers of Halibut and Coho. The Harbour fishing is starting to improve. Crab (Dungeness and King) fishing is excellent. Check out the detailed Ron Wakita report below. The Zymoetz (Copper) River is clean enough to fish. Summer-run Steelhead are moving in and the fly fishermen are trying to catch them. Prince Rupert reports a good Coho fishery. Good Halibut fishing with bait or jigs. Meziadin still has a few bright Sockeye entering the system. The total Salmon count has been in the 85,000 range. Creek levels are very low. Check out the full report from Marvin Reid below. The Bulkley River is super low. Some nice Chinook are still being caught. Coho and Pinks are moving in. A couple of Steelhead have already been caught. The Kispiox River water is clear, but it is so low that it is really tough fishing and fish will have a tough time making it over the gravel bar at the mouth of the river. The Babine Lake and River Sockeye fishery is in full swing. Check out the Bob Melrose report below. This week guide reports came from Ron Wakita, Dustin Kovacvich, Ariel Kuppers, Marc Girard, John of Blue Heron Charters, David Payjack, Wes Owen, Andi Handl, Gill McKean, Marvin Reid, Alex Blix and Jeff Langley. Thank you to all of the fishing guides and anglers who have sent reports and photos. It is very much appreciated!
WARNING: BEARS on all our rivers. It is their time of the year. A smart angler is very BEAR AWARE and carries PEPPER SPRAY! Make sure your can of spay is NOT outdated.
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using
a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers, Meziadin Park Store in Meziadin Lake BC and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace.
Please visit these Tackle Shops to watch the shows!
This may be the time to book that guided fishing trip of a lifetime! A few day bookings and lodge packages are being offered at super low discount rates. Click here for details http://www.noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm
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Aug 12, 2010; 03:40AM - Year End Chinook Fishing
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
Weekly Fishing Reports (Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat, Prince Rupert and Meziadin North)
Noel Gyger
August 1 to August 8, 2010
Dear Fishing Friends:
SUMMARY: Weather has been good. Temperatures were very hot (28-29 degrees Celsius) until Friday. It is cooler on the weekend with rain showers. Fishing for Sockeye, Chum, Steelhead, Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout and Dolly Varden Char using fly, spin and conventional gear has been fair. The Skeena River is on the rise and dirty, mostly from the Zymoetz (Copper) River run off. The Chinook (King) Salmon fishery closed August 7th for another year in a zone from Lakelse River mouth upstream to the Skeena River overpass (new Hwy 16 bridge) at Ferry Island. Sockeye fishing is slow due to the coloured water. Limit 2 per day, 4 in possession. I’ve had reports of a few Steelhead caught also. The Kalum River is in good shape. The whole river is now closed for Chinook. Soon the Coho and summer-run Steelhead will be coming. The Kitimat River is closed now for Chinook. Chums, Pinks, Sockeye and Coho are in the river. Chum are 2 per day limit, Pinks are closed at the moment. There are more Coho showing up. Watch out for bears on all our rivers. Pepper spray should be carried! Thank you to Bob Melrose for this important “safety” tip. Now in the Douglas Channel is one of the few times during the year you can catch Halibut in the Kitimat Harbour. The outer waters of the Douglas Channel are producing exceptional numbers of Coho and bottom fish. A 74-pound Halibut was weighed in at Home Hardware Tackle Shop. See pic below. Crab (Dungeness and King) fishing is excellent. Check out the detailed Ron Wakita report below. The Zymoetz (Copper) River is mud dirty but that should not stop the summer-run Steelhead from coming in. Prince Rupert has excellent Coho fishing now. There are still a few Chinook but mainly the Coho and Pinks. Bottom fishing is good as there are so many places to fish out of Prince Rupert. A 103-pound Halibut was landed last week. Meziadin Lake fishing seems to have slowed down a bit as most angling effort over the past few weeks has been focused on Sockeye, not Dollies and Rainbows. Check out the full report from Marvin Reid below. The Bulkley River is green, but a little murky. People are still getting Chinook but Coho and Pinks should be coming soon. The Kispiox River water is very low and clear. Locals have never seen the river so low. The Babine Lake has been full of Sockeye fishermen since it opened on August 1st. The Babine River also has been lined up with fishermen. Check out the detailed Bob Melrose report below. Cranberry River is fishing fair for Chinook. This week guide reports came from Ron Wakita, Marc Girard, Tracey Hittel, Gill McKean, Marvin Reid, Wes Owen, Serge Carignan and Jeff Carlson. Thank you to all of the fishing guides and anglers who have sent reports and photos. It is very much appreciated!
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers, Meziadin Park Store in Meziadin Lake BC and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace.
Please visit these Tackle Shops to watch the shows!
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New Items on Website
July 22, 2010 (two weeks ago) One FOR SALE: (Beautiful Log House on Skeena River waterfront 5 minutes from downtown Terrace)
http://www.noelgyger.ca/recreation-retirement-waterfront.htm
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River Reports Weather - Normal temp - Sunrise & Sunset - Tyee Test Fishery – Tides – Hydrometric Data
Bulkley River
The river is green, but a little murky. We had some rain last night that may bump up the water level and get some more fish coming in. People are still getting Chinook, but Coho and Pinks should be coming in soon – report by Bob Melrose
Kalum River
The river is now closed for Chinook (King) Salmon. The BIG Chinook are left alone to spawn without anymore fishing pressure. Soon the Coho Salmon will be coming into the river. I guess a few summer-run Steelhead will be coming in also but as far as I know most of the Steelhead are a fall run…coming in around September, October and November.
Kispiox River
Locals have never seen the river so low. Fishing has been tough because of the low, warm water. Great for swimming but not so great for fishing. Sockeye are in and a few Coho have been seen – report by Bob Melrose
Morice River
Water is low and clear. Fishing has been slow – report by Bob Melrose
Skeena River
The Skeena River is dirty, mostly from the Zymoetz (Copper) River run off. The Chinook (King) Salmon fishery closed August 7th for another year in a zone from Lakelse River mouth upstream to the Skeena River Overpass (new Hwy 16 bridge) at Ferry Island. Sockeye fishing is slow due to the coloured water. Limit 2 per day, 4 in possession. I’ve had reports of a few Steelhead caught also
Zymoetz (Copper) River
The water is dirty.
Meziadin River and Lake
Meziadin Lake fishing seems to have slowed down a bit as most angling effort over the past few weeks has been focused on Sockeye, not Dollies and Rainbows – see report by Marvin Reid
Kasiks River
Coho will be showing up soon at the mouth where the river joins the Skeena River.
Exchamsiks River
Coho will be showing up soon at the mouth where the river joins the Skeena River.
Babine River and Lake
The Babine Lake has been full of Sockeye fishermen since it opened on August 1st. The Babine River also has been lined up with fishermen. Check out the detailed Bob Melrose report below.
Fishing Guide and Tackle Shop Reports
Summary for Skeena and Tributaries
Fishing This Week
FAIR
Type of Fish Caught
River: Chum, Coho, Sockeye and Pink Salmon, Steelhead, Cutthroat Trout and Dolly Varden Char.
Ocean: All five species of Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness and King Crab for ocean.
Thank you for using barbless hooks! (This is a BC fishing regulation)
Largest Fish of the Week
River: 40-pound Chinook on the Kitimat River. 55-pound Chinook Skeena River. Ocean: 74-pound Halibut Douglas Channel. 103-pound Halibut out of Prince Rupert.
BOOKING NOW for fall Steelhead and Coho. Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price Your “dream trip” awaits. Contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca anytime…to start planning your trip. Everything will be to your entire satisfaction.
Ron Wakita: Reliable Guide and Charters, Kitimat BC
Website: www.kitimatfishingguideandcharters.com and
Home Hardware Tackle Shop E-mail wakita@telus.net Phone 250-632-1275
Kitimat River
Kitimat River in Kitimat area air temperatures were incredibly hot early in the week. It was so hot that a few anglers abandoned their fishing rods and jumped into the river to cool off. The hole below the Haisla Bridge became a popular swimming hole. Due to the extreme heat many anglers preferred to fish in the early morning and in the evening.
Aug 1 My son Brandon and I drifted with my very good friend Doug Rumley. We hooked a bunch of Pinks and a Chum with our Spey Rods. Brandon was using a Loomis http://www.gloomis.com/ GLX 14' 9/10 Dredger Rod with an Islander http://www.islander.com/ LX4.5 Fly Reel. Doug was using a Sage 9150 Rod. These were a bit heavy for Pinks but the 'right tools for the job' for Chum and Chinook.
Aug 2 Marc Girard fishing with his daughter Chrissy and his future son-in-law Johnny Southwick, landed 1 Coho, 1 Jack Chinook, 10 Chum and 4 Pinks during their drift. Wow! Congratulations on a great day of fishing! Special Congratulations to Chrissy and Johnny on their engagement!
Summary: Chinook retention closed on the Kitimat River last weekend unceremoniously as there were no big Chinook in the last hours of the opening.
Chum stocks to date appear to be low this year especially in the lower Kitimat River below Haisla Bridge. The only hole that has produced Chum consistently this week was the gravel bar below the Kitimat Hatchery. The other lower Kitimat River holes produced Pink and Chum sporadically. The upper Kitimat has pockets of Chum and Pinks stacked up but they seem to be a little difficult to entice to take a lure. Fly anglers have reported better success than the lures during the mid afternoon sun.
Pink stocks on the Kitimat River have been disappointing to many anglers. Those who have experienced the exceptional fishing for Pinks in the last few years have had to hone their fishing skills to catch their share of Pinks this season. The Pink closure may be what is needed to rebuild the stocks. Please release the Pinks with care.
Chum remains open to 2 per day over 30cms. Coho is open to 4 per day, 2 over 50cms. There were 4 more Coho reported this week and many anglers are waiting anxiously for the Kitimat River Coho season. It is still early for Coho on the Kitimat River but with the Gill Net fishery for Chum curtailed we may see more than average numbers of early run Coho in the coming weeks.
Douglas Channel
Aug 4 Merv aboard his boat the 'Fantesea' reports catching Coho and Chinook in Fish Trap bay down the Douglas Channel. Merv's son also caught a Halibut in Fish Trap. I apologize for not mentioning all the names of the anglers but I did not have them at the time of this report. Congratulations on your catch.
Aug 5th Wes Owen caught a 10lb Coho trolling in front of Kitimaat Village in the Kitimat Harbour. Wes is always doing some pre client trips in preparation for clients we have booked for later in the month. Wes was using a Luhr Jensen http://www.rapala.ca/ Abe and Al #1 flasher with an Anchovie inserted into a Rhys Davis Anchovie head.
Anyone wishing to book a trip with Wes, please contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca
Aug 6 Tony Dunn weighed in a 74lb Halibut in our Home Hardware Instore Derby. Tony caught this Halibut just below Coste Rocks in the Kitimat Harbour. This is one of the few times during the year when anglers can catch Halibut in the Kitimat Harbour. Congratulations Tony!
Summary: The outer waters of the Douglas Channel are producing exceptional numbers of Coho. One charter boat reports boating 24 Coho with his clients and their limit of Halibut. Other boaters reported similar results fishing the outer waters of the Douglas Channel. With each tide more Coho will migrate into the Kitimat end of the Douglas Channel. Some boaters have already started to catch Coho at Jesse Falls. It is shaping up to be an outstanding Coho season.
Halibut and bottom fish catch numbers are also starting to increase in inner waters of the Douglas Channel. It is an exciting time to be fishing the Douglas Channel where you can catch Halibut and Coho on the same day.
We still have available days on our driftboat trips, jetboat trips and saltwater trips. Any interested anglers please contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca
Thank You to everyone for contributing photos and info for this fishing report.
Sincerely and Cheers
Ron Wakita
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Gill McKean: Westcoast Fishing Adventures, Terrace BC and rivers north.
NEW! I am offering a 'Super Special' FULL DAY guided Chinook Drift-Boat fishing on the Skeena and Kitimat Rivers! Maximum 3 per boat.
Please contact Noel for the detail and prices. noel@noelgyger.ca
Tight Lines
Gill McKean
Fishing is our addiction - Guiding is our passion - Adventure is in our blood
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Tracey Hittel: Kitimat Lodge, Kitimat BC
Hello Noel from the Kitimat heat wave, 35c is the normal temperature here these days and the camels are loving every minute of it, or is it a mirage. Well the 55lber in picture 1 (See Photo of the Week) is real as life as our latest guest from Grande Prairie Alberta set the hook on this Skeena Monster yesterday just in time before the closure on Skeena Chinooks. Marvin fought this bad bay for a good 20 minutes and with the help of his partner Brad running my jetboat while I coached Marvin for the victory and a beached whale some 1.5 KMS down river. When the monster hit it took most of Marvin's line, and he mentioned Iater that he could see the last few wraps of line on the spool, I quickly threw the anchor into the boat and pushed off shore for the chase, and would you believe I forgot the net on shore, what a l%$#@ I thought to myself, oh well what could I do now. When you have no net your not going to land the fish in the middle of the Skeena, so I decided to head to shore and do what all bank maggots (another name for shore fishermen) do, and that is skid the fish on the rocks and he will lay over on his side and it’s all good, well Marvin did just that and there you have it, a fish of a lifetime!
Also pictured in our next slide is Robert Anderson of Medicine Hat Alberta with a chrome bar from the Skeena. This fish pushed the 30lb mark and is a Tyee, not to mention another pair for the day landed. It’s the biggest fish Bob has landed as well his grandson Austin proved he could pull in Skeena fish too.
Our Missouri Circus Show owner Leonard and Company spent a day on the Skeena with us. Pictured is me with Leonard and another beauty. During August the Skeena produces a large run of fresh Steelhead and attached is Tom the Ukrainian necktie, with a Steelhead fresh from the sea. This was Tom's second trip this season as he was in Kitimat in June for Chinooks, landing a 30lber.
Also fishing with us this week was Greg Chacalias and Garth Stark. These guys had very good success and the story of the week was 2 days ago when Greg launched into a 70lb plus Chinook on the famous Kalum River. His guide Barkley said it was the biggest fish he has ever seen, having it elude his net on 2 occasions, unsure if it could even fit the large Salmon net. After a 1 hour battle, the beast snapped the 30lb test line and away it disappeared into the green emerald water. It’s always about the one that got away that keeps us going back out!
This weeks arriving guests are from the USA, Japan, Alberta, Switzerland and the UK. The run of Coho in the rivers and the Saltwater begins this week as well peak Skeena Steelhead.
Tracey John Hittel
Jeff Carlson: BC Style Fishing Charters and J&E Tackle Shop, Prince Rupert BC
Hi Noel, fishing in and around Prince Rupert is excellent. I heard of boaters getting their limits on Salmon and Bottom Fish at many of the popular fishing grounds plus limits of Crab and Prawns. Coho numbers are picking up.
BOOK your charter dates now. Contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca
Tight Lines and see you on the water.
Jeff Carlson – owner
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Jason Munday: Fish Tales Tackle Shop, Terrace BC
Hello Noel, Chinook fishing has slowed down as the season is nearing its end. More and more reports are coming in reporting Steelhead and Coho being caught. As one fishery comes to an end another takes its place! You gotta love this region for its run after run of fish all year long. Sockeye, Pink, Coho and Steelhead are gearing up! So get out there and have FUN!
Fish Tales has incredible deals on all of your fishing needs. We invite everyone to come in and check out our full inventory of equipment so you are properly prepared to catch your monster fish! We also have a complementary phone for our out of town guests to use to call home. Also, Fish Tales would love to display your favorite picture on our in-store BIG SCREEN. Please email your pictures to jason@fishtalesterrace.com so we can display them for all to see!
Happy Fishing to all from Fish Tales Fly & Tackle Shop!! P.S. We just received our shipment of Premium Roe!! Yes, That Roe!!!
Fish Tales would like to take the opportunity to WELCOME Simmshttp://www.simmsfishing.com/ into our store. We now carry a solid Simms product line and growing. Fish Tales invites everyone to come in and check out our store display of this top quality product. Comfort is key for a great day on the river!!
Cheers!
Jason Munday
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Marvin Reid: Meziadin and Northern BC
Fishing seems to have slowed a bit on Meziadin Lake. I believe this is due mainly to the fact that most angling effort over the past few weeks has been focused on Sockeye, and not Dollies and Rainbows. The Sockeye that had been reported to be in the Nass River, have not entered the Meziadin system as of yet. Time will tell, if in fact this will happen. Dollies will be congregating at the mouths of the inlet streams, in search of salmon eggs, as the sockeye enter the streams to spawn.
There has been a lot of confusion over the past week as to highway conditions and road closures, due to forest fires at the north end of Highway 37. All services and Provincial Parks are open along Highway 37. As I have mentioned in previous reports, there are many great places to fish along Highway 37 for a variety of different species of fish. If you are travelling up this way, please drop into Meziadin Lake Provincial Park and I will be happy to share any information I have on the area with you.
I am now the operator of Meziadin Lake Provincial Park, as well as operating the Park which has a Store, and wireless internet to all sites. We also offer Travel Trailer Rentals to persons wishing to enjoy the outdoor experience.
I do guided fishing trips on Meziadin and other local lakes along Highway 37.
Meziadin if not the best lake in Northwest BC for Dolly Varden and Bull Trout, up to 11 lbs, must be very close to the top of the list. I supply all rods, tackle and bait. Care of catch and cleaning.
Trips can be booked noel@noelgyger.ca by the hour or by the day. I use an 19ft Harbercraft powered by a 75 Yamaha.
Best regards, Marvin Reid
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Bob Melrose: Oscars Source for Sports, Smithers BC
Staying Sharp
How sharp are you? Whoa, not talking about you losing it, talking about losing fish. The single, most important, thing you can do to having more success in landing fish is to have sticky sharp hooks. Yet, many anglers forget this critical bit of advice. Over the years, we have had many anglers say they had hooked but not held onto fish. When asked if the hooks were sharp or had been sharpened, a glazed, but familiar look comes over them. Without that sharp hook, you may make many passing acquaintances but no lasting friendships. In order for that hook to penetrate a fishes hard mouth, that hook needs to be sticky sharp. Sticky means grabbing, and not sliding, on an inclined fingernail. Sharp hooks are necessary for any fishing but especially so when it comes to Salmon or Steelhead. If the fish so much as sniffs your offering you want him/her hooked. Those hooks should also be checked and touched up every time you touch bottom. Many anglers do not take the time to do this. In fact, the majority of anglers do not own a hook sharpener.
Most hooks that come on the various lures are not sticky sharp and need to be touched up, or replaced, with the excellent Gamakatsu, or another of the premium hooks available. In BC we must use single hook only so we can replace the trebles or inferior single hooks with the open eye Gamakatsu http://www.rapala.ca/ hook. These hooks have an open eye, so are easy to attach to the split ring. A WARNING here: Gamakatsu are very high tempered and if you close that open eye quickly, you may crack the hook. Close slowly to avoid breakage.
When using the Octopus or beak type hooks look at the size of the eye to see if the split ring will fit through the eye. Hooks are available with different sized eyes appropriate for the application. Our laws also demand barbless, and if your hooks are barbed you can squeeze those barbs down SLOWLY, to avoid breakage. Most of the hooks can also be purchased in the Barbless version.
There are many hook sharpeners available at your speciality retailer. The most common is the Luhr Jensen http://www.rapala.ca/ Hook File in various sizes and with or without a handle. They are good but harder to finesse a hook if it needs just a minor touch up. The diamond sharpener by EZE-LAP are good in that they are pen-like and clip on your pocket. Pull out the sharpener, reverse it, and the round, diamond encrusted rod has a groove for aligning the hook. They work well and don't remove near as much material as the L.J. Hook File.
The best one I have found is the DR. SLICK diamond paddle. One side of the paddle is fine, and a medium on the reverse side. It is very easy to use and finesse even small flies. Clipped onto a retractor it is always available and should be used often.
Hook sharpening should be done towards the point, at three different, equal angles for best results. Test for sharpness on your fingernail.
If you want to 'Hook and Hold' keep those hooks sharp.
Chumming Around:
Most of our salmon fishing for Spring/Chinook Salmon is now winding down or closed. Many anglers enjoy the great fighting qualities of the next biggest of the Pacific Salmon, the Chum. Chum are much maligned as 'Dog Salmon' (for their canine teeth in spawning phase, and for there 'only good for dog food' misnomer). However, with proper care they are good table fare.
Chum Salmon are short river travellers and deteriorate quickly on entering fresh water. Fresh Chum should be cleaned and iced immediately after catching for best eating or smoking. Many anglers have the salmon sitting in the water for hours on a hot day and then complain that the fish are soft or terrible. In fact some cynical recipes for Chum tell you to cook the Chum on a cedar plank and then eat the plank. Like I say they get a bum chum rap.
Chum have a low oil content and smoke up well as many First Nations folk will tell you. Best cold smoked or made into Salmon Candy. Chum Chowder is a great soup and many Chum recipes can be found on the net by people who take the time to get the best results. The most important thing is to use only the freshest fish that are cleaned and iced immediately.
They will readily take flies and this is becoming the most popular way to fish for them. A #8-10 weight rod is needed as they can reach the mid 30's in size (15-kg). They will also take spoons and Spin-N-Glos.
The Chum Salmon run in the Kitimat River is not a big run this year but they sure provide a great fight and more Coho are showing up daily.
Prince Rupert
Excellent Coho now out of Rupert. Still a few Springs but mainly the Coho and Pinks. Bottom fishing good as there are so many places to fish out of Rupert.
Babine
Babine Lake has been full of Sockeye fisherman since it opened on August 1st. Fishing has been fair-good. Fish are in, just not as many as there will be in another week. Fish with a red Gamakatsu http://www.rapala.ca/ hook (barbs are allowed) a couple of red or green beads on a 18”-24” leader with a flasher, anywhere from 25-45 feet deep.
Babine River also has been lined with fisherman. Make sure you have a really heavy tip, you have to be on the bottom in order to catch any of these excellent tasting fish. Anywhere from a 9-11 inch-per-second tip is good. Make sure to give the bears their space, get out of the water at the first signs of any bears.
Kispiox
Locals have never seen the river so low. Fishing has been tough because of the low, warm water. It is great for swimming, not so great for fishing. Sockeye are in and a few Coho have been seen.
Bulkley
The river is green, but a little murky. We had some rains last night that may bump up the water level and get some more fish coming in. People are still getting Springs, but Coho and Pinks should be coming in soon.
Morice
River is low and clear. Fishing has been slow.
Enjoy your weekend.
Bob Melrose
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Product Profile
Tufline – The Leader in High Performance Braided Fishing Lines.
Established by Mr. David Lippy in the USA in the late 1930’s www.tuf-line.com
Western Filament is a worldwide leader in high-performance braided fishing line and fibers. Their leadership with Tuf-Line pioneered the use of braided Spectra and Dyneema fibers in fishing lines. All their braided fishing lines and fishing accessories are manufactured with their U.S. facility and meet the highest aerospace standards for quality. Whether braided superline, Dacron fishing line, Dacron fly line backing or vinyl coated ice fishing lines, choose the Tuf-Line and Western Filament name for superior performance.
For your viewing pleasure please cast to this link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1kyPvojL6rM and watch Ron Wakita and I test fish the new braided line Tuf-Line Duracast. Did I say we loved the line and caught a bunch of Coho?
Gamakatsu Dealers in the Northwest: City Centre Hardware and Sporting Goods in Kitimat, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace
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Guest Comments and Photos
*** If any of you have special fishing photos, testimonials, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them.
Fishing with Serge Carignan of Predator Fishing Charters of Prince Rupert (250 627-1993) on August 8, 2009.
The largest fish was a 103-lb halibut caught by Steve Dotto - on his first time fishing on the ocean. Shown left to right are Clarence Braam, Steve Dotto, Mike Folkema and Jim Mantel - all of Terrace, BC. Photo credit - Serge Carignan.
Catch and Release Formula
Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches)
Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches)
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Marketplace
Contact me noel@noelgyger.ca anytime to post your items. There is no charge for a posting. Here are the latest postings:
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Fiberglass Fish Reproductions
This 42 x 23.5 inch Steelhead was estimated to weigh 30-pounds. There are many sizes and positions available, and pretty much any species. Call Carey Braun anytime at 250-639-3769 and he will be happy to build one for you. Yes, that’s Carey in the photo. Place your order NOW
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Real Estate
Terrace, BC Beautiful 3300sq ft Log House on the Banks of the Skeena River 5 min. west from Downtown Terrace, BC. Situated on .75 of an acre and built in the early 70s before setback rules and is only 20 ft from the bank of the River, but out of the floodplain. There is a trail leading down to a bench where you can tie up your boat most of the year. Completely renovated house including new doors, windows, plumbing, and electrical, & is like a brand new house. It has 4 bedrooms (possible 5th) and 2 1/2 baths and two natural stone fireplaces. There is also a 22 X 32 shop & a double carport. Very private and quiet, just the sound of the river. Contact Noel Gyger for more photos and info noel@noelgyger.ca (Make an offer)
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Terrace, BC This property is a ten minute drive from the Terrace/Kitimat Airport part way between Terrace and Kitimat. Near Mount Layton Hot springs, within 45 minutes of internationally acclaimed Shames Mountain, 15 minutes from 18 Holes at the Skeena Valley Golf Club, and central in all directions from world class salmon fishing, mountain biking, hiking or kayaking. This property features over 400 feet of sandy beachfront. While approximately 25 acres is left forested, the balance has been levelled and prepared for your dream home, or potential development. This property is home to local wildlife, including Moose, Deer, and perhaps the occasional Spirit Bear, plus countless smaller mammals and birds. This property is truly a one of a kind natural treasure. Properties of this quality rarely become available, act now! Contact Noel for more info. noel@noelgyger.ca
Rick McDaniel Re/Max of Terrace
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Terrace, BC With over 3200 feet of river front, panoramic mountain views, beautiful natural spring on the property, mobile home and guest cabin, barn, stable, workshop, gardens, a 5 1/2 acre area that was formerly a vegetable growing plot that supplied the local area and has been fallow for several years now. May be organically certifiable. Pick your fishing spot along the riverfront, with several different good looking options available. Clear views of the Seven Sisters range, plus mountains to the East, West and South as well. Located 76 KM East of Terrace this is literally a piece of Paradise on Earth. The balance of the property carries up the ridge toward the majestic peaks on the South side of Highway 16. Perfect as a small farm or build your dream home. Contact Noel for more info, maps and more photo's noel@noelgyger.ca
Rick McDaniel Re/Max of Terrace
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WANTED TO BUY I have a client who is interested in property of 5-10 acres or larger on the Skeena River or one of the tribs, not too far out from Terrace BC. Need winter access, hydro and phone connection, or at least wireless coverage. He wants to be able to walk down to the river with his Spey rod and fish, so Skeena 4 would be ideal, but no farther than USK. If you have larger acreage that is sub-dividable to suit my client please Contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
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Smithers BC - 8 terraced acres of Bulkley River Waterfront. Experience the advantage of natures tranquility only 20 minutes from downtown Smithers, BC. Prime building lot awaits your ideas for development. Proven year round water source. Boat launch access for world class fishing, kayaking, rafting, etc. School bus service available. Recreation waterfront and privacy all at your door step. Contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca for detail and more photo's.
Chris Timms Calderwood Realty Ltd of Smithers
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Kispiox BC - Fishing paradise out your back door, world record steelhead were caught in this fishing hole. 24 acres of rare Kispiox Riverfront and host to the 'Cottonwood Hole'. Level, benched property part. Flood plain. Value of old homestead at buyers discretion. Prettiest small parcel in the valley. Contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca or detail and more photo's.
Chris Timms Calderwood Realty of Smithers
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Contact me anytime noel@noelgyger.ca to post your FOR SALE river or ocean front property. Retirement folks from around the world are looking for this type of investment where they can fish the rest of their lives and still be close to home! There is NO charge for a posting. My FISHING REPORT AND WEBSITE has world wide reach. Monthly average: over 600,000 server requests handled.
View current postings
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B&B’s For Sale
Sooke, BC Ocean Wilderness Inn This breathtaking 4.6 acre oceanfront property boasts a private setting with small creek towering trees and lots of wildlife for photographers and nature lovers. The beautiful walk on waterfront is almost a full mile of private beach. The home offers 9 very large bedrooms with large bathrooms. The fir floors blend into the log theme of the home, everyone who visits feels at ease in this comfortable home. Current owners have done extensive renovations to keep the property in top condition. The home has been featured in several publications and is well known for its great meals, crystal clear water, spectacular gardens and customer service. Enjoy spectacular views from the hot tub. Just a few minutes drive to fabulous salmon fishing and surfing beaches. Contact Noel Gyger for more info noel@noelgyger.ca
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Quadra Island, BC Moon Shadows B&B 4500 square foot home on an acre of beautiful gardens, lots of room for toys in barn and storage shed. What a wonderful life choice with the ocean at your door step and fabulous Islands and inlets to discover while sailing or kayaking, fabulous fishing, clamming and oysters. Just a wonderful way to enjoy life while raising your family. Home is fully operational as a B&B, and is being sold with all furnishings, bedding and kitchen tools as the current owners are leaving the province. Contact Noel for more info noel@noelgyger.ca
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Sooke, BC Coopers Cove Guest House Beautifully appointed 6 bedroom 7 bathroom waterfront B&B. This spectacular B&B was featured on Oprah for its gourmet cooking classes. Fabulous large professional kitchen, wonderful grounds complete with herb and vegetable gardens, and two hot tubs. Home is steps from the Galloping Goose Trail leading into the heart of Victoria. Contact Noel for more info noel@noelgyger.ca
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Boats for Sale
Price reduced to $10,500
For Sale: Custom 15 foot all welded aluminum Jet boat: 2000 Johnson 40 jet power with power trim stainless steel impeller (and stock aluminum impeller) 8 degree hull with tunnel. Center consol. Front fishing platform with storage. 3 Rod holders. 1 Scotty down rigger. Hummingbird 520 fish finder, Karavan trailer. One owner, never used for guiding. Turn key ready. $11,500 obo. Phone 250-635-4007 ask for Jamie.
For Sale or Lease: 1997 24' Ali-Craft jet-boat & boat trailer: $35,000 (will cost you over $60K new) For complete listing details and contact info please click here (to read a Microsoft Word Document .doc)
For Sale: 16' Fiberglass Dory and Trailer: $6,500 (will cost you $8-9K new) Very well maintained. Comes with anchor, anchor rope, life jackets (up to six), fish box, 10' ash oars, and spare new trailer tire. Has water-tight, lockable dry storage under the front seat also has dry storage under the bow. Knee braces at the bow, for standing & fighting fish while floating downstream. Current owner will deliver anywhere in northwestern BC. May be viewed at Meziadin Lake. Will consider a new model quad in good condition as trade.: Sorry, I don't have a phone.
To view the items currently listed please cast to: http://www.noelgyger.ca/market-place.htm
To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report
E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Last Minute “discount” booking prices
We’ve just had a major cancellation, and now have 6-8 spaces available during the week of August 15 to 21 – as you know, one of our prime time fly fishing weeks on the Skeena and Copper! Though I don’t like giving really large discounts, we’re in a tough spot right now. So, we are offering a 20% discount off the 2010 rates to clients if they join us either at the lodge or as a day booking.
We also have some great spaces during our Fall Steelhead and Coho season, during the weeks of: September 12 to 18, September 26 to October 2, October 10 to 16 and October 31 to November 6. With the Steelhead numbers at Tyee, it’s shaping up to be a good Summer and Fall on our rivers. If interested please contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca soon. |
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Jul 24, 2010; 12:27AM - Worlds Best Fishing Continues!
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
Weekly Fishing Reports (Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat, Prince Rupert and Meziadin North)
Noel Gyger
July 11 to July 18, 2010
Dear Fishing Friends:
SUMMARY: Weather has been good with average temperatures and the odd rain shower. Fishing for Chinook, Sockeye, Chum Salmon, Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout and Dolly Varden Char using fly, spin and conventional gear has been good. The Skeena River has been dropping all week and fishing for Chinook is good. I have many reports of some very big Chinook caught this week. The Kalum River is in good shape and fishing for Chinook is fair. The Kitimat River is in good shape and fishing for Chinook is excellent. The main run of Chinook are in the river now. The main run has peaked. A few more should come in with the morning high tide. This will also bring in Chum and Pink. Fishing 'out front' the Kitimat Bay (Douglas Channel) for Chinook is spotty as most of the fish have gone upriver. Coho, Chum and Pink are starting to show up in the bay. Fishing the outer waters for all species of Salmon and Halibut is good. Crab (Dungeness and King) fishing is excellent. Check out the Ron Wakita report below. The Zymoetz (Copper) River is in good shape and fishing for Chinook is good. Ocean Chinook fishing in Prince Rupert is good. Fishing for Halibut is good and so is trapping Crabs and Prawns. People are catching their limits. Jason Munday in Terrace reported anglers are catching Chinook on the mainstem Skeena River. Marvin Reid from Mezidian North reports lake fishing for Dolly Varden and Rainbow Trout is good. Water levels on the Meziadin Lake are dropping. More Sockeye are showing up in the Meziadin Lake. Chinook are being caught at the mouth of the Meziadin River where it dumps into the Nass River. Bob Melrose says the Bulkley River is low and clear. Fish are a little tough to get. Morice River is so clear fishing is tough. Fish will be in the deep pools waiting for more water before they move upriver. The Kispiox River water is low. You really need to know your stuff to catch a fish here now. We need a bump in water in all of these Skeena Tributary rivers to get the fish moving. This week guide reports came from Ron Wakita, Andreas Handle, Mike Holland, Ariel Kuppers, Tracey Hittel, Gill McKean, Jeff Carlson, Randy Marshall, Greg Buck, Nelson Furtado and Marvin Reid. A very hearty Thank you to all guides and anglers who have sent reports and photos. It is very much appreciated!
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers, Meziadin Park Store in Meziadin Lake BC and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace. Please visit these shops to watch the shows.
BOOK NOW! Click here http://www.noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm for discounted trips of a lifetime! Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one.
I will promptly answer your questions.
Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, podcasts, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. I am at your service.
New Items on Website
July 16, 2010 One FOR SALE: (Riverfront property on the Bulkley River)
http://www.noelgyger.ca/recreation-retirement-waterfront.htm
July 16, 2010 One FOR SALE: (Riverfront property on the Kispiox River)
http://www.noelgyger.ca/recreation-retirement-waterfront.htm
July 14 & 15, 2010 One Conservation item http://www.noelgyger.ca/conservation.htm
Weather and Water Conditions
Bulkley River
Water is low and clarity is excellent. Fish are in but tough to get.
Kalum River
More anglers are heading out to try their luck fishing for Chinook (King) Salmon. The water is in good shape. Fishing has been reported as fair. Chinook are being caught in the lower section. The main run should be here soon. Reminder: Fishing for Chinook upstream of signs below the lower canyon closed on Tuesday, May 25th. The lower end will remain open to fish for Chinook until August 7th.
Kispiox River
We have had mixed reports about the fishing. Some guys are getting into a lot of fish while others are leaving empty handed. Water is low, but river clarity is excellent.
Morice River
Again, fish are in but catching is tough. The water is so clear and low that they will be in the deep pools waiting for more water before they move on.
Skeena River
The water dropped all week and fishing for Chinook (King) Salmon is good. Lots of people are heading out on the river to try their luck. The main run of giant Chinook in the Terrace area is here. The two main boat ramps (Fishermen's Park and Kitsumkalum) are filling up with excited anglers. There are more and more anglers coming every day to enjoy this fabulous fishery. The bank fishermen are setting up on the 'Cotton Wood' pool on the Skeena River. A few Chinook have been caught off of the 'Lakelse River Bridge'. Both spin and fly fishermen are covering the banks at “Ferry Island”. This is a very exciting time of year!
Hi Noel, here is a picture of pro angling guide Randy Marshall (left) and assistant angling guide Nelson Furtado (Randy's River Guiding) posing with a 45 lb Chinook landed on the Skeena River this week. Photo by Greg Buck. The picture sent to Noel Gyger by Nelson Furtado.
Zymoetz (Copper) River
The water is in good shape. Chinook are coming in now. I have received some good reports of Chinook landed.
Fishing Guide Reports
Summary for Skeena and Tributaries
Fishing This Week
EXCELLENT
Type of Fish Caught
River: Chinook Salmon, Chum Salmon, Pink Salmon, Trout and Dolly Varden
Ocean: Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness and King Crab for ocean.
Thank you for using barbless hooks! (This is a BC fishing regulation)
Largest Fish of the Week
River: 50-pound Chinook on the Kitimat River. 45-pound Chinook Skeena River. Ocean: 150-pound Douglas Channel, Kitimat, BC
Ron Wakita: Reliable Guide and Charters, Kitimat BC
Kitimat River
The fishing on the Kitimat River was excellent this week with bright, big Chinook moving in on the morning big tides. The key to success this week was fishing the morning high tides. There were more and more Pinks and Chum starting to show in good numbers. Surprisingly, there were also the odd Sockeye and Coho caught this week. The Kitimat River has a skeleton run of Sockeye, D.F.O estimates between 500 to1000. This is an excellent time to be fishing the Kitimat. There are all five species of Salmon swimming around waiting to be hooked by a lucky angler.
July 10 - I had the pleasure of fishing with Naomi Point and Jonathon Sura. We hooked 2 chrome Chinook but we landed a 24lb beautiful, bright Chinook. We had an excellent and very exciting day of Chinook fishing on the Kitimat River. Thank You to Naomi and Jonathon for enlisting our guiding services. I had a lot of fun fishing with you both.
July 10 - Andreas Handl of Kingfish West Coast Adventures landed 3 very nice Chinook. I took this photo on the river when Andreas' boat and mine were boat to boat. Susan and Rainer looked very happy with their catch. Congratulations to all! All of these Chinook were bright fish with sea lice. Andreas was using Luhr Jensen http://www.rapala.ca/ Hot Shot SE Mag. Anyone wishing to book a trip with Andreas please contact Noel Gyger
July 12 - Mike Holland fishing with our clients, Marvin and Val Hawke had a Great Day drifting the Kitimat River. They hooked 4 Chinook and landed 3. Congratulations Marvin and Val! Well done Mike! Mike commented that Marvin and Val were a pleasure to fish with. Anyone wishing to book a trip with Mike please contact Noel Gyger
July 12 - I had the pleasure of fishing with my very good friend Randy Padalec and his new girlfriend, Darcy Shaw. Also along on our drift was Dale, a very good friend of the Padalec family. Dale landed a Pink and Darcy landed a 15lb Chinook on our morning drift. We had a great time on our drift since Randy and I have fished together for 20 plus years. The 'Old Randy' I affectionately referred to as the 'Fishing partner from H...' The 'New Randy' with Darcy's guidance, has potential. :)
July 13 - Ariel Kuppers drifting with our clients, Daniel and Louise Kitt hooked 2 Chinook but landed a bunch of Pinks. The Pinks are an excellent warm up exercise for landing the bigger Chinook. Stay focused and you will land some Chinook.
July 13 - Randy, Darcy and I decided to fish in my secret fishing hole, directly under Haisla Bridge. We landed a 24lb Chinook on a Metallic Pink Hot Shot. http://www.rapala.ca/ Randy told some fish stories and we enjoyed the breeze which had less wind than Randy's fish stories. We caught a fresh Chinook with Sea Lice. Great Fish Stories Randy and Congratulations on the fish!
July 14 - Randy and his father, Mike Padalec and I decided to fish under the bridge again and attempt to catch Randy's mother Evelyn a 'Birthday Fish'. I am pleased to announce that we landed 2 Birthday Chinook on the morning tide. Randy and Mike did an excellent job landing Evelyn's Birthday fish. Happy Birthday Evelyn!
The first Chinook we hooked and landed on Yakama Bait's New Blue Scale Mag Lip. It took us less than five minutes from launching to hook this 29lb Chinook. Mike did an exceptional job landing this Chinook. I have been working with Buzz Ramsey from Yakama Bait to make some adjustments to these lures for our fishery. I think we have dialed in these lures for fishing the Northwest for Chinook. They are a deep diving plug that has a 'Skip beat action' that Buzz designed to entice the strike. I think it is a winner. Well done Buzz. The proof is in the pictures. A Huge Thank You to Buzz!
July 14 - Andreas fishing with our clients Louise and Daniel Kitt landed a Chum and a 22lb Chinook. First they landed some Pinks with Ariel, then a Chum and finally a Chinook. Congratulations Daniel and Louise! Well done Andreas! Louise and Daniel are such wonderful people and I am so happy to report their success on the Kitimat River.
July 15 - Andreas Handl fishing with his clients Tamara and her father Mike Hustin landed a 50lb Chinook on a Luhr Jensen http://www.rapala.ca/ Hot Shot SE Mag. Wow! Andreas reports that Tamara did an awesome job landing this brute of a fish. Well done Tamara! Congratulations, that is a fish of a lifetime! When I spoke to Tamara's father Mike there was a sense of pride that only a father can relate to. Tamara loves to fish with her father and this fishing trip will create a page in the Hustin history of life that will be cherished for generations. Thank You to Tamara, Mike and Andreas for allowing us to share the moment! Anyone wishing to book a trip with Andreas please contact Noel Gyger
July 15 - Mike Holland guiding his clients Dave and Anthony enabled them to land a 22lb Chinook. Dave reports 'this is the first Chinook he has landed and the biggest fish ever'. Congratulations Dave and well done Mike.
July 15 - Reliable Guide and Charters had the pleasure of hosting a Business Networking excursion for Gerry Knechtel of Midway Purnel Ltd. Gerry organized this Driftboat trip for a group of ten business associates to do some fishing and networking in the peaceful tranquility floating down the Kitimat River. These trips provide an excellent opportunity to get away from the office and enjoy the company of business associates on a personal level rather than by phone, fax or emails.
The tranquility of drifting the Kitimat River was frequently interrupted by the bending of rods and the sweet sound of 'Fish On!' This group hooked 10 Chinook in total and landed 5. They also landed a bunch of Pinks and lost a Coho at the boat. Some of the group had a front row seat to watch Tamara Hustin land a 50lb Chinook. To watch a very attractive young lady tame a 50lb Chinook was quite the experience.
On behalf of Ariel, Trent, Richard and myself, a big Thank You to Gerry Knechtel for organizing this trip and enlisting our Guiding services. I hope you all a wonderful fishing experience on the Kitimat River. We were honoured that you chose our company to host your fishing trip and we look forward to being at your service to your group again in the future.
July 16 - I had the pleasure of fishing with Kyle Adams and AJ Brazil for a few hours on the Kitimat River. I had intended to go to the gym and work out but I decided instead to load my driftboat with 3 willing anglers and row my driftboat to burn the excess summer calories. I also wanted to do a little Tackle testing with Yakama Bait new Mag Lip diving plugs. Kyle and AJ were happy to accommodate when I shared my plan with them in the parking lot in front of our Tackle store. Kyle landed our first Chinook weighing 29lbs on Yakama Bait's new Mag Lip Blue Scale Diving Plug. When we went on shore to land this Chinook we invited Don from Prince George to join us. This provided the extra weight in the driftboat to increase the calorie burn and allowed us to put up another rod with another Mag Lip. With Don in the boat we hooked but lost another Chinook on the Mag Lip Blue Scale and then AJ landed a 22lb Chinook on the Mag Lip Blue Pirate. Thanks for a great morning of fishing guys. I was able to get an excellent work out, Kyle and AJ were more than happy to land the Chinook and Yakama's Mag Lip has earned the recognition of enticing Kitimat River Chinook to take the hook. Buzz Ramsey of Yakama Bait also deserves recognition of designing a winner. Yakama Bait's Mag Lip is the Real Deal! Later that day, Cindy Empson of Royal Lepage shared a saying with me that 'if you love your job, you will never work a day in your life!'. Life is good!
July 16 - Ron Plante was fishing with his kids and some friends and caught a Chum and a bunch of Pinks. A father fishing with his kids in Kitimat is a common occurrence and it is always a delight for me to observe. Some of the fondest memories of my father are fishing trips and hockey road trips. Well done Ron and family
There were also 2 Chum landed on the Radley Park side by Nolan and his father. Congratulations guys!
Anglers are reminded that Chum are open on the Kitimat River for retention of 2 Chum per day over 30cms. Pinks on the Kitimat River are closed for retention.
Summary: The Star of this week was Yakama Bait's new Mag Lip diving plug. It has been a long time since I have gotten this excited about a new lure on the market. It is also an advantage to be able to speak directly to Buzz Ramsey, the lure designer. Thank You for all your help Buzz.
The Kitimat River will continue to fill with Chinook, Pinks and Chum in the coming weeks. There will be plenty of action on the rods to entertain all levels of anglers. We are indeed fortunate to be blessed with the stock abundance of Salmon that the Kitimat River provides.
Tidal Portion
July 13 - Andreas fishing with his clients Norm, Anthony, Brad and Don landed 7 Chinook. The largest was 40lbs. Wow! What an awesome day of Chinook fishing!
July 16 - Andreas Handl fishing with his clients Tamara and her father Mike Hustin and their relatives Dave and Anthony in the Tidal portion landed 3 Chinook. Wow ! Congratulations to the Hustin family! Your family is landing big Chinook on all portions of the Kitimat River. Great job Andreas! Anyone interested in booking a trip with Andreas please contact Noel Gyger
Douglas Channel
The Douglas Channel is producing Chinook, Coho, Pinks, Chum and very good numbers of Sockeye Salmon in exceptional numbers. Bottom fishing has also been very good highlighted by a 90lb and a 150lb Halibut caught this week.
July 11 - Ferd Bouzane fishing with his brother John boated a 150lb Halibut. Ferd said that John landed the Halibut but usually with big Halibut it is a team effort. Congratulations to the 'Bouzane Halibut Fishing Team'. Ferd also reports catching a bunch of Grey Cod on their fishing trip. Well done Guys!
July 15 - Wes Owen boated 3 Coho in the Kitimat Harbour. This is exceptionally early for Coho at this end of Douglas Channel. (sorry no photos available) When the early signs of a run start early usually means we are in for a Good One! Time will tell. Stay tuned. Good Job Skipper.
Summary: The Douglas Channel will start to show her stock abundance in all her glory in the coming weeks. When the Chinook, Pinks and Chum start to spawn bottomfish will migrate into the inner portion of the Douglas Channel. This makes bottom fishing possible in the wind sheltered areas of the Douglas Channel and easier for smaller boats to productively bottom fish. All five Salmon species will also be available for harvest. The key is to know where to go and what to do.
Any interested anglers are welcome to email me at wakita@telus.net or contact the helpful staff at MK Bay Marina 250 632 6401.
Lori from M K Bay reports that they have full launching facilities and temporary moorage available. 'We really try to accommodate everyone'.
We still have available days on our driftboat trips, Jetboat trips and Saltwater trips. Any interested anglers please contact noel@noelgyger.ca
Thank You to everyone for contributing photos and info for this fishing report.
Sincerely and Cheers
Ron Wakita
Westcoast Fishing Adventures, Terrace BC
Hello Noel, Well it has been an incredible start to the Chinook season with some guests hooking as many as 20 to 30 Chinook a day. The worst day we have seen so far was 6 hooked with none landed. I guess you can't catch them all!!
Not much time to type a full report but I think you get my drift. Take care...
NEW! I am offering a 'Super Special' FULL DAY guided Chinook Drift-Boat fishing on the Skeena and Kitimat Rivers! Maximum 3 per boat.
Please contact Noel for the detail and prices.
Tight Lines
Gill McKean
Fishing is our addiction - Guiding is our passion - Adventure is in our blood
J & E Tackle Shop, Prince Rupert BC
Hi Noel, fishing in and around Prince Rupert is excellent, especially when the days are not too windy. I heard of boaters getting their limits on Salmon and Bottom Fish at many of the popular fishing grounds plus limits of Crab and Prawns. I am really busy with charters so my report is a little short this week. I should have some nice pics and more of a report for you next week. Please get the word out that fishing is great so folks who are planning trips can come now. The charter boats are really busy and most are booked up. Please have them contact you for available dates
Fish Tales Tackle Shop, Terrace BC
Hello Noel, Well this season is smoke’n hot so far! The Skeena River is producing outstanding fishing! People are pumped! The weather is great and the rivers are in near perfect condition. This is the time to be out there for your monster prize fish!!!
Fish Tales has incredible deals on all of your fishing needs. We invite everyone to come in and check out our full inventory of equipment so you are properly prepared to catch your monster fish! We also have a complementary phone for our out of town guests to use to call home. Also, Fish Tales would love to display your favorite picture on our in-store BIG SCREEN. Please email your pictures to jason@fishtalesterrace.com so we can display them for all to see!
Happy Fishing to all from Fish Tales Fly & Tackle Shop!!
This week Redl’s item is a Trophy XL Wading Jacket. http://www.redlsports.com/ Launched in July 2006. Trophy XL's waterproof and breathable wading jackets are available at your nearest Trophy XL deals. Their wading jacket is designed to meet the needs of river anglers in the Pacific Northwest. Available in small, medium, large, extra large and extra extra large. Regular price $121.99 on SALE 20% off for $97.59 each.
Fish Tales would like to take the opportunity to WELCOME Simms http://www.simmsfishing.com/ into our store. We now carry a solid Simms product line and growing. Fish Tales invites everyone to come in and check out our store display of this top quality product. Comfort is key for a great day on the river!!
Happy Fishing to all from Fish Tales Fly & Tackle Shop!!
Instore flyer coming soon...
Out of town orders are always welcome. Come in for a coffee anytime.
Cheers!
Jason Munday
Marvin Reid: Meziadin and Northern BC
Hi Noel, Meziadin Lake continues to produce both dolly varden and rainbows. Lake levels are now dropping after having risen during the last warm spell. The number of sockeye entering Meziadin Lake increases each day. I have received reports of some excellent fishing for springs at the mouth of the Meziadin River, where it flows into the Nass River. As well, people heading south, down Highway 37, are reporting great fishing at Kinaskan Lake as well as other lakes and streams along the route.
I had the pleasure this past week of fishing with a couple of good friends from Kitimat, Wendy 'O' and Alan Hoover. We were fortunate enough to hook into a couple of rainbows. Unfortunately we did not have a lot of time to fish, so hopefully we will get another opportunity before summer is over.
I am now the operator of Meziadin Lake Provincial Park, as well as operating the Park which has a Store, and wireless internet to all sites. We also offer Travel Trailer Rentals to persons wishing to enjoy the outdoor experience.
I do guided fishing trips on Meziadin and other local lakes along Highway 37.
Meziadin if not the best lake in Northwest BC for Dolly Varden and Bull Trout, up to 11 lbs, must be very close to the top of the list. I supply all rods, tackle and bait. Care of catch and cleaning.
Trips can be booked by the hour or by the day. I use an 19ft Harbercraft powered by a 75 Yamaha.
We can be contacted at marvin_reid@telus.net , or 1 866 500 7302
Best regards, Marvin Reid
Bob Melrose: Oscars Source for Sports, Smithers BC
They Found some Sockeye!
Last week we asked the question 'Where Have All the Sockeye Gone'? Today we can tell you that they have found enough for a Sockeye opening on the Skeena. Effective July 14 the Skeena is open from the mouth all the way up to the confluence with the Babine.
Limit is 2 per day, possession of 4. There is no retention of Sockeye in the area of the Kitwanga as marked by the boundary signs. The Babine will be open August 1-31, limit 2 Sockeye per day, possession 4, and fly fishing and barbless hook only.
The recreational catch rate is estimated at 4% of the total Sockeye catch. We are happy that we do have an opening but also know that the Sockeye commercial catch and native fisheries can greatly impact the Steelhead and Coho returns. The best solution is to not manage for any one specific group but have so many fish returning that commercial, native, and sport fishers are all happy. Let’s forget the politics and just think about the fish.
Low Water
Most of our rivers are running at near record low levels. Ministry of Environment data shows the Fraser, Thompson, Skeena and Nass systems are well below normal levels for this time of year. The Skeena and Nass are so low that they are classed as Drought Level 3 (very low condition).
The Bulkley is flowing at below normal condition.
All of this means that slower water flows tend to concentrate the fish a little more and will give anglers easier access to the many bars along the Skeena. It will probably mean that jet boaters should be very aware of the hazards and have good knowledge of the safe channels as water is much shallower than normal. Be careful.
Fishing Sockeye
When fly fishing for Sockeye the need for a good strong hook is critical. We are constantly hooking bottom so we need a very strong hook that holds as sharp a point as possible in these conditions. The hook we have been really impressed with is the Mustad R90 size 4. It holds a point extremely well and is a 4X Strong. Even though it is only a #4 we have landed 30-40 pound Springs with that hook. We like the #4 as Sockeye in the ocean are plankton feeders and are used to small feed. In observing Sockeye from a high vantage area we notice with anglers using those larger flies, that the Sockeye simply move aside to let the bigger flies pass by.
The technique for fishing Sockeye is called high stick nymphing. Google up High Stick nymphing and you can watch some videos on Youtube to get the idea. On the Babine or the bars on the Skeena the fast water seams are the Sockeye highway and concentrate the upstream migration. In slower water the Sockeye spread out, in fast water their line of travel is much narrower. Casts should be short and upstream. Keep rod parallel to the water and follow your fast sinking line and as it passes you lower the rod tip. The idea is to keep as tight a line as possible from your rod tip to the fly. I have watched many anglers cast medium to long casts with huge bellies in the line. All that will catch is a huge dose of frustration. Once anglers learn to high stick the rod on the seams their success is immediate.
Fly line must be fast sinking to get immediately to the bottom, raising and lowering the rod tip keeps the fly in the zone. Leaders must be short, in the one meter range and usually 15 pound test. We seldom go above 20 pound because we then risk losing our whole fly line. We would rather break a fish off than lose a $60 fly line.
All foul hooked Sockeye must by law be released, and anglers fishing the Babine which opens on August 1 must use fly fishing gear only. This regulation also means no external weight. You can't use split shot, lead wraps etc. Check with your speciality tackle shop for the proper weight sink tips needed.
If a fish is obviously foul hooked the fish should be broken off immediately, not trying to wrestle it to the beach.
PRINCE RUPERT
Excellent fishing out of Rupert with the peak of the Springs coming in and more and more Coho showing up daily. Bottom fishing good with rockfish, ling and Halibut.
Absolutely prime time to be there.
BULKLEY RIVER
Water is low and clarity is excellent. Fish are in but tough to get.
KISPIOX RIVER
We have had mixed reports about the fishing. Some guys are getting into a lot of fish while others are leaving empty handed. Water is low, but river clarity is excellent.
MORICE RIVER
Again, fish are in but catching is tough. The water is so clear and low that they will be in the deep pools waiting for more water before they move on.
Enjoy your weekend. Bob Melrose
Product Profile
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Fishing Regulations
2009-2011 BC tidal waters and non-tidal (Federal) Salmon fishing information:
www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfish
Effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011
2009-2011 Freshwater (Provincial) Fishing Regulations Synopsis:
www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish
Effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011 (Note: regs good for two years)
Guest Comments and Photos
*** If any of you have special fishing photos, testimonials, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them.
July 10 Hello Noel, well, my nephew and I made it back from the Skeena yesterday, July 10th. What a week we had on the Skeena. My nephew James, is 14, and has never been salmon fishing before. He handled himself like a pro.
James and I caught a 8lb, 9lb, 15lb, 20lb, 27lb, 37lb, three 39lb, and a 50lb Spring during the course of the week.
I also caught a 12lb Steelhead, and a couple of 3 and 4lb dollys, and dozens of rainbows.
There were two events that happened during our fishing trip, on the Skeena, I'm sure James will be talking about long after I am gone. I actually have this first story I'm about to tell you on video. I just need to get it transferred to DVD.
I gave James my 11ft, heavy action Shakespeare http://www.purefishing.com/ Ugly stick, with a small 6500c series, Abu Garcia http://www.purefishing.com/ reel, to use. After casting out and setting the rod in its holder, the bell soon went off and the battle was on.
James started to back up the bank and reel in a huge Spring. After several minutes of hanging on for all he could, James yelled out to me, 'The reel broke off the rod'. So James found himself with the rod in one hand and the reel in the other. The metal tab which was welded to the reel broke off completely. He managed to stick the rod under one arm and use both hands to reel in a bit at a time. After a fairly lengthy battle, this young boy managed to land our second 39lb salmon. This was amazing to see!
The second story is as equally exciting. Shortly after casting out and setting the rods in their holders, both James and I started up the river bank to our camp, about 50 yards from the waters edge. Half way to the camp we both turned to check out the rods. We heard the bell go off on one of the rods, followed by a loud smacking noise. One rod was gone from its holder. We both ran down to the river, but it was too late, the rod was no where to be seen. We had lost my new Abu Garcia http://www.purefishing.com/ 7001i, and 9.5 ft Shimano http://fish.shimano.com/ rod. What a disappointment.
About a half hour later, a person appeared on top of the log jam just next to our camp, and yelled out to me, 'did you guys lose a rod?' I explained the make and model, to which the gentlemen replied, 'Yes that's the one, you'll have to climb over the log jam and get your rod back, but I'm keeping the salmon. It would appear he snagged the rod and managed to land the 20lb salmon. The rod was dragged for about a 150 yards across the rocky bottom.
The Shimano rod is fine but the reel is thrashed. It may be repairable. I just need to take a closer look.
Pretty amazing stories eh? It's the honest truth, it really did happen to us.
Please find attached a few pictures from our amazing trip.
Yours truly
Stephen H. Frandsen
Hi Noel, Skeena River fish, caught last week by my partner Trevor Penner.
Thanks
Jim Trinca
Catch and Release Formula
Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches)
Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches)
Marketplace
Contact me anytime to post your items. There is no charge for a posting. Here are the latest postings
Fiberglass Fish Reproductions
This 42 x 23.5 inch Steelhead was estimated to weigh 30-pounds. There are many sizes and positions available, and pretty much any species. Call Carey Braun anytime at 250-639-3769 and he will be happy to build one for you. Yes, that’s Carey in the photo. Place your order NOW
Real Estate
New! May 2/10
This property is a ten minute drive from the Terrace/Kitimat Airport part way between Terrace and Kitimat. Near Mount Layton Hot springs, within 45 minutes of internationally acclaimed Shames Mountain, 15 minutes from 18 Holes at the Skeena Valley Golf Club, and central in all directions from world class salmon fishing, mountain biking, hiking or kayaking. This property features over 400 feet of sandy beachfront. While approximately 25 acres is left forested, the balance has been levelled and prepared for your dream home, or potential development. This property is home to local wildlife, including Moose, Deer, and perhaps the occasional Spirit Bear, plus countless smaller mammals and birds. This property is truly a one of a kind natural treasure. Properties of this quality rarely become available, act now! Contact Noel for more info.
Rick McDaniel Re/Max of Terrace
With over 3200 feet of river front, panoramic mountain views, beautiful natural spring on the property, mobile home and guest cabin, barn, stable, workshop, gardens, a 5 1/2 acre area that was formerly a vegetable growing plot that supplied the local area and has been fallow for several years now. May be organically certifiable. Pick your fishing spot along the riverfront, with several different good looking options available. Clear views of the Seven Sisters range, plus mountains to the East, West and South as well. Located 76 KM East of Terrace this is literally a piece of Paradise on Earth. The balance of the property carries up the ridge toward the majestic peaks on the South side of Highway 16. Perfect as a small farm or build your dream home. Contact Noel for more info, maps and more photo's.
Rick McDaniel Re/Max of Terrace
WANTED TO BUY I have a client who is interested in property of 5-10 acres or larger on the Skeena River or one of the tribs, not too far out from Terrace BC. Need winter access, hydro and phone connection, or at least wireless coverage. He wants to be able to walk down to the river with his Spey rod and fish, so Skeena 4 would be ideal, but no farther than USK. If you have larger acreage that is sub-dividable to suit my client please Contact Noel Gyger New! May 22/10
Smithers BC - 8 terraced acres of Bulkley River Waterfront. Experience the advantage of natures tranquility only 20 minutes from downtown Smithers, BC. Prime building lot awaits your ideas for development. Proven year round water source. Boat launch access for world class fishing, kayaking, rafting, etc. School bus service available. Recreation waterfront and privacy all at your door step. Contact Noel Gyger for detail and more photo's. New! July 16/10
Chris Timms Calderwood Realty Ltd of Smithers
Kispiox BC - Fishing paradise out your back door, world record steelhead were caught in this fishing hole. 24 acres of rare Kispiox Riverfront and host to the 'Cottonwood Hole'. Level, benched property part. Flood plain. Value of old homestead at buyers discretion. Prettiest small parcel in the valley. Contact Noel Gyger for detail and more photo's. New! July 16/10
Chris Timms Calderwood Realty of Smithers
Contact me anytime to post your FOR SALE river or ocean front property. Retirement folks from around the world are looking for this type of investment where they can fish the rest of their lives and still be close to home! There is NO charge for a posting. My FISHING REPORT AND WEBSITE has world wide reach.
View current postings http://www.noelgyger.ca/recreation-retirement-waterfront.htm
Boats
Newest MARKET PLACE ITEMS BELOW:
Price reduced to $10,500
For Sale: Custom 15 foot all welded aluminum Jet boat: 2000 Johnson 40 jet power with power trim stainless steel impeller (and stock aluminum impeller) 8 degree hull with tunnel. Center consol. Front fishing platform with storage. 3 Rod holders. 1 Scotty down rigger. Hummingbird 520 fish finder, Karavan trailer. One owner, never used for guiding. Turn key ready. $11,500 obo. Phone 250-635-4007 ask for Jamie. New! June 19/10
For Sale or Lease: 1997 24' Ali-Craft jet-boat & boat trailer: $35,000 (will cost you over $60K new) For complete listing details and contact info please click here http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/june-17_2010-gary-miltenberger.doc New! June 17/10
For Sale: 16' Fiberglass Dory and Trailer: $5000 (will cost you $8-9K new) Very well maintained. Comes with anchor, anchor rope, life jackets (up to six), fish box, 10' ash oars, and spare new trailer tire. Has water-tight, lockable dry storage under the front seat also has dry storage under the bow. Knee braces at the bow, for standing & fighting fish while floating downstream. Current owner will deliver anywhere in northwestern BC. May be viewed at Meziadin Lake. Will consider a new model quad in good condition as trade. Contact Gary Miltenberger, e-mail only: gmiltenb@gmail.com Sorry, I don't have a phone. New! June 17/10
To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report
E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Apr 22, 2010; 10:42PM - Steelhead and Chinook same day
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
Noel Gyger - WEEKLY FISHING REPORTS for Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat and Prince Rupert for the week of April 18, 2010
Dear Fishing Friends:
The photo of the week shows pro angling guide Tracey Hittel helping the lady hold up her huge Chinook (King) Salmon. This fish was landed last season and 'is' a reminder that the BIG fish will be here soon. Actually, they are in the lower Skeena River now. Tracey's choice of gear is G-Loomis rod, Ambassadeur 7000 reel, 40lb Maxima Ultra Green line, Gibbs float and Gamakatsu hook. Start making your plans to come out and enjoy now!
BOOK NOW! Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions.
SUMMARY: Weather has been good all week. The air is fresh with the smell of spring. Earlier in the week, the air temperatures were lower than average. This caused water levels to fall to extreme lows, which is not good for fishing but by Thursday the water was on the rise again. Just what we needed. Fishing for Steelhead, Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout and Dolly Varden Char is fair using both fly, spin and conventional gear. The Chinook (King) Salmon will be here any day now. I have caught them as early as April 20 on the Kalum River. The Skeena River was on the rise by mid week and fishing for Steelhead and Trout is fair. I have reports of Chinook landed at China Bar! The lower end of the Zymoetz (Copper) River is fishing fair for Steelhead and Trout. The Kalum River is fishing fair for Steelhead. The water has been dropping and cleaning due to the cooler weather mid week. On Thursday the water was very, very low and tea coloured. Check below for more details on the Kalum River. The Kitimat River was low mid week but is now on the rise bringing in some fresh Steelhead and scattering the Trout. Check out the Ron Wakita report below. Chinook fishing in the Kitimat Harbour is poor right now and is weather dependent. Crab (Dungeness and King) fishing is excellent. Ocean Chinook and Halibut fishing in Prince Rupert is good. Check out the Jeff Carlson report below. The Smithers anglers are anxiously awaiting the arrival of the Bulkley River summer-run Steelhead. Jason Munday in Terrace reports fair Steelhead fishing. Trout and Dolly fishing is excellent also. Check out Jason's report below.
Welcome to Noel Gyger's video clips! Today's show is actually a slide show of some of the BEST fishing photos from 2009. All photos shown were a Photo of the Week. The slide show starts off with Steelhead, then Chinook (King) Salmon and ends with Coho (Silver) Salmon. Hope you enjoy the show. Click here for a direct link to the video. It is also listed on the Video webpage. Title: 2009 BEST photos and listed in category 2010 Steelhead Clips. Clip #0078. Plays for 5:10 minutes.
Contact me anytime to list your river or ocean front property. Retirement folks from around the world are looking for this type of investment where they can fish the rest of their lives and still be close to home! My FISHING REPORT AND WEBSITE has world wide reach.
Have “YOU” entered the following draw yet? Thank you to those who have. DRAW is end of this month!
Cast on link to view full size http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/win-a-FREE-driftboat-fishing-trip.doc?
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace. Please visit these shops to watch the shows.
BOOK NOW! Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions.
Many people book three trips per year to our area; one trip in the spring (March-April-May), one trip in the summer (June-July-August) and one trip in the fall (September-October-November). They love having the same guide but fishing for different fish in different areas.
Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, podcasts, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. I am at your service.
FISHING GUIDE REPORTS FOR THIS WEEK ARE FROM:
Ron Wakita, Ariel Kuppers, Todd Haynes, Gill McKean and Jeff Carlson
CURRENT REPORT and summary for Skeena and Tributaries:
TYPE OF FISH CAUGHT: Chinook, Steelhead, Trout and Dolly Varden Char for river. Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness and King Crab for ocean.
Thank you for using barbless hooks! (This is a BC fishing regulation)
FISHING THIS WEEK: FAIR
LARGEST FISH OF THE WEEK: River: estimate 14-pound Kalum River Steelhead. Ocean: estimate 50-pound Halibut from Prince Rupert.
WEATHER: Cloudy. 40 percent chance of showers. High 13. Sunrise 6:25 AM Sunset 8:42 PM. Today’s yearly average temperatures: Maximum 13 degrees. Minimum 2 degrees.
WEATHER REPORTS VIA TELEPHONE: Terrace 250-635-4192 Kitimat 250-632-7864 Prince Rupert 250-627-1155 Smithers 250-847-1958.
SKEENA RIVER: More and more anglers are fishing the mainstem Skeena River for Steelhead, Chinook (King) Salmon and Trout. Chinook were caught at Polymar Bar (lower Skeena) this week. The water is on the rise but still fishable.
KALUM RIVER: More anglers are heading out to try their luck fishing for Trout and Steelhead. Fishing has been reported as fair to good. The water is coming up slowly.
Apr 9-10-11-12 Hello Noel, A friend and I were recently in Terrace fishing the lower Kalum. The fishing was a little slow but the weather was awesome. We did manage to land a few nice chromers as well as some feisty trout. We tried many techniques from flies to float fishing pink worms and found our best luck was back trolling hot shots. Most of our hits were at the tail end of pools and beside log jams. In total we landed six Steelhead in the ten pound range and lost many others. They're sure good at spitting hooks. All in all it was an awesome trip. Until next time, tight lines and sharp hooks. Sincerely, Steven Coffey
Apr 15 I fished with Ron Wakita and Calvin Nigano for about four hours. Calvin owns Nikka Fishing & Marine http://nikka.ca/store/ in Richmond, BC. My plan was to cover about 20 pools or more with my jet-boat...but...I was very surprised when I got to the put-in. The water had dropped about eight inches since my last time out. I was expecting it to be up at least a foot. This meant I could only get to three pools. The water was also extremely clean, kind of a tea colour not the usual glacial green. Anyway, we fished as best we could. Calvin was the hot rod landing one Steelhead and big Bull Trout float fishing his favourite Loomis rod and Shimano Calcutta reel. I made a video clip of Calvin's 1st Kalum River Steelhead and Bull Trout. I will post the Steelhead one next week. Stay tuned.
Apr. 17 Calvin Nigano did a 'walk and wade' to three pools. He reports hooking about four Steelhead and landed one that weighed around 14-pounds.
ZYMOETZ (COPPER) RIVER: Steelhead fishing is reported as fair. The upper section is closed as of December 31 but the lower section below the first canyon will stay open for Steelheaders to enjoy.
Fishing Report from: Gill McKean of Westcoast Fishing Adventures, Terrace BC
Hello Noel, fishing has been a little up and a little down. We just finished up with a large group from the UK, great guys, all spey casters with various “skill” levels. The guides worked hard with the water we had and had success. Someone in the group hooked multiple steelhead on the fly every day. There seemed to be incredible numbers of Dollies everywhere we went. Never had such trout action! The Chinook are on the move. We spent a few days on the lower Skeena hooking a couple of steelhead & “dollies”. We saw Chinook rolling but no hook ups, just a matter of time. The weather has warmed up a little and looks as though we are going to get some run-off. This should get the rest of the steelhead on the move as well as bring the Chinook in!!
Still have some dates open for the up coming Chinook season. Prime time last two weeks in June through July and August.
Please contact Noel to book your preferred dates. Thank you.
Hope your well. Tight lines to all !!! Sincerely, Gill McKean
Fishing is our addiction – Guiding is our passion - Adventure is in our blood
Fishing Report from: Todd Haynes of Nautical West Sport Fishing, Kitimat BC
Summary: Fishing conditions continue to be very good for Trout and Steelhead fishing on most local rivers. Weather over the past week has been very warm with temperatures reaching the upper teens for most of the week. River heights have been stable and flowing low and clear. Trout numbers are very good in the Kitimat and Lakelse rivers with more Steelhead entering the systems daily. Ocean fishing is fair to good for bottom fishing.
Report for April 11 - 17: FRESHWATER FISHING is the most popular at this time of year for Trout and Steelhead fishermen. Weather conditions over the past week were exceptionally good along the north coast. All the local rivers have been busy with fishers on the hunt for fresh run BC Steelhead and Trout. The Kalum River continues to fish well now with fresh run fish being caught on both the upper and lower sections. Lakelse River reports are great for Trout and a few numbers of Steelhead showing. Lakelse is extremely popular for fly-fishers in early spring. The mainstream Skeena is in great condition and early spring Chinook fishing is now underway. Kitimat River fishing has seen plenty of fishers over the past week with a fair number of Steelhead and Trout being caught throughout the river system. The low and clear water conditions has most fishers anticipating the rain forecast for the coming week. OCEAN FISHING conditions are fair now. Bottom fishing for Halibut, Cod, Crab, Shrimp and Prawns are the main target species. The first weeks of May should see some good catches of spring Chinooks arriving in the Kitimat Harbour. * REMINDER NOTICE to out of town boaters coming to Kitimat this year. The Moon Bay Marina is being closed this April 1st, 2010. For more information, please follow the link provided here: http://www.kitimatdaily.ca/show2491a/RTAS_CONTRADICTORY_ENVIRONMENTAL_POLICY
Please contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca to book your next Adventure with Todd Haynes
Fishing Report from: Ron Wakita of Reliable Guide and Charters, Kitimat BC
KITIMAT RIVER: the river continued to be exceptionally low and clean during the early part of this week Steelheading on the Kitimat was at best very spotty and she was very difficult to drift with our Drift boats. The Kitimat River was so low that you could almost wade across the river in 'Gum boots'. The Steelhead fishing was very tough but there were Steelhead caught throughout the Kitimat but the low water conditions definitely had a negative effect on the fishing results. The lower Kitimat had better results especially on the tide.
April 11 James Wright landed a 13lb Bright Steelhead in the Lower Kitimat River. James was Float fishing with Roe.
April 12 James Wright landed a Steelhead at the Kitimat River Hatchery run. Congratulations James.
April 12 Derek Downey landed a Steelhead in the upper Kitimat. Derek was Fly fishing and was pretty excited given the low water conditions.
April 17 A group from Valmont led by Wayne Van Velzen and his son Eric landed a Steelhead above the Powerlines and lost another 2 Steelhead.
April 17 I had the pleasure of fishing with my son Brandon and very good friend Doug Rumley. Also in the group was Athan, a summer student who worked in our tackle shop last summer. We did a short drift on the Kitimat on Saturday with the welcomed rise in the river level with pretty good results. We hooked 3 Steelhead and landed one....the last one! Doug Rumley landed this beauty. Well done Doug!
Summary: Trout fishing continued to be very good on the Kitimat River even though the river was so low. The Trout were in the deeper pools and for the anglers who found them, the Trout fishing was outstanding. The trick was to find them. Ariel Kuppers, Justin Lowes, Trent Vines and their group of fishing partners have fine tuned the art of Trout fishing on the Kitimat. They are catching 20 to 30 Trout on their outings. They catch and release all the Trout back into the Kitimat River.
The Kitimat River rose 12' on Friday due to some hot weather we received and then continued to rise on Saturday due to some rain. The forecast is for more rain which would improve fishing conditions and entice more fresh Steelhead into the Kitimat River. I plan to drift tomorrow with very positive expectations. Stay tuned.
DOUGLAS CHANNEL: We have received many reports of boaters catching bottomfish, Prawns and Crab on the Douglas Channel. We have not received any photos of these bottomfish to share in this report this week. Anglers who wish to submit photos to this fishing report please email them to me at wakita@telus.net Please submit these photos with the names of the participants and the details of your trip.
Saltwater anglers usually fillet out their catch to utilize the carcasses for Crab bait. Sometimes digital cameras are not readily available. Please be reminded to use the camera on your cell to capture the moment.
I look forward to receiving photos of your catch to share with many other interested anglers. I think we are indeed fortunate to live in an area where we have such awesome fishing almost in our front yard. To be able to do this in the pristine and stock abundant waters of the Douglas Channel leaves me feeling truly blessed. It would be wonderful to share the stories of your catch with other anglers in the vast reaches of the internet.
Apr 22 Special Report: I had the pleasure of fishing with my very good friends Noel Gyger and Calvin Higano on the Kalum River. Although the river was very low as are most of the rivers in the Northwest, Calvin landed a very nice Steelhead and a Huge Dolly Varden. It was a pleasure for Noel and I to share the experience of fishing in the North West with Calvin who resides in the Lower Mainland. A Big Thank You to Noel for sharing his infinite knowledge of the Kalum and for taking us out in his jet-boat. It was a great morning of fishing!
Thank You to everyone who provided photos and info for this report. It is nice when anglers are willing to share their experiences for the enjoyment of the readers of this report.
Good Health and Good Fishing!
Sincerely
Ron Wakita
PS Any angler wishing to book our Guide and Charter Services please contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
Fishing Report from: J & E Tackle Shop, Prince Rupert BC
Hi Noel, more and more reports of some nice fish being caught in the Prince Rupert area. These fish are starting to show in numbers and are starting to make their migration to the Skeena River with reports of Chinook’s of 25lbs being caught on Polymar (China bar). Anglers are starting to get all hyped-up with more and more stories of Chinook (King) Salmon over 20lbs being caught. Crabbing and Prawning has been awesome in the past week. Now is the time to take to the water and enjoy our North Coast Playground. BOOK your charter date now!
To book your charter for Salmon, Halibut and Bottom Fish onboard the Trish-Anne please contact Jeff Carlson of BC STYLE Fishing Charters www.bcstylefishingcharters.com
Tight Lines and see you on the water.
Jeff Carlson - owner
Fishing Report from: Fish Tales Tackle Shop, Terrace BC
Hello Noel! Sorry I am late with the report but I had to go fishing with my son Aaron to get some info. Aaron and I left the house this morning at 6:00am to go try our luck. We were down on the Lakelse. As soon as we were at rivers edge the trout were jumping all around. It was so nice and peaceful that time of day! The water level is VERY low but still enough to fish ok. It will be nice to see the water come up a bit. The fry hatch is in full swing as we saw lot's of the little guy's. The fish were a little harder to find this time because of the water being so low but we did find them. We had a great time catching & releasing trout. I searched to see if I could spot some Steelhead spawning but not this time. We caught and released a lot of small Cutty's but we found our fair share of nice ones also. There has been a ton of reports of catching large Dolly's and big Cutty's on the Skeena. Fishers are picking up the odd spring and Steelhead. Happy Fishing to all from Fish Tales Fly & Tackle Shop!!
Cheers!
Jason Munday
Fish Tales would like to take the opportunity to WELCOME Simms into our store. We now carry a solid Simms product line and growing. Fish Tales invites everyone to come in and check out our store display of this top quality product. Comfort is key for a great day on the river!!
Happy Fishing to all from Fish Tales Fly & Tackle Shop!!
Out of town orders are always welcome. Come in for a coffee anytime.
Cheers!
Jason Munday
Fishing Report from: Cory Koenig of Webflyz, Smithers BC
Today is the Day!! Off to Kitimat to fish with Todd Haynes of Nautical West Sport Fishing!!!
Hello everyone! I am off today to see how many steelhead are in the Kitimat River!
Cory Koenig is takingcustom fly orders for any species now at www.webflyz.com
Highest Quality, Durable, and Competitively Priced Flies for any Species!
CHECK OUT THIS AWESOME ROOSTERFISH FLY ON UTUBE HERE http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bwAxjRf5fI
Look for awesome flies, the best discussions, and everything you need to know about SPEY fishing with Webflyz B.C.'s latest sponsor, Dana Sturn, founder of SPEY CLAVE!!!
Webflyz B.C. is also sponsoring flies for 25 year founder of Fins and Skins Media group, along with Hosting Fins and Skins http://www.finsandskins.com/index.php and Fishing the Flats http://www.fishingtheflats.com/index.php?module=newser&func=display&topicnum=&nid=106&writer=0 television shows Henry Waszczuk! COMING IN JUNE on FOX SPORTS and JULY on TSN!!!. Look for beautiful salt and fresh water species being caught by Henry with Webflyz B.C.flies!!!
Currently, I am pushing lodge, internet and local orders out the door for anglers around the world. In between orders I am stock piling Rainbow Alley Flies, STEELHEAD flies, Coho Jigs, and BIG trophy trout flies for Lodges on Great Slave Lake and the YUKON!
I will try to cast a line in at Lake Kathlyn today for cutthroat and rainbow, eating most any baitfish imitations you may have! Check out GUMMY MINNOWS and LEECHES for great success, especially for sea-run trout!
Babine Lake still has ice on it, but many an angler are awaiting the seasonal CHAR and RAINBOW fishery this MAY/JUNE! There are many small lakes around Tukkii Lodge and the Nilkitkwa road and the entire Babine Lake road leading up to BabineLake are filled with an abundance of cutthroat and rainbows. We have many fishing opportunities in the Bulkley Valley, time to take advantage! Check Ebay for even better prices on excess stock of flies by WEBFLYZ B.C.
... Need CHAR, BULLTROUT, or PIKE catching flies? How about TOUGH CHINOOK INTRUDERS???Then look at webflyz.com or give me a call 1-250-877-2021 or, ...if you are in need of lures or anything else for ice-fishing, contact Steve Hidber at Oscar's Source for Sports http://www.oscarssports.com/
Anticipation is definitely on spring fishing in the Terrace/Kitimat area for steelhead. Many new anglers/customers are asking about this years steelhead fishing in our beautiful province!
No time to tie flies? Check out Webflyz B.C.! Any flies can be custom made for your specific fishing situation.
Contact Cory at WEBFLYZ B.C. www.webflyz.com for ice-fishing flies and more.
Check newly added fly photos at www.webflyz.com or... if you are planning a trip to hotter destinations like Belize, Mexico, Bahamas, or even the Cayman Islands check out WEBFLYZ B.C.'s website for select boxed flies that are working for many anglers right now!!! Bonefish, Tarpon, Permit and Stripers are sought after at the moment! From Steelhead to Jack Crevale, Salmon to Marlin, this years' fishing has already begun in some of the lower 48 states!
Check your 2009-2011 Freshwater fishing Regulations synopsis for all details concerning B.C. Lakes and upcoming spring/summer steelhead fishing in Region 6.
Good luck everyone. Yours sincerely, Cory Koenig
PRODUCT PROFILE Blue Fox Products www.rapala.ca
Legendary Blue Fox Quality is apparent in every fishing lure and accessory.
This collection of true performers will be sure to energize your fishing experience every time.
Reflecting on the past 25 years, they are comfortable with the position Blue Fox has established in the fishing tackle industry - not the largest, but one of the best. 'Smart Like A Fox' are the words they live by.
They understand the intricacies and nuances of sportfishing and develop innovative, niche products best in their categories. In fact, several Blue Fox products are designed for specific applications - spinnerbaits for bass, jigs for crappies, bucktails for musky and spoons for salmon
In these niches, they are the best! Their innovative features and level of quality are unmatched by their competition.
Blue Fox Dealers in the Northwest: City Centre Hardware and Sporting Goods in Kitimat, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace
GUEST FISHING PHOTOS:
*** If any of you have special fishing photos, testimonials, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them.
Hi Noel, here's some pics of Gord Klassen and Bob Wright fishing out of Prince Rupert on April 10 and 11. Still a little rough, Nor'easter blowing all weekend.
Catch & Release formula:
- Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches)
- Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches
Fiberglass fish reproductions - This 42 x 23.5 inch Steelhead was estimated to weigh 30-pounds. There are many sizes and positions available, and pretty much any species. Call Carey Braun anytime at 250-639-3769 and he will be happy to build one for you. Yes, that’s Carey in the photo. Place your order NOW
WIN a FREE one day DRIFT BOAT FISHING TRIP down the Kitimat River for three people by signing-up your friends, family and fishing partners for my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT. This trip is supplied by Reliable Guide and Charters and is for the 2010 season. The LUCKY WINNER will be drawn on April 30, 2010. Cast to this link to open a form showing how to enter names. Send the completed form via e-mail or postal mail. When I receive it I will reply confirming your name is entered into the draw - GOOD LUCK
___________________________________________
MARKETPLACE Sportfishing related items only please. Contact me anytime to list your items. Here is the latest posting:
For Sale: Unique waterfront property 20+ acres on the Skeena River, 7 km east of Terrace BC. Cozy custom built log home w/ loft, wrap around deck, solar power. Walk the trails through park like setting to the famous Kitselas fishing bar on the Skeena River. $235,000
Phone: 250-639-9001 or E-mail: natalie.chimko@hotmail.com New! April 6, 2010 (ideal location for a fishing lodge)
Buy, sell, trade or swap your item or items by listing them here today
Your Ad will receive LOCAL, REGIONAL, NATIONAL and INTERNATIONAL exposure:
• Your Ad will be posted on my website
• Your Ad will be promoted in my Weekly Fishing Reports
• Your Ad will be posted on other websites who host my fishing reports
Examples of what to list: Boats and accessories, Motors, Vehicles, Air Craft, Rods, Reels, Tackle, Real Estate (i.e. river front/view property), Rentals (Cabins Cottages), Lakeshore, Tourist accommodation, ATV, RV's, RV sites, Taxidermy, Books, Magazines, Videos, Photographs, Antiques, Artwork, Clothing, Employment, Trade/Swap and Wanted, Help Wanted, etc.
To view the items currently listed please cast to: http://www.noelgyger.ca/market-place.htm
To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report
4012 Best Street, Terrace BC V8G 5R8, Canada
Tel/Fax: (250) 635-2568
Cell: (250) 631-2678
E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
Home Page: www.noelgyger.ca
Fishing Reports: www.noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htm
Sign-up for Weekly Fishing Report: www.noelgyger.ca/subscribers_form.htm for Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat and Prince Rupert
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Mar 4, 2010; 09:09AM - Skeena River Regional Fishing Report
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
The photo of the week shows Dan Berg and his dad Norris with a nice Kalum River Chinook (King) Salmon landed a couple of years ago in the spring. The fish was quickly released after this photo was taken. This photo reminds us these beautiful fish will be coming soon. Have you booked your trip yet? The Kalum River is unique to have such an early run. Chinook and Steelhead caught on the same day is not uncommon.
Noel Gyger - WEEKLY FISHING REPORTS for Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat and Prince Rupert
February 21 to February 28, 2010
Number 162
Dear Fishing Friends:
SUMMARY: Weather is good but with scattered showers. Temperatures have been a little above average. More anglers are fishing for Cutthroat Trout, Dolly Varden Char and Steelhead using both fly, spin and conventional gear. The water is extremely low. The fish are spooked so a stealthy approach is needed to catch them. Using smaller terminal tackle is a good idea also. The lower end of the Zymoetz (Copper) River is fishing good for Steelhead and Trout. The Kalum River is fishing fair for Steelhead but you have to work hard to find them. Trout fishing is slow. It is mostly walk and wade as the water is too low for a jet boat. The Kitimat River is in good shape and fishing fair for Cutthroat Trout. The odd Steelhead is being caught also. Check out the Ron Wakita report below. Winter Chinook fishing in the Kitimat Harbour and Douglas Channel is poor right now and is weather dependent. Winter ocean Chinook fishing in Prince Rupert is good when the weather is good. Check out the Jeff Carlson report below. Lake ice fishing is slowing down in the Smithers area due to the warmer weather. Check out the Cory Koenig report below. Jason Munday in Terrace reports a few Steelhead landed on the Kalum River. Check out his report below. The main stem Skeena River is getting some action for Steelhead. There is a possibility to hook a Chinook also. I tried a little Trout fishing myself. Check out the video clip below. The fishing guides are preparing to start their season on March 15 on the Kalum River. Guiding is allowed on the Kalum River from March 15 to October 15.
February 25, 2010 One 'New' clip posted on Video Clips:
Dustin Kovacvich, head guide for Nicholas Dean Lodge and I went fly fishing for Trout on a small Skeena River tributary on Wednesday, February 24, 2010. Dustin caught a Bull Trout on his first cast...no kidding. We hooked a half dozen fish in less than three hours. If you want to learn 'how-to' catch Trout (Bull Trout, Dolly Varden Char, Cutthroat and Rainbow) on a 5/6 weight fly rod you need to watch this video. Click here for a direct link to the video It is also listed on the Video webpage. Title: Bull and Cutthroat Trout and listed in category Tips and Techniques. Clip #0079. Plays for 9:07 minutes.
Have “YOU” entered the following draw yet? Thank you to those who have...
Cast on link to view full size http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/win-a-FREE-driftboat-fishing-trip.doc?
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace. Please visit these shops to watch the shows.
NOW BOOKING for 2010: Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions and concerns. Cast here http://noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm to read more of what I have to offer.
*** Don’t miss the opportunity to be guided for Steelhead on the Kalum River the last two weeks in March 2010. Season opener begins March 15th. Please contact me for details... Limited spots available...
Many people book three trips per year to our area; one trip in the spring (March-April-May), one trip in the summer (June-July-August) and one trip in the fall (September-October-November). They love having the same guide but fishing for different fish in different areas.
Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, podcasts, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. I am at your service.
FISHING GUIDE REPORTS FOR THIS WEEK ARE FROM:
Ron Wakita, Glen Kilcup, Ariel Kuppers, Dustin Kovacvich and Jeff Carlson
CURRENT REPORT and summary for Skeena and Tributaries:
TYPE OF FISH CAUGHT: Steelhead, Trout and Dolly Varden Char for river. Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness Crab for ocean.
Thank you for using barbless hooks! (This is a BC fishing regulation)
FISHING THIS WEEK: GOOD
WEATHER: Cloudy. A few flurries beginning early this morning changing to periods of rain this morning. High 6. Sunrise 7:26 AM Sunset 6:07 PM. Today’s yearly average temperatures: Maximum 5 degrees. Minimum - 2 degrees.
WEATHER REPORTS VIA TELEPHONE: Terrace 250-635-4192 Kitimat 250-632-7864 Prince Rupert 250-627-1155 Smithers 250-847-1958.
SKEENA RIVER: More and more anglers are fishing the mainstem Skeena River for Steelhead. Some folks have been having great success. The water has come up a little bit which should move in more Steelhead and Chinook, yes I said Chinook.
KALUM RIVER: Since the weather is good more anglers are heading out to try their luck fishing for Trout and Steelhead. Anglers are reminded of a bait ban January 1 to March 15. Fishing has been reported as fair. The water is very low and the fish are spooked in the shallow sections. Try to fish in the deep cut-banks. Trout fishing has been OK...but has really slowed down...as a result of the bait ban.
ZYMOETZ (COPPER) RIVER: Steelhead fishing is reported as fair. The upper section is closed as of December 31 but the lower section below the first canyon will stay open for the winter Steelheaders to enjoy.
Fishing Report from: Ron Wakita of Reliable Guide and Charters, Kitimat BC
KITIMAT RIVER: Typical for this time of year in the North West we received a mix of weather conditions. We had some rainy days, some sunny clear days and even a little snow but the Trout fishing continues to be good.
Feb 21 Martin Golhke landed a 15lb Steelhead under the Haisla Bridge. Martin was excited describing his first Steelhead of the year. Congratulations Martin!
Feb 23 Ariel Kuppers landed this Kitimat River Dolly Varden on his Fly Rod using a pink worm pattern. Ariel was fishing with his Dragonfly 9` 7 wt Rod and his Dragonfly Expedition 7/8 Fly reel. A 5wt Rod is better suited for Trout but this time of year there is always the potential of hooking a Steelhead. A 7wt would give Ariel a better chance of landing a Steelhead than a 5 wt which is why he used his 7wt rod.
Feb 24 Ariel Kuppers fly fishing the upper Kitimat landed a couple more Dolly Varden on a Fly. It snowed in the morning but Ariel said, 'it was really nice and sunny when he was out fishing' It was nice to catch Trout but I think Ariel may also be looking for an early Steelhead on his Fly rod.
SUMMARY: There was a few Steelhead landed and a few lost this week. Trout fishing will continue to be good and we can expect more Steelhead on the Kitimat as we head into March. Steelhead catch numbers on the Kitimat River can be outstanding in peak season. With enhancement of Steelhead by the Kitimat River Hatchery we are fortunate to have one the best Spring Steelhead Fisheries in the area. Stay Tuned!
DOUGLAS CHANNEL: Herring have been reported in the Kitimat Harbour more frequently this week but we still have not received many reports of Winter Chinook being caught.
We should be getting better results but I can only report the fishing as it is, is not how we would like it to be. A couple of boats went down to the outer waters for the weekend looking for some King Crab. Justin Lowes who is one of our Tackle store staff is in this group so I will share his results in this Fishing Report.
Thank You to everyone who has provided info or photos for this Fishing Report.
PS: We are booking for the 2010 Fishing Season. Please contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca
Fishing Report from: Fishawk Guiding, Kitimat/Terrace BC
Hi Noel, this weekend I took Mike Primeau and Todd Henry out to Prince Rupert, BC on the ocean and despite gale force wind warnings all week, which were false (it had been glass smooth out there for at least 3 days prior to our outing ) we had a great day. We bottom fished a few spots and got into a few quillback rockfish and we all caught a few big sculpins (bullheads)
Our plan for the day was to troll for springs. Mike nailed this nice little Halibut while trolling our spring spot and not too long after, I hit my spring. The day was calm all day which was quite rare for Rupert and fishing was a success. Calcutta reels and Berkley big game were the days choice of tools. Luhr Jensen flashers with rolling anchovies worked for the trolling. Jigging heavy buzz bombs caught the rest. Going out again soon...you should jump in sometime Noel! Tight lines Glen Kilcup, Fishawk Guiding
Fishing Report from: Fishing Report from: J & E Tackle Shop, Prince Rupert BC
Hi Noel, I have had a few reports of folks catching some Winter Springs. With the nice weather it has been windy at times. When the weather is not co-operative, the Prawning and Crabbing is a good alternative and is usually very productive this time of the year. Take advantage when the weather is nice and take to the water. Tight Lines and enjoy our North Pacific Playground
To book your charter for Winter Chinook onboard the Trish-Anne please contact Jeff Carlson of BC STYLE Fishing Charters www.bcstylefishingcharters.com
Thanks. Jeff Carlson – owner
Fishing Report from: Fish Tales Tackle Shop, Terrace BC
Hello Noel, well the weeks are passing fast. It will be spring before we know it. This week I have Willie McCleary with another beautiful Steelhead!! Caught on the Kalum. He was using a Sage RPL+ 8110-4, Islander FR #2 , Scientific Angler WF8 line and Seagar fluorocarbon leader. On the end of that was a Black Wooly Bugger. Awesome Willie! Good job! Thanks to his Trophy XL waterproof fishing jacket he was able to stay warm and dry for this great day on the river! Well fishers, get out there fishin and enjoy this awesome weather! Happy Fishing to all from Fish Tales Fly & Tackle Shop!!
Cheers! Jason Munday - manager
Everyone is invited to check out our New! instore flyer http://www.noelgyger.ca/ads/fish-tales-instore-flyer.pdf Out of town orders are always welcome. Come in for a coffee anytime.
Fishing Report from: Cory Koenig of Webflyz, Smithers BC
Cory Koenig is taking custom fly orders for any species now at www.webflyz.com
Highest Quality, Durable, and Competitively Priced Flies for any Species!
Hello Noel, Spring is near, and the Olympics are almost done. GOLD CANADA GOLD!!! In the excitement, I have made some Olympic Medal flies that are sure to catch fish! Using the ever popular BLUE for steelhead, these flies were created!
http://www.webflyz.com/fishing-resources/fly-talk.html is where you can view the GOLD, SILVER, and BRONZE medal flies!
Nothing much to report, except I am sure everyone is tying flies these days for a great anticipated spring steelhead trip very soon!
There is some great opportunities to ice-fish for large char in the Smithers/Houston area though, eating most any baitfish imitations you may have! Check out GUMMY MINNOWS for great success, especially for sea-run trout!
Babine Lake has provided some decent char and rainbow trout ice fishing, although the ice is becoming submerged with water. Many small lakes around Tukkii Lodge and the Nilkitkwa road and the entire Babine Lake road leading up to Babine Lake are filled with an abundance of cutthroat and rainbows. Weather has been very good for ice fishing this past week, but getting anglers out there is a different story. We have an abundance of fishing opportunities in the Bulkley Valley, time to take advantage! Spring is near, and many anglers are very itchy for spring steelhead fishing!
... Need CHAR catching flies? Then look at webflyz.com or give me a call 1-250-877-2021 or, ...if you are in need of lures or anything else for ice-fishing, contact Steve Hidber at Oscar's Source for Sports.
Anticipation is definitely on spring fishing in the Terrace area for steelhead. Many new anglers/customers are asking about this years steelhead fishing in our beautiful province!
Do you need to top up your fly box?!?! Sick of tying flies yourself? Check out Webflyz B.C.! Any flies can be custom made for your specific fishing situation.
Contact Cory at WEBFLYZ B.C. www.webflyz.com for ice-fishing flies and more.
Check newly added fly photos at www.webflyz.com or... if you are planning a trip to hotter destinations like Belize, Mexico, Bahamas, or even the Cayman Islands check out WEBFLYZ B.C.'s website for select boxed flies that are working for many anglers right now!!! Bonefish and Stripers are sought after at the moment! From Steelhead to Stripers, Salmon to Sailfish, this fishing year has already begun in some of the warmer states!
Check your 2009-2011 Freshwater fishing Regulations synopsis for all details concerning B.C. Lakes and upcoming spring/summer steelhead fishing in Region 6.
Good luck everyone. Yours sincerely, Cory Koenig
PRODUCT PROFILE Islander Reels www.islander.com
Manufacture of World-Class and Specialty Fishing Reels
Islander Reels has been manufacturing precision Center Pin, Fly and Mooching reels for over 15 years as a division of The J.S. Foster Corporation of Saanichton, near Victoria, B.C., Canada.
'In order to land the big fish you need a reel that you can depend on, a reel that will hold its own in the face of a challenge. For over 15 years Islander Reels have been put to the test in some of the most extreme sports fishing conditions in the world. In our constant quest for perfection, Islander Reels have evolved into the best reels on the market. From detailed design and ingenious machining to the final finishing touch, Islander Reels have been built to last, built to excel and built to provide you with the fishing experience of a lifetime.'
Islander Reels is the Number One choice of Professional Guides in the North West.
Islander Dealers in the Northwest: City Centre Hardware and Sporting Goods in Kitimat, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace
Contact info: Islander Precision Reels 6771 Kirkpatrick Crescent Saanichton B.C. V8M1Z8 Canada Phone 250-544-4856 Fax: 250-544-1450 www.islander.com
AREA RIVER RECORDS: Chinook Salmon: Skeena River, 92.5-pounds; Kalum River, 85-pounds; Kitimat River, 74-pounds; Steelhead: Skeena River, 45-pounds; Coho Salmon: Skeena River, 27-pounds.
FISHING REGULATIONS WEBSITES:
2009-2011 BC tidal waters and non-tidal (Federal) Salmon fishing information:
www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfish
Effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011
2009-2011 Freshwater (Provincial) Fishing Regulations Synopsis:
www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish
Effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011 (Note: regs good for two years)
GUEST FISHING PHOTOS:
*** If any of you have special fishing photos, testimonials, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them.
Catch & Release formula:
- Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches)
- Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches
Fiberglass fish reproductions
This 42 x 23.5 inch Steelhead was estimated to weigh 30-pounds. There are many sizes and positions available, and pretty much any species. Call Carey Braun anytime at 250-639-3769 and he will be happy to build one for you. Yes, that’s Carey in the photo. Place your order NOW
WIN a FREE one day DRIFT BOAT FISHING TRIP down the Kitimat River for three people by signing-up your friends, family and fishing partners for my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT. This trip is supplied by Reliable Guide and Charters and is for the 2010 season. The LUCKY WINNER will be drawn on April 30, 2010. Cast to this link to open a form showing how to enter names. Send the completed form via e-mail or postal mail. When I receive it I will reply confirming your name is entered into the draw - GOOD LUCK
To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report
4012 Best Street, Terrace BC V8G 5R8, Canada
Tel/Fax: (250) 635-2568
Cell: (250) 631-2678
E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
Home Page: www.noelgyger.ca
Fishing Reports: www.noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htm
RECORD SALMON & STEELHEAD Spin or fly-fishing
RIVER, LAKE, STREAM or OCEAN!!!
Follow Noel Gyger updates on Twitter: http://twitter.com/guided_fishing |
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Feb 8, 2010; 11:41AM - Winter Steelhead and more...
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
The photo of the week shows pro angling guide Gord McKean of Westcoast Fishing Adventures holding his clients, Craig Freas, wild Steelhead landed last season. Craig was spey fishing when he caught this beauty. The fish measured 39.5 inches long.
Noel Gyger - WEEKLY FISHING REPORTS for Smithers, Terrace, Kitimat and Prince Rupert
January 31 to February 7, 2010
Number 161
Dear Fishing Friends:
SUMMARY: Weather has been good all week with continued warmer than normal daytime temperatures. The river heights have been dropping steadily and the water is in good shape for fishing. Lots of folks are heading out for some winter Cutthroat Trout, Dolly Varden Char and Steelhead fishing with both fly and conventional gear. The upper end of the Zymoetz (Copper) River is closed to angling (as of December 31, 2009) to protect the “wintering over” wild Steelhead. To be clear just the upper reaches of the river are closed but one still may angle on the very low end, just make sure you fish below the boundary at the first canyon. The water has been open, free of flowing ice all week. I heard Steelhead fishing is good, especially on the fly rods. Trout and Dolly Varden Char are also being caught. The Kalum River is open to angling all winter. The Kitimat River is in good shape and is open all winter for fishing. Cutthroat Trout are the usual target but a few Steelhead have been hooked also. Covering lots of water with pontoon boats is the ticket. Check out the Ron Wakita report below. Winter Chinook fishing in the Kitimat Harbour and Douglas Channel is good right now but is weather dependent. Winter Chinook fishing in Prince Rupert is great when the weather is good. It has been windy most of the week. Check out the Jeff Carlson report below. Lake ice fishing is slowing down due to the warmer weather we've had and a fear of thin ice. Smithers reports slower than normal ice fishing also. Check out the Cory Koenig report below. Jason Munday in Terrace reports fishing is really starting to pick up due to the warmer weather, check out his report below. The fishing guides are preparing to start their season on March 15 on the Kalum River. Guiding is allowed on the Kalum River from March 15 to October 15.
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace. Please visit these shops to watch the shows.
NOW BOOKING for 2010: Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions and concerns. Cast here http://noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm to read more of what I have to offer.
*** Don’t miss the opportunity to be guided for Steelhead on the Kalum River the last two weeks in March 2010. Season opener begins March 15th. Please contact me for details. Limited spots available!
Many people book three trips per year to our area; one trip in the spring (March-April-May), one trip in the summer (June-July-August) and one trip in the fall (September-October-November). They love having the same guide but fishing for different fish in different areas.
Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, podcasts, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. I am at your service.
CURRENT REPORT and summary for Skeena and Tributaries:
TYPE OF FISH CAUGHT: Steelhead, Trout and Dolly Varden Char for river. Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness Crab for ocean.
FISHING THIS WEEK: GOOD
WEATHER: Cloudy with 60 percent chance of rain showers or wet flurries. High plus 2. Sunrise 8:12 AM Sunset 5:25 PM. Today’s yearly average temperatures: Maximum 2 degrees. Minimum - 4 degrees.
WEATHER REPORTS VIA TELEPHONE: Terrace 250-635-4192 Kitimat 250-632-7864 Prince Rupert 250-627-1155 Smithers 250-847-1958.
SKEENA RIVER: The Skeena River is frozen over in places. More anglers are getting out to fish the open water. An early run of spring Steelhead should be coming in now.
Skeena River height: http://scitech.pyr.ec.gc.ca/waterweb/fullgraph.asp
Department of Fisheries and Oceans (DFO): Tyee Test Fishery for the Skeena River.
KALUM RIVER: Since the weather has warmed up more anglers are heading out to try their luck fishing for Trout and Steelhead. Anglers are reminded of a bait ban January 1 to March 15. Fishing has been reported as slow. I heard one has to work hard to find and catch a Steelhead. Trout fishing has been OK...but has really slowed down...as a result of the bait ban.
ZYMOETZ (COPPER) RIVER: Steelhead fishing is reported as good. The upper section is closed as of December 31 but the lower section below the first canyon will stay open for the winter Steelheaders to enjoy.
Fishing Report from: Ron Wakita of Reliable Guide and Charters, Kitimat BC
Cast on link below to view New! flyer: http://www.noelgyger.ca/images/Instore_Flyer_Oct_2009.pdf
KITIMAT RIVER: The Ground Hog apparently saw his shadow but the Ground Hog theory definetly did not apply to the weather we received this week in Kitimat. We received Spring weather for most of the week and many anglers took advantage of the weather and did some Trout fishing on the Kitimat River.
Jan 31 Pat Dufrene caught another 9 Trout and a small Steelhead on the Upper Kitimat River. Wow! Congratulations Pat.
Feb 1 Justin Lowes, Mike Campbell and Travis James caught 7 Trout on the upper Kitimat River. They were float fishing a Gibbs Float with a 3' Berkley Power Bait pink worm with a piece of Bubba's Bait dew worm. This rig is referred to by locals as the 'Worm Combo'.
Feb 2 Ariel Kupper, Justin Lowes, Trent Vines and Jeremy Torres drifted the upper Kitimat River with their South Fork Pontoon Boats. They only landed 2 Trout and lost a couple more. Ariel said 'It was a beautiful day to drift in their pontoon boats, in fact we nicknamed ourselves Team Southfork'. There were lots of fishermen out fishing. 'Almost every hole had people in them', commented Ariel.
Feb 4 Kyree Dos Santos released a small wild Steelhead on the bottom of the Hatchery Island.
Feb 5 Jesse Houston landed 3 Dolly Varden on the Kitimat River. Well done Jesse!
Summary The weather has been exceptional for this time of year and the fishing conditions have also been very good. If the nice weather continues more anglers will continue to get out fishing especially with reports of some Steelhead being caught. The Steelhead that have been caught are small, there have been more caught than usual. I hope this is an indication of the main Steelhead run in April.
DOUGLAS CHANNEL: The awesome weather we received also provided excellent conditions for fishing in the Douglas Channel. There were a few boats out fishing especially now that Halibut is open. The Kitimat Harbour is producing the odd Winter Chinook but the fishing has been spotty. I was out Saturday with my good friend Dale Barge and we hooked one Winter Chinook with a couple of other strikes but we did not land any. There were two Halibut reported by MK Bay Marina. A big one was reported to be hooked at Emsley Cove. The angler could not land the Halibut because his kids were to young to help him boat it. The other Halibut caught was 80lbs was at Coste Rocks. I am in the process of getting pictures and confirming these results. Stay Tuned!
Jan 31 Wes Owens trolled the Kitimat Harbour Sunday and landed a small Winter Chinook. Wes only caught the one Chinook but he shared his catch with his nephew Vince Sealy and his family. In Vince's own words, 'You can always count on Wes Owens ( or 'Uncle Wes' as he is known as in our household ) to bring home the first fresh fish feed of the year. We all certainly enjoyed this Winter Chinook Wes landed on January 31, 2010.' Bon Appetite
Summary The Herring should be coming in the harbour throughout February and more Winter Chinook will follow the Herring in. There is no specific time to when the Herring arrive, they just come whenever they show up. More boaters will also start to venture out as the weather improves and with Halibut now open.
Thank you to everyone for providing photos and info for this Fishing Report.
Good Health! Good Fishing!
Sincerely
Ron Wakita
PS: We are booking for the 2010 Fishing Season. Please contact Noel noel@noelgyger.ca
Fishing Report from: J & E Tackle Shop, Prince Rupert BC
I hoped to make it out Halibut fishing with a group of friends on Saturday Feb. 6th, but woke up to the winds howling out my bedroom window. The weather off of Triple Island was blowing 27nts and Lucy Island was 23nts, but the Prince Rupert Harbour was only 7nts. So I decided to change from Halibut fishing to a day of Prawning and Crabbing in the harbour. While we waited for the traps to soak for a few hours we decided to try our luck trolling for salmon through Tucks Narrows. Although we saw lots of signs i.e. Bait fish, birds and seals we weren’t able to get a single strike. The weather was great and the company even better, a day on the water can’t get any better. When it was time to pull the trap we weren’t disappointed. I invited everyone over to my place where we cooked up our feed of shrimp and crab. The perfect way to end a day of fishing.
To book your charter for Winter Chinook onboard the Trish-Anne please contact Jeff Carlson of BC STYLE Fishing Charters www.bcstylefishingcharters.com
Prince Rupert Weather: http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/cabc0236
Prince Rupert Tide Charts:
http://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/cgi-bin/tide-shc.cgi?queryType=showFrameset&zone=18&language=english®ion=1&stnnum=9354
www.bcstylefishingcharters.com
Thanks. Jeff Carlson – owner
Fishing Report from: Fish Tales Tackle Shop, Terrace BC
Hello Noel! Well things are looking up! This week I have acquired a picture of a beautiful Steelhead caught by Willie McCleary on the lower Skeena. It was caught late afternoon on Feb 2nd. I am getting reports from folks that the steelhead fishing is picking up! The weather we are having is just awesome. Sometimes I have to remind myself that it is February and not April. No snow and sunny days. Gotta love it!! The folks in Kincolith are still doing well for winter Chinook off the government docks. Fishtales would like to take the opportunity to send out a special thanks to all its customers for their patronage and support !!
Cheers!
Jason Munday - manager
Everyone is invited to check out our New! instore flyer http://www.noelgyger.ca/ads/fish-tales-instore-flyer.pdf Out of town orders are always welcome. Come in for a coffee anytime.
Fishing Report from: Cory Koenig of Webflyz, Smithers BC
Cory Koenig is taking custom fly orders for any species now at www.webflyz.com
Highest Quality, Durable, and Competitively Priced Flies for any Species!
Hello Noel, Weather is making for sketchy ice fishing in the Bulkley Valley and area. Emphasis is again on the safety of the angler... on the ice, and on the back roads to get to those lakes! There is major melting and this is keeping most people away from ice-fishing... there is some great opportunities to ice-fish for large char in the Smithers/Houston area though, eating most any baitfish imitations you may have!
... Need CHAR catching flies? Then look at webflyz.com or give me a call 1-250-877-2021 or, ...if you are in need of lures or anything else for ice-fishing, contact Steve Hidber at Oscar's Source for Sports.
Anticipation is definitely on spring fishing in the Terrace area for steelhead. Many new anglers/customers are asking about this years steelhead fishing in our beautiful province!
Do you need to top up your fly box?!?! Sick of tying flies yourself? Check out Webflyz B.C.! Any flies can be custom made for your specific fishing situation.
Contact Cory at WEBFLYZ B.C. www.webflyz.com for ice-fishing flies and more.
Check newly added fly photos at www.webflyz.com or... if you are planning a trip to hotter destinations like Belize, Mexico, Bahamas, or even the Cayman Islands check out WEBFLYZ B.C.'s website for select boxed flies that are working for many anglers right now!!! Bonefish and stripers are sought after at the moment! From Steelhead to Stripers, Salmon to Sailfish, this fishing year has already begun in some of the warmer states!
Check your 2009-2011 Freshwater fishing Regulations synopsis for all details concerning B.C. Lakes and upcoming spring/summer steelhead fishing in Region 6.
Good luck everyone. Yours sincerely, Cory Koenig
PRODUCT PROFILE Lyman Lures www.lymanlures.com
Canada’s Finest Line of Handmade Wooden Plugs
Wood is better. Lyman wooden plugs are designed to imitate the erratic action of injured fish. The buoyancy of the wood and the weight distribution of the lure create a darting action that has not been achieved in other lures.
Lyman Lures are productive in both Fresh and Saltwater.
Testimonial: “For years I have been pulling Lyman Plugs behind my boat. Whether it's on my home waters of Kootenay Lake, or on the West Coast of Vancouver Island, they always seem to produce fish for me.
We run the 4' plugs most often, because they can imitate just about any bait fish. I also have a large assortment of 5' and even some 6' models when targeting the big ones.
Our largest fish taken on a Lyman in Kootenay Lake so far is just over 23 Lbs, and the biggest Salmon we've taken off the West Coast on a Lyman is just over 40 Lbs.
So, no matter where you fish or what you're fishing for, I would highly recommend the Lyman plugs. Thanks Lyman for providing such a great product. Look forward to many years of great fishing.' Kerry Reed - Reel Adventures Fishing Charters
Contact info for Lyman Lures in Kelowna BC www.lymanlures.com Phone 250-861-3677 Fax 250-861-3672
AREA RIVER RECORDS: Chinook Salmon: Skeena River, 92.5-pounds; Kalum River, 85-pounds; Kitimat River, 74-pounds; Steelhead: Skeena River, 45-pounds; Coho Salmon: Skeena River, 27-pounds.
WIN a FREE one day DRIFT BOAT FISHING TRIP down the Kitimat River for three people by signing-up your friends, family and fishing partners for my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT. This trip is supplied by Reliable Guide and Charters and is for the 2010 season. The LUCKY WINNER will be drawn on April 30, 2010. Cast to this link to open a form showing how to enter names. Send the completed form via e-mail or postal mail. When I receive it I will reply confirming your name is entered into the draw - GOOD LUCK
To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report
4012 Best Street, Terrace BC V8G 5R8, Canada
Tel/Fax: (250) 635-2568
Cell: (250) 631-2678
E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
Home Page: www.noelgyger.ca
Fishing Reports: www.noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htm
RECORD SALMON & STEELHEAD Spin or fly-fishing
RIVER, LAKE, STREAM or OCEAN!!!
Follow Noel Gyger updates on Twitter: http://twitter.com/guided_fishing |
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Jan 18, 2010; 10:56AM - Ocean Winter Chinook and Crab
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
The photo of the week shows me with a beautiful, bright Douglas Channel Winter Chinook landed on Saturday, January 16, 2010. The fish weighed 20-pounds. I was fishing with Ron Wakita and Wes Owens. We also caught a few Dungeness Crab. Click here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zr0yHthttQ to watch the 6 minute video clip. More information about this trip below:
Noel Gyger - WEEKLY FISHING REPORT dated January 10 – January 17, 2010
Dear Fishing Friends:
SUMMARY: Temperatures have been above average all week, plenty warm enough to get out fishing both river and ocean. The upper end of the Zymoetz (Copper) River is closed to angling (as of December 31, 2009) to protect the “wintering over” wild Steelhead. To be clear just the upper reaches of the river are closed but one still may angle on the very low end, just make sure you fish below the boundary at the first canyon. The Kalum River is open to angling all winter although access to some pools is difficult because of the very low water and snow. The Kitimat River is open all winter and if we get some warmer weather fishing for Trout should be OK. Winter Chinook fishing in the Kitimat Harbour and Douglas Channel is good right now but is weather dependent. Winter Chinook fishing in Prince Rupert is very good. Lake ice fishing is also good. Please be very careful on the ice, with the warmer weather there may be some weak spots.
Check out the video clip from Saturday, Jan. 16th below:
I fished with Ron Wakita and Wes Owens for Winter Chinook and Dungeness Crab in the Douglas Channel on Saturday, January 16, 2010. The weather was perfect and seas were almost flat calm. We had a great day landing five Chinook and a few Crab. The biggest Chinook weighed 20-pounds. Rods and reels were Shimano. Electric downrigger and rod holders were made by Scotty www.scotty.com Crab Traps distributed by Redl Sports www.redlsports.com Ace Line Hauler www.acelinehauler.com to effortlessly pull the traps, Danielson Bait cage (basket) and a Gibbs-Delta Tool Gauge www.gibbsfishing.com to measure the Crabs. The lead core rope used to pull the traps is made by Danielson. We placed five traps and caught a few Crabs in only one set. For a direct link to the video click here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7zr0yHthttQ
Let's have some fun with the 2009 Photos of the Week! Send me an e-mail to vote for your favorite one. I will let you know by the end of January 2010 which photo receives the most votes. Looking forward to hearing from you. Thank you to the folks who have sent their votes already. KEEP THOSE VOTES COMING.
Have “YOU” entered the following draw yet?
Cast on link to view full size http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/win-a-FREE-driftboat-fishing-trip.doc?
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace. Please visit these shops to watch the shows.
LIST OF “New” ITEMS POSTED ON THE WEBSITE THIS WEEK:
- One New item posted on 'Conservation' Jan 15/10
NOW BOOKING for 2010: Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions and concerns. Cast here http://noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm to read more of what I have to offer.
Don’t miss the opportunity to be guided for Steelhead on the Kalum River the last two weeks in March 2010. Season opener begins March 15th. Please contact me for details. Limited spots available!
Many people book three trips per year to our area; one trip in the spring (March-April-May), one trip in the summer (June-July-August) and one trip in the fall (September-October-November). They love having the same guide but fishing for different fish in different areas.
Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, podcasts, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. I am at your service.
CURRENT REPORT and summary for Skeena and Tributaries:
TYPE OF FISH CAUGHT: Steelhead, Trout and Dolly Varden Char for river. Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness Crab for ocean.
LARGEST FISH OF THE WEEK: River: none reported this week. Ocean: 20-pounder by Noel Gyger. Lake: lots of Trout being caught in lakes while ice fishing.
WEATHER: Flurries changing to rain showers this afternoon. Snowfall amount 2 to 4 cm. Becoming windy this afternoon. High plus 2. Sunrise 8:46 AM Sunset 4:44 PM. Today’s yearly average temperatures: Maximum -1 degrees. Minimum - 6 degrees.
WEATHER REPORTS VIA TELEPHONE: Terrace 250-635-4192 Kitimat 250-632-7864 Prince Rupert 250-627-1155 Smithers 250-847-1958.
SKEENA RIVER: The Skeena River is frozen over in places. The places that are not frozen are filled with flowing ice. The graph below demonstrates these ice flows have jammed and caused the river to rise. Fishing is nearly impossible under these conditions. Please be careful walking on the ice.
Skeena River height: http://scitech.pyr.ec.gc.ca/waterweb/fullgraph.asp
KALUM RIVER: Since the weather has warmed up more anglers are heading out to try their luck fishing for Steelhead. Anglers are reminded of a bait ban January 1 to March 15.
ZYMOETZ (COPPER) RIVER: Sorry, I haven’t checked the water conditions today but I think they would be OK now with the warmer weather. The upper section is closed as of December 31 but the lower section below the first canyon will stay open for the winter Steelheaders to enjoy.
Fishing Report from: Ron Wakita of Reliable Guide and Charters, Kitimat BC
Cast on link below to view New! flyer: http://www.noelgyger.ca/images/Instore_Flyer_Oct_2009.pdf
KITIMAT RIVER: We received milder temperatures and some heavy rain during the early part of this week. The rain caused the Kitimat River levels to rise and by mid week the river was dirty and unfishable. The higher river levels and milder temperatures also melted and /or flushed a lot of the snow and ice on the Kitimat River and opened up the most main channels of the Kitimat River. By Thursday and Friday the rain stopped and river levels dropped. The water cleaned and is now fishable. A few Trout fishermen were able to get out and catch some Trout.
Jan 15 Mike Campbell was out fishing the upper Kitimat River and landed 2 Cutthroat Trout and lost something big that he thought might have been a Steelhead. As Mike experienced there is a small winter population of Steelhead in the Kitimat River albeit very small. It is always a welcome surprise for any Trout angler to hook a Steelhead on Trout gear.
Summary: The Kitimat River will be productive for Trout but as always, depending on the weather.
DOUGLAS CHANNEL: The weather this weekend was perfect to do some Winter Chinook fishing in the harbour, crabbing or just boating on the Douglas Channel. Many boaters who keep their boats in the water over the winter like to enjoy time on the Douglas Channel. It is also a good idea to run the boats to charge up the batteries and circulate the fluids to ensure everything is in Tip Top shape.
Jan 14 Wes Owens was out doing some Crabbing and dropped a line for a couple of hours and lost a feeder Chinook. He did manage to get 6 Crab for his friend John.
Jan 16 I had the pleasure of fishing with my good friends, Noel Gyger and Wes Owens. We had an awesome day fishing for 'Winter Chinook' in the Kitimat Harbour. Wes and I started off our fishing trip by being pleasantly surprised to receive a wonderful assortment of baking from Noel's wife, Gail. Thank you Gail, they were delicious and they may have provided the inspiration for some good fishing. We landed five Winter Chinook in total but we released one.
The first two Chinook were landed using Gibbs UV Green Strip Highliner Flasher and a purple True Roll. This has been the bright star of our Winter Chinook fishing so far.
The next 3 Chinook were landed on Wes' favorite rig. It includes a Luhr Jensen Abe and Al #1 Flasher with an Anchovy in a Rhys Davis metallic blue/green Anchovy Teaser head. Noel landed a beautiful 20lb Winter Chinook on one of these rigs. Congratulations Noel. The Crabbing was slow although we did catch a few for Noel to take home to Gail who enjoys Dungeness Crab.
It was a great day fishing with Wes and Noel, we caught a few Winter Chinook, told a few fishing stories, ate some of Gail’s delicious baked goods and caught some Dungeness Crab. Thanks for the wonderful memories Noel and Wes.
Jan 12 Ariel Kuppers went fishing up to Ross Lake with his girlfriend Nicolette, his sister Emma and his buddy Travis. They hooked a few Brook Trout but only managed to land two. 'One was 3lbs' said Ariel. 'The other was smaller but we had quite the adventure to get two Trout'.
Thanks to everyone for providing pictures and info for this report.
Good Health and Good Fishing!
Sincerely
Ron
PS: Reliable Guide and Charters is also booking for the 2010 season. Any interested Anglers please contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
Fishing Report from: Chad Black of Nicholas Dean Lodge, Terrace BC
Starting in January and building through March, fresh Steelhead like this mint bright hen enter the Skeena River and its tributaries. These fish are amongst the largest of the year and with warming water temperatures can be incredible fighters...
Hello Anglers, First off, I'd like to wish you all a Happy New Year and hope that you had an enjoyable holiday season this year with your family and friends!
You know, I've been told by a few people that I might have chosen the worst couple of years to pick up and move to northwest BC, at least by Winter Steelhead fishing standards. Both this Winter 2010 and the Winter of 2009 have certainly been challenging in the sense that fishing conditions have been less than ideal. Starting in mid-November this past year, the weather was, for lack of a better phrase, just plain bad. Very cold (down to -20C was common) temperatures, and winds consistently in the gale force range are two very tough opponents when trying to spend quality time on the river, and a few fishing buddies have said that this lasted all through the holidays.
So, upon my arrival back in Skeena Steelhead country late last week, instead of finding the Kalum, Copper and Skeena Rivers in fishable shape, I unfortunately found the opposite: rivers mostly frozen over and little in the way of fishing opportunity. Or, so I thought. I'd based my observations on driving over the local bridges, and hadn't gone that extra step at checking in at my favourite pools. Jeff Langley and Sky Richard had, and said that the rivers were very much fishable if you did some hiking, though there were still sections frozen over. Apparently Sky has done quite well trout fishing on a few rivers in the area and had managed to land a few Steelhead as well. I suppose the moral of the story is always do your 'due diligence...'
For the past few days, I'm happy to report that temperatures have risen and steady rains have helped to melt shelf ice and open up our best Winter Steelhead fisheries. With rivers on the rise and the fact that there is generally a strong push of Winter Steelhead into the Lower Skeena and its tributaries at this time of year, I'm optimistic for my chances on the weekend...
With the start of the new year underway, and to help give our readers information and direction on the best techniques, tackle and presentations when targeting Salmon and Steelhead on the Skeena and its tributaries, I've also decided to add a new section to our fishing reports, titled: 'Skeena River Fishing Tips.' Whether you're a spey caster who loves swinging large Intruder flies for Steelhead or a trophy Chinook angler after the leviathans of the deep, there will be something for you to enjoy which just might help you land that next big fish you've been dreaming about. This week's tip is on the Hawaiian Punch fly, a popular and venerable pattern that has helped our guides and guests get into many, many Steelhead and Salmon here on the Skeena.
All the best for a successful and enjoyable year ahead and, as always,
Tight lines and screaming reels. Chad Black, Operations Manager
Fishing Report from: J & E Tackle Shop, Prince Rupert BC
Ray Hascarl and his son Dylan holding a 74lb. Chinook Salmon caught 30th of June out off the north end of Dundas Island.
The high winds and pounding rain continuing to be a problem for the majority of the winter anglers. For the few hard core fishermen that do take to the water, they are on the most part still being rewarded for their efforts. There has been a number of Winter Chinook reported being caught off the waters of Port Simpson ranging in size from 5 to 25lbs.
Ray and his son Dylan are long time friends of mine which have been coming to Prince Rupert from their hometown of Nakusp BC. for the past 6 to 7 years. They always stop in to J & E’s Tackle to gear up and get the latest up to date fishing report before heading out on the water. Here is their story of the BIG ONE that didn’t get away.
We caught it around 7:15pm and were one of the last boats on the water that evening so we had lots of room to fight it. We fought it for about 40 minutes with me on the rod, my son Dylan running the boat and brother Dean doing the netting. Once it was in the net I reached down and grabbed the gill plates and steered the head of the fish into the side of the boat as it was trying to swim through the net. It thrashed around for about a minute straight before I could pull it over the side. One note is we fished from 4:30 that morning all day while only catching one other fish around 5 lbs. It would have been my worst days ever fishing the ocean and then I caught the big one and made it one of the best days ever. We were supposed to be in at Dundas 101 at 6pm to eat dinner but my watch quit working that day so I was using my cell phone and the time on it was 1 hour behind because of Alaska time. Had my watch not quit, we would have been at supper and not even fishing when I caught it. Funny how things work out.
Just a reminder to all those Halibut sport fishermen that the month of January is closed to Halibut fishing.
J & E’s Tackle January 1st – 31st 2010 Sale
MUCK BOOTS
http://www.muckbootcompany.com
RIVERS WEST CLOTHING
http://www.riverswest.com
PENN FISHING TACKLE
http://www.pennfishingstore.com/penn-gt-ugly-stik-combos.html
To book your charter for Winter Chinook please contact Jeff Carlson of BC STYLE Fishing Charters www.bcstylefishingcharters.com
Prince Rupert Weather: http://www.theweathernetwork.com/weather/cabc0236
Prince Rupert Tide Charts:
http://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/cgi-bin/tide-shc.cgi?queryType=showFrameset&zone=18&language=english®ion=1&stnnum=9354
Thanks. Jeff Carlson – owner
Fishing Report from: Fish Tales Tackle Shop, Terrace BC
Good Day Noel! Well, Jack Frost has loosened his grip on us. The warmer weather has put the anglers in the mood. There are a few Steelhead being caught but as reported to me “You have to put the work in”. There also has been some reports of good trout fishing on the Kitimat. Sorry Noel, no monsters to report this week! Been pretty quiet. Have a super day!
Cheers, Jason Munday
Everyone is invited to check out our New! instore flyer http://www.noelgyger.ca/ads/fish-tales-instore-flyer.pdf Out of town orders are always welcome. Come in for a coffee
Fishing Report from: Cory Koenig of Webflyz, Smithers BC
Cory is taking custom fly orders now www.webflyz.com
Highest Quality, Durable, and Competitively Priced Flies for any Species!
Hi Noel, here is what you asked for, not much fishing 'round here, but there is still die-hards!
This warm weather reminds a person in the Bulkley Valley of SPRING in January! All roads leading to any lake are very icy, and caution is to be taken for all your fishing trips in January.
Ice fishing is still your best bet, emphasis is on the lakes close to Smithers and Houston. Chapman, Babine, Fulton Lakes are great for Char up to 12 lbs. Ross, Call, Barrett, Klinger Lakes all support Rainbows, Brookies, or both up to 8lbs, with an average of 1-2lbs. The staff at Oscars Source for Sports reported that this week many anglers had really good success at Klinger Lake for brook trout. Irrigation, Johnson, Helen and Lake Kathlyn support CUTTHROAT TROUT and some CUTTBOWS up to 3 lbs.
There are some larger, older Char in the lakes in the rear of Houston B.C. at the top of the Fraser River watershed, close to Francios Lake, but a full day is needed. Gummy Minnows are a hit, used for any species, any time of year. Use sizes #6 to #1 for trout, and #4/0 for large lakers.
Meat and tater flies are still the conehead black and olive leeches, pheasant tail nymphs, and flash helps for these flies, as the lakes are most often dark!
Lyman lures www.lymanlures.com are a hit for any fishing, and Pink Deadly Dicks have brought many large trout to the ice over the years.
The use of the moon phases may help you, fish the 26th to the 29th of January for some of the better times to catch fish this month.
Any of these flies can be custom made for your specific fishing situation. Contact Cory at WEBFLYZ B.C. www.webflyz.com for more ice-fishing flies that work.
Check newly added fly photos weekly…or if you are planning a trip to hotter destinations this winter, check out WEBFLYZ B.C. website for flies that catch any species in the saltwater, even Marlin!
Check your 2009-2011 Freshwater fishing Regulations synopsis for all details concerning Lakes in Region 6.
Good luck everyone. Yours sincerely, Cory Koenig
PRODUCT PROFILE Normark – Rapala www.rapala.ca
Go to Rapala for ALL your ice fishing needs
http://www.rapala.ca/products/icefishing
Swede-Bore Brace Rapala IRC35 Cortland Specialty
& Bit Ice Drill Series Ice Lines
Rapala is distributed by Redl Sports Distributors www.redlsports.com and these fine products are available at these Best Dealers in the North West, City Centre Hardware and Sporting Goods in Kitimat, J and E's Tackle in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales in Terrace.
For ALL your ice fishing needs please click on the Rapala link www.rapala.ca for more selection and information.
AREA RIVER RECORDS: Chinook Salmon: Skeena River, 92.5-pounds; Kalum River, 85-pounds; Kitimat River, 74-pounds; Steelhead: Skeena River, 45-pounds; Coho Salmon: Skeena River, 27-pounds.
GUEST FISHING PHOTOS:
*** If any of you have special fishing photos, testimonials, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them.
Catch & Release formula:
- Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches)
- Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches
Fiberglass fish reproductions:
This 42 x 23.5 inch Steelhead was estimated to weigh 30-pounds. There are many sizes and positions available, and pretty much any species. Call Carey Braun anytime at 250-639-3769 and he will be happy to build one for you. Yes, that’s Carey in the photo. Place your order NOW
WIN a FREE one day DRIFT BOAT FISHING TRIP down the Kitimat River for three people by signing-up your friends, family and fishing partners for my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT. This trip is supplied by Reliable Guide and Charters and is for the 2010 season. The LUCKY WINNER will be drawn on April 30, 2010. Cast to this link to open a form showing how to enter names. Send the completed form via e-mail or postal mail. When I receive it I will reply confirming your name is entered into the draw - GOOD LUCK
To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
Home page: www.noelgyger.ca |
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Dec 28, 2009; 10:45AM - Winter Steelheading
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
The photo of the week shows how to rack your fly rods while traveling from pool to pool in your vehicle. Photo is courtesy of Karl Rasmussen. Check below for more photos from Karl when he was fishing for Steelhead on the Thompson River in November 2009. Fly rod rack made by Fly Angler.
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Noel Gyger – Guided Fishing Adventures and Weekly Fishing Report
4012 Best Street, Terrace BC V8G 5R8, Canada
Tel/Fax: (250) 635-2568
Cell: (250) 631-2678
E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
Home Page: www.noelgyger.ca
Fishing Reports: www.noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htm
RECORD SALMON & STEELHEAD Spin or fly-fishing
RIVER, LAKE, STREAM or OCEAN!!!
Follow Noel Gyger updates on Twitter: http://twitter.com/guided_fishing
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Noel Gyger - WEEKLY FISHING REPORT dated December 20 – December 27, 2009
Dear Fishing Friends:
Happy New Year everyone!
SUMMARY: Sunny and windy with high of minus 2. Winter Steelheading is in full swing although the cold weather has slowed it down a bit. Sometimes it only means shorter fishing days but the “determined” fishermen are still getting out there. Some would say they’re “crazy”! The Zymoetz (Copper) River closes to angling above the sign at the transmission line crossing (below Zymoetz Canyon) at the end of the month (January 1 to June 15). So get out and enjoy before the closure. To be clear just the upper reaches of the river are closed one still may angle on the very low end, just make sure you fish below the boundary at the first canyon. The Kalum River is open to angling all winter although access to some pools is difficult as to the extreme low water and snow. The Kitimat River is open all winter also, and if we get some warmer weather fishing for Trout should be OK. The Blue Knuckle Derby is taking place in Prince Rupert today. I understand all tickets for this exciting event have been sold out since December 26th. Winter Chinook ocean fishing in Prince Rupert is very good. Check out the Jeff Carlson of J&E Tackle below for more detail.
Cast on link to view full size http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/win-a-FREE-driftboat-fishing-trip.doc Thank you to those who have sent new e-mails to me. Have “you” entered the draw yet?
With the participation of some of the Best Dealers (Tackle Shops) in the Northwest I have distributed DVD players and Video clips featuring the Best Fishing in the Northwest highlighting several of the Best Guides and Charters in the Northwest using a variety of the Best Fishing Products on the Market today. The dealers that have the DVD players are: Home Hardware in Kitimat, J&E Tackle and Hunting Shop in Prince Rupert, Oscars Source for Sports in Smithers and Fish Tales Tackle Shop in Terrace. Please visit these shops to watch the shows.
NOW BOOKING for 2010: Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions and concerns. Cast here http://noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm to read more of what I have to offer.
*** Don’t miss the opportunity to be guided for Steelhead on the Kalum River the last two weeks in March 2010. Season opener begins March 15th. Please contact me for details. Limited spots available!
Many people book three trips per year to our area; one trip in the spring (March-April-May), one trip in the summer (June-July-August) and one trip in the fall (September-October-November). They love having the same guide but fishing for different fish in different areas.
Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, podcasts, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. I am at your service.
CURRENT REPORT and summary for Skeena and Tributaries:
TYPE OF FISH CAUGHT: Steelhead, Trout and Dolly Varden Char for river. Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness Crab for ocean.
FISHING THIS WEEK: FAIR
WEATHER: Sunny. Windy. High minus 2. Wind chill minus 15 this morning. Sunrise 8:57 AM Sunset 4:15 PM. Today’s yearly average temperatures: Maximum -1 degrees. Minimum - 6 degrees.
WEATHER REPORTS VIA TELEPHONE: Terrace 250-635-4192 Kitimat 250-632-7864 Prince Rupert 250-627-1155 Smithers 250-847-1958.
SKEENA RIVER: The Skeena River is frozen over in places. The places that are not frozen are filled with flowing ice. The graph below demonstrates these ice flows have jammed and caused the river to rise. Fishing is nearly impossible under these conditions.
Skeena River height: http://scitech.pyr.ec.gc.ca/waterweb/fullgraph.asp
KALUM RIVER: Since the weather has warmed up a few “hearty” anglers are Steelhead fishing again. Last week I reported a good run of Steelhead but I have been in contact with some experienced local anglers and they tell me it has been slow.
Even though the weather has been cold this river usually does not freeze over. It has something to do with the warming of the water flowing out of Kalum Lake. It will freeze if the water level drops very low and if it stays cold and starts snowing heavily. If it is cold enough the snow will not melt when it hits the water. The flowing snow clumps together and jams when it hits the rocks and boulders. The river current in some places nearly stops flowing and if it remains cold it will freeze over in these areas that are like lakes. This seems to happen every few years or so.
ZYMOETZ (COPPER) RIVER: The water is in poor shape with moderate to heavy ice flows and fishing for Steelhead is slow. The upper section closes at the end of the month (December 31) but the lower section below the first canyon will stay open for the winter Steelheaders to enjoy.
KITIMAT RIVER: The Kitimat River is low and clear and certain areas still remain frozen. Even with all activities of Christmas some anglers are still venturing out to do some fishing on the Kitimat River.
Dec 24 Even with the Christmas Festivities, Ariel Kuppers, Mitch Lupick and Travis James managed to sneak out and do a little Trout fishing on the Kitimat River. They managed to land 15 to 20 Trout ice fishing in Goose Creek. Ariel also said that a family showed up to fish but they did not have an ice auger so Ariel and his group kindly gave up the holes they had drilled. Well done Ariel, Mitch and Travis. Not only did you guys display some awesome angler etiquette but you also demonstrated the Christmas spirit of sharing.
DOUGLAS CHANNEL: Although there was some activity on the Kitimat River prior to Christmas there was very little activity on the Douglas Channel. There are a few boats planning some Winter Chinook fishing during the holidays. Stay Tuned!
Fishing Report from: J & E Tackle Shop, Prince Rupert
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
I have had great reviews from the local sport fishermen this past week with numerous Winter Springs being caught.
Blue Knuckle Derby tickets have been completely sold out as of 2:00 PM Dec. 26th. Thanks to all our sponsors for their generous donations for the door prizes and prize money. All proceeds will support the Salvation Army and the Loyal Order of the Moose. The Prince Rupert Lions Club would like to thank the community for its support. Also, we would like to give a special thank you to Hawk Air (return trip for 2 to Van.) and Astra Media for radio coverage. Tight Lines and Good Luck to all those who participated in the Derby. I will have a full report next week of the Blue Knuckle Derby results.
To book your charter for Winter Chinook please contact Jeff Carlson of BC STYLE Fishing Charters www.bcstylefishingcharters.com
Fishing Report from: Nautical West Adventures
As you know Noel, in this business of saltwater fishing charters and freshwater guiding our work is never finished. We have been very busy over the last couple of month's preparing for next season business. We are putting together more great packages for our guests this coming season and very excited about our 'All Inclusive Fishing Packages'. Our goal is to always provide our guests with nothing but high quality / affordable fishing expeditions in northern BC's best Steelhead, Salmon, Trout and Halibut waters. Our packages involve both freshwater and saltwater adventures for those who want to experience it all in Northern BC.
Fishing Packages we offer start with a 2 day fishing / 3 night stay and play.
Available for 1 day ocean and 1 day river fishing with all meals, equipment, transportation and packaging included.
Join us for your 2010 Sport Fishing Holiday! Contact Noel to book your trip.
Happy New Year to everyone!
Best regards, Todd Haynes - owner
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PRODUCT PROFILE Lyman Lures www.lymanlures.com
Canada’s Finest Line of Handmade Wooden Plugs
Wood is better. Lyman wooden plugs are designed to imitate the erratic action of injured fish. The buoyancy of the wood and the weight distribution of the lure create a darting action that has not been achieved in other lures.
Lyman Lures are productive in both Fresh and Saltwater.
Testimonial: “Lyman plugs are always at the front of my tackle box, because they consistently put fish in my boat for my clients.” Brad Stubbs – Kootenay KingFisher Guiding Services
Contact info for Lyman Lures in Kelowna BC Phone 250-861-3677 Fax 250-861-3672 www.lymanlures.com
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GUEST FISHING PHOTOS:
*** If any of you have special fishing photos, testimonials, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them.
Karl Rasmussen with a gorgeous 38.5 Thompson River Steelhead landed in November 2009.
Equipment: Rod: Sage 8136-4 13'6' 8 weight. Reel: Danielsson LW 8 twelve. Line: Airflow compact 25' 540 grain shooting head 15' type 3 sink tip. Leader: Maxima. Fly: Karl special. Redl Sports www.redlsports.com distributes Danielson and Maxima
This is me Jerry. My son and I went fishing on the Skeena River in a July for one day. The fish on the left is Rob’s fish which weighed 59-pounds and mine is on the right and weighed 46.8- pounds. Hope you like it and you are free to post it on your website or fish report. Have a merry Christmas. From: Jerry
Catch & Release formula:
- Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches)
- Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches)
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Fiberglass fish reproductions
This 42 x 23.5 inch Steelhead was estimated to weigh 30-pounds. There are many sizes and positions available, and pretty much any species. Call Carey Braun anytime at 250-639-3769 and he will be happy to build one for you. Yes, that’s Carey in the photo. Place your order NOW
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WIN a FREE one day DRIFT BOAT FISHING TRIP down the Kitimat River for three people by signing-up your friends, family and fishing partners for my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT. This trip is supplied by Reliable Guide and Charters and is for the 2010 season. The LUCKY WINNER will be drawn on April 30, 2010. Cast to this link http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/win-a-FREE-driftboat-fishing-trip.doc to open a form showing how to enter names. Send the completed form via e-mail or postal mail. When I receive it I will reply confirming your name is entered into the draw - GOOD LUCK
To receive my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT and PHOTO via e-mail please send your name and e-mail address to: Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca
GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
Back to: http://noelgyger.ca/past-fishing-reports.htm
Home page: www.noelgyger.ca |
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Dec 7, 2009; 12:52PM - RIVER Steelhead OCEAN Winter Chinook
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Category: Canada
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Author Name: Noel Gyger
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Author E-mail: noel@noelgyger.ca
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Report Description:
The photo of week shows Gill McKean owner of Westcoast Fishing Adventures with a beautiful bright, wild Steelhead landed last fall.
Noel Gyger - WEEKLY FISHING REPORT dated November 29 – December 6, 2009
Dear Fishing Friends:
SUMMARY: As I am writing this summery the air temperature outside is -8 degrees C with high out flow wind (out of the north). We all know what this means…it is way too cold to go fishing. I think the wintering over Steelhead need a break from us anglers once an awhile. The Trout lakes should start freezing over now and the ice fishermen will start dusting off their gear. Weatherman says this cold snap may be with us for awhile.
'WIN' a FREE one day DRIFT FISHING TRIP for three persons down the Kitimat River by signing up your friends, family and fishing partners for my WEEKLY FISHING REPORT
This trip is supplied by Reliable Guide and Charters and is for the 2010 season. The LUCKY WINNER will be drawn on April 30, 2010. Cast to this link http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/win-a-FREE-driftboat-fishing-trip.doc to open a form showing how to enter names. Send the completed form via e-mail or postal mail. When I receive it I will reply confirming your name is entered into the draw – GOOD LUCK
December 2, 2009 One 'New' clip posted on Video Clips:
I was invited to go fishing with Ron Wakita and Wes Owens for Dungeness Crab in the Kitimat ocean Douglas Channel November 27, 2009. This video shows 'how-to' catch Crab using the 'right tools for the job' such as Crab Traps distributed by Redl Sports www.redlsports.ca , Ace Line Hauler Crab and Prawn puller www.acelinehauler.com to effortlessly pull the traps, Danielson Bait Cage (basket) and a Gibbs-Delta Crab Gauge www.gibbsfishing.com to measure the Crabs. The lead core rope used to pull the traps is made by Danielson. We placed four traps for only one set and were only one Crab short of the daily limit of six each. Cast here http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qq-wU33Ihoo for a direct link to the video. It is also list on the Video webpage: Tips and Techniques: Title: HOW TO catch Dungeness Crab and is video clip #0078. It plays for 6:52 minutes
NOW BOOKING for 2010: Let me know if I can be of service to book you with the 'best' fishing guide and/or fishing lodges for both river and ocean. There are NO extra charges to book through me, just a lot of free information and advice from a person with years and years of fishing and fish guiding experience. It is like hiring two guides for the price of one. I will promptly answer your questions and concerns. Cast here http://noelgyger.ca/special-guided.htm to read more of what I have to offer.
Many people book three trips per year to our area; one trip in the spring (March-April-May), one trip in the summer (June-July-August) and one trip in the fall (September-October-November). They love having the same guide but fishing for different fish in different areas.
Be sure to check out my website at www.noelgyger.ca for news bulletins, mid week fishing updates, conservation, my history, quality waters strategy, special guided fishing trips, video clips, podcasts, scenic river photos, wildlife photos and others, comments from past guests, informational articles, archived fishing reports from 1996 through 2002 and a sportfishing market place. I hope it meets with your entire satisfaction. I am at your service.
CURRENT REPORT and summary for Skeena and Tributaries:
TYPE OF FISH CAUGHT Steelhead, Trout and Dolly Varden Char for river. Salmon, Halibut, Bottom Fish and Dungeness Crab for ocean.
Thank you for using barbless hooks! (This is a BC fishing regulation)
FISHING THIS WEEK: (Too cold!)
SKEENA RIVER: water has been dropping all week and is in good shape. It is too cold to fish right now. Late fall Steelhead should be coming in now plus “excellent” fishing for Trout and Dolly Varden Char.
KALUM RIVER: Late fall and early winter Steelhead fishing will start again when the weather warms up.
ZYMOETZ (COPPER) RIVER: Really too cold to fish right now.
Fishing Report from: Ron Wakita of Reliable Guide and Charters
Cast on link below to view New flyer: http://www.noelgyger.ca/images/Instore_Flyer_Oct_2009.pdf
Cast on link below to view New Christmas Flyer:
http://www.noelgyger.ca/images/2009-Christmas-Flyer.pdf
KITIMAT RIVER: The Kitimat weather was sunny and clear early in the week and some anglers managed to get to do some Trout fishing with good results.
The Lower Dike, Goose Creek and the Big Pool at Cable Car were the Hot Holes this week. Cable Car was reported to have lots of small Trout.
Mid week in Kitimat we received some light snow falls followed by some rain which melted most of the Snow.
During the latter part of this week we received Sunny, Clear and some very Cold weather. It dropped to below zero at times.
Dec 1st Jacques Losier reports 'My son Colby Age 7 caught some incredible cut throats. He caught these 20 inch plus fish with a pink worm and a real worm. He landed at least 15 to 20 fish all in the 11 to 13 inch range. Awesome day of fishing!'
Wow! These are some very nice trout. Well done Colby! And at Age 7! It is so refreshing to report a Father and Son sharing the passion of fishing and it is quality time with Colby will never forget. Well done Dad! Thank You for taking the time out of your busy life to send me the pictures
DOUGLAS CHANNEL: The Winter Chinook fishing in the Kitimat Harbour is difficult to determine as only one boat was reported fishing the Harbour this week.
Nov 1st Wes Owens of Golden Adventures took my brother Brian and my Twin brother Rick Wakita out for Winter Chinook and to do a little crabbing. I asked Wes not too try to hard to catch any fish for my brothers because of our ongoing Sibling rivalry. For readers that have brothers you may be able to relate to the normal competitive nature of brothers. It can be bad in most cases but if you add the issue that we were all born the same year. (Brian was born in January and Rick and I were born in November the same year) it can be a little too competitive but it is all in good fun!
I am happy to report that they didn't catch any Winter Chinook. :-) They did however catch their limit of crab with the help of the Ace Line Hauler www.acelinehauler.com They both loved pulling the traps and they did catch a lot of crab but 'Whats Up' with the FiFI gloves!
I am sure that Wes and my brothers put in honest effort but they did not find the Winter Chinook. Stay tuned.
Thank You to everyone who provided info and photos to this Fishing Report.
Hope you enjoyed the Fishing Report.
We are booking River and Saltwater trips for the 2010 season. Interested anglers, please contact Noel: noel@noelgyger.ca
Good Luck Good Health Good Fishing
Sincerely
Ron Wakita
Fishing Report from: Nicholas Dean Lodge, Terrace
Spring Steelhead fishing near Terrace is probably one of the most overlooked seasons on the Skeena system, despite its reputation for large fish. Taft Ring can attest to this, having landed this 23 lb Steelhead on his second day of fishing!
Hello Anglers, around this time of year, I always find myself reflecting back on the season - of enjoyable dinners and conversations had with clients, tying flies in anticipation of the next trip and yes, the clichéd big fish stories told at the lodge which usually don't involve myself. So, for this week's report, rather than one specific story, I decided to do put some of these memories on paper - let's call them the 2009 season highlights...
Starting our Spring Steelhead season at our rustic and comfortable lodge on Kalum Lake Road, we hosted a number of clients who focused their angling efforts on a few Skeena River tributaries and the big river itself. Like most other years, there seemed to be proportionately more, large Steelhead landed in the Spring than at other times of year, and Taft Ring took top honors, landing a 23 lb Steelhead on the fly (this week's report photo). During that same week, we had the pleasure of hosting legendary Steelhead angler Lani Waller who had recently penned his newest book, 'A Steelheader's Way.' Lani is a charismatic yet genuine, humble man whose passion for Steelhead and Steelhead fly fishing is infectious and derived from many years on the water. Having the chance to meet and share stories with Lani was certainly a highlight of my Steelhead fishing career, and I suspect for those anglers who also joined us that week.
From mid April through mid May, we continued to develop one of our newest fishing programs - Adventure Steelheading - on small, not-to-be named coastal rivers. Why Adventure Steelheading? Well, many of the coastal rivers we fish aren't the easiest to access and demand a fair amount of hiking and wading on the part of the angler. On a few rivers in particular, we'll start the day by driving down a logging road, launching in the Ocean, jet boating to the river's estuary and from there move from pool to pool in search of Steelhead that average 12-15 lbs. This year, Sonja Sorbo took top honors with a 20 lb Steelhead landed in early May - one that I'm sure she won't easily forget!
Perhaps one of our most significant announcements this year was our partnership with five-star Yellow Cedar Lodge. Beginning April 20, we moved operations to this incredible facility, and clients enjoyed some of the best fine dining, hospitality and amenities in Northwest BC. Building upon our successes this season, we look forward to working with Alf and Simone at Yellow Cedar Lodge during the 2010 season as well.
It was another great year for Trophy Chinook Salmon on the Skeena and Kitimat Rivers during the early part of our Summer season, complete with some absolute monster fish. If you saw my Trophy Chinook of 2009 blog post a few months back, you will have probably already seen a few photos of these incredible fish. Congratulations go out to: Andrea Scaramella for a 60 lb fish he landed in late July, Bob Cusick for his 70 lb lifetime fish and Ron Kostich, with an 80 lb buck which is reputed to be the largest Chinook caught by any angler during the 2009 season.
As many devoted Skeena Steelhead anglers are aware, Steelhead numbers on the Skeena during early August at the Tyee test fishery were some of the highest reported in the last 10 years, which is certainly encouraging. Steelhead fishing on the mainstem Skeena near Terrace followed suit, particularly in late August and early September, with many large Steelhead in the 18-23 lb range landed. Dennis Channing landed a chrome bright 23 lb Steelhead on the Skeena in late August with Sky Richard, which was featured in our 488th Fishing Report.
Our Fall Steelhead and Trophy Coho season is always one of our most popular seasons, and 2009 was no different. We hosted several groups through September and October and, fishing overall was quite good. Many anglers had the opportunity to experience the magic of seeing a large Steelhead rise to a waked dry fly - certainly one of those defining experiences in one's angling career. Fabrizio Oliva was one of our more lucky anglers this Fall, as his first Steelhead landed was a 20 lb fish from one of our remote wilderness rivers. If this wasn't enough, he followed up with an even larger Steelhead stretching to 22 lbs a few days later on the same system! Perhaps one of our biggest success stories this year, however, was the marked improvement in Coho Salmon returns for the North Coast - nearly every system we fished this year had an abundance of fish, and the fishing was unparalleled! Top rods went to Gary Bartholomew and Deb Morrow who fished with us in late October, and landed over 60 Coho in one day...
On the whole, the 2009 year was a successful one for us, and we owe much of this to you, our clients. We would like to thank each of you individually for your patronage and company in your quest for exciting fishing experiences, and hope to see you in the 2010 season or in the near future.
Summary of Current Conditions: With air temperatures dropping well below freezing, fishing conditions are somewhat more difficult this late in the season. It's not to say the fish aren't there - they are - but, when your guides freeze every 4 or 5 casts it's slightly more difficult to focus on your presentation. On our warmer days, however, I have heard reports of anglers catching a few Steelhead on the Skeena and its tributary rivers, particularly in slower moving pools. With the last of the Coho Salmon spawning in local rivers, trout fishing has improved markedly, and targeting these fish with small flesh flies and single eggs are likely the most productive methods of fishing.
Please contact Noel Gyger noel@noelgyger.ca to book your next guided fishing trip with us.
From all of us here at Nicholas Dean Lodge, I'd like to wish you a safe and happy holiday season this year...
Chad Black, Operations Manager
Fishing Report from: J & E Tackle Shop, Prince Rupert
Noel the photos are of Miles Fuller and his charter vessel the Alouette Gal. Miles is holding a 14lb. Chinook caught Dec 5/09 in the Prince Rupert Harbour.
The Winter Chinook fishing has been awesome this past week with numerous reports from anglers taking to the inshore waters of Prince Rupert Harbour, Tucks Narrows, Spire Ledge, Venn Pass and Tugwell Island are all producing winter Chinooks. If you do not have a boat to get out and enjoy this winter fishery you can book any one of the local guides with rates reduced by up to 50% from summer months. So take to the water and do some winter angling, crabbing and prawning. You can contact Jeff Carlson of BC STYLE Fishing Charters www.bcstylefishingcharters.com
J & E’s Fishing and Hunting Shop has many gift ideas for your Christmas shopping.
Click on this link http://www.noelgyger.ca/articles/nov-30_2009-je-tackle-shop-christmas-flyer.pdf to view the instore Christmas flyer.
BLUE KNUCKLE DERBY UPDATE
Tickets will be available Monday December 7, 2009 at J & E’s Tackle
“19th Annual Marc (Dezi) Desautels Memorial Blue Knuckle Derby” is held on Dec. 27th
With the involvement of the Prince Rupert Lions Club and other charitable organizations we have to move from the previous “winner-take-all” format to a split of funds generated.
Largest Salmon Caught
1st Prize $1000
2nd Prize $300
3rd Prize $200.
Lots of door prizes to be won
All surplus funds raised from the ticket sales will go to the Salvation Army.
The weigh-in and prize money PRESENTATIONS will be held at the Moose Lodge in Prince Rupert.
More details of this event will be available in next week’s report.
e.g.
- Start and finish time of derby
- Where to purchase tickets
- Time and place of Weigh-in
BLUE KNUCKLE DERBY SPONSERS
PRINCE RUPERT LIONS Organizer
ASTRAL MEDIA Radio Coverage
HAWK AIR 2 Tickets -Prince Rupert/Vancouver Return
LOYAL ORDER OF THE MOOSE weigh-in and prize money PRESENTATIONS
Prince Rupert Tide Charts:
http://www.waterlevels.gc.ca/cgi-bin/tide-shc.cgi?queryType=showFrameset&zone=18&language=english®ion=1&stnnum=9354
Thanks. Jeff Carlson – owner
PRODUCT PROFILE: Redl Sports www.redlsports.com CENTER PIN fishing reels
Trophy XL offers two styles of fishing reels. The Winter Run series is a line of center pin reels that cater river anglers under all conditions. The Tyee series is a popular mooching reel that every saltwater angler needs to have.
Top left: Trophy XL Tyee QR is machined from solid aluminum bar stock, duel balanced handles and anodized dark pewter. Spool capacity for 500 yards of 20lb monofilament.
Top middle: Trophy XL Winter run is machined from solid bar stock, click drag system, brass bushing system for silky smooth casts, polished silver finish. Spool capacity for 200 yards of 15lb monofilament. Available for right or left handed anglers. Nickel finish is also available.
Top right: Trophy XL Tyee is made from machined solid bar stock, disc drag system, 3 bearings for silky smooth casting and polished silver finish. Spool capacity of 500 yards of 20lb monofilament.
AREA RIVER RECORDS: Chinook Salmon: Skeena River, 92.5-pounds; Kalum River, 85-pounds; Kitimat River, 74-pounds; Steelhead: Skeena River, 45-pounds; Coho Salmon: Skeena River, 27-pounds.
FISHING REGULATIONS WEBSITES:
2009-2011 BC tidal waters and non-tidal (Federal) Salmon fishing information:
www.pac.dfo-mpo.gc.ca/recfish
Effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011
2009-2011 Freshwater (Provincial) Fishing Regulations Synopsis:
www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish
Effective April 1, 2009 to March 31, 2011 (Note regs good for two years)
GUEST FISHING PHOTOS:
*** If any of you have special fishing photos, testimonials, scenic river photos, wildlife photos or articles I would love to see them.
The photo shows James Clark of Alberta with a bright wild Steelhead landed on a Skeena Tributary this past October. He and his friends had a great trip landing many Steelhead and Coho Salmon. Photo courtesy of James Clark.
The photo shows Genady Davidov with a Skeena tributary a wild Steelhead. He and his friends had another great guided fishing trip this fall. Second year in a row pro fishing guide Dustin Kovacvich guided them to many different rivers for both Steelhead and Coho (Silver) Salmon. Photo courtesy of Genady Davidov
Catch & Release formula:
- Chinook: girth squared x length x 1.54 divided by 1000 (inches)
- Steelhead: girth squared x length x 1.33 divided by 1000 (inches)
Place your order NOW for Fiberglass Fish Reproduction
This 42 x 23.5 inch Steelhead was estimated to weigh 30-pounds. There are many sizes and positions available, and pretty much any species. Call Carey Braun anytime at 250-639-3769 and he will be happy to build one for you. Yes, that’s Carey in the photo.
MARKETPLACE Sportfishing related items only please. Contact me anytime to list your items. There is no charge for this service.
Buy, sell, trade or swap your item or items by listing them here today
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Examples of what to list: Boats and accessories, Motors, Vehicles, Air Craft, Rods, Reels, Tackle, Real Estate (i.e. fishing lodge), Rentals (Cabins Cottages), Lakeshore, Tourist accommodation, ATV, RV's, RV sites, Taxidermy, Books, Magazines, Videos, Photographs, Antiques, Artwork, Clothing, Employment, Trade/Swap and Wanted, Help Wanted, etc.
To view the items currently listed please cast to: http://www.noelgyger.ca/market-place.htm
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GOOD LUCK and GOOD FISHING!
Yours sincerely,
Noel F. Gyger
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