The Fishing Corner
By Larry Dublanko
To say that this year’s fishing season is unusual is an understatement. We have faced a number of different situations and the season isn’t over yet.
The season started out with several uncertainties. The ocean salmon fishery left some doubts as to what would be in store for anglers when the inland season opened.
When it did open, it did so with several changes. Some of those included a later opening and a sooner closing, making for an abbreviated fishery. The fact that there would be limitations on kings was no surprise. However, the reduction of fishing time on the Chehalis River was a let down to many.
Then came the major rule changes pertaining to the Willapa River System. This fishery is one that many Harborites look forward to with anticipation. So, the king restrictions as well as the reduced opportunities has proven to be a disappointment.
The season is what it is. For the most, it will terminate at the end of this month. The adage is true that one must “make hay while the sun shines.” Well, when it comes to fishing as of late, there has been too much sun and not enough rain. Our weather has been balmy and who would refute it? Yet, it has not been ideal for salmon fishing. With very little time left and restrictive conditions we may be in for a colossal breakdown of a season.
To think that we are on the verge of winter steelhead arriving in local rivers that are running low and clear cause one to wonder as well. Any rain now would certainly be welcomed.
If we are to attain our normal yearly rainfall totals, a lot of water needs to come down in a short amount of time. This is when it gets tricky. We absolutely need rain, but when it comes to fishing we cannot afford river blow outs. The month of November usually gives us an abundance of rain, and the rivers come up and get muddy. They recede and then they usually run high and clear for the winter months.
It is the muddy stage that is adverse to anglers. It is inevitable. Dry dirt, leaves and debris wash into the rivers and these materials need to be cleared out. This natural occurrence can run headlong into the shortened salmon season and prove to be detrimental. As conditions clear up, it becomes a favorable story for steelhead fishing, but one has to wonder about salmon fishing this year.
In the meantime, anglers are going to have to put in many river hours for a decent hook up. Time, hard work and some expense are all a part of salmon fishing at this time.
Anglers who give themselves to these efforts will eventually have fish for the dinner table. This scenario is what is described as “tough fishing conditions.” The good side of this story is that we can fish as Californians, in short-sleeve shirts and not get cold. However, our cold mornings are reminders that we do not live in California.
