The crisp autumn air was filled with anticipation as I launched my small aluminum boat into the icy gray waters of Lake Chelan in Northern Washington State. I had heard rumors of massive schools of kokanee salmon congregating just below the lake’s surface, ready to eat any spinner or lure that crossed their path.
This would be my first time specifically targeting these elusive fish called kokanee, and I was determined to solve the riddle of how to catch them. As I slowly motored across the lake, scanning the water for any signs of their presence, I glanced back at the receding shoreline and knew this was the beginning of an adventure that would either end in success or failure.
It was time to put what I had learned to the test and see if I had finally cracked the code on how to catch kokanee.
What Will You Need?
Before diving into the tactics and techniques of catching kokanee, let’s ensure you have all the necessary gear to get started. For beginners, it’s best to keep things simple and stick with the basics. Here are a few essential items to have on hand:
- A Fishing Rod and Reel: Kokanee can range in size from 8 inches to over 20 inches, so make sure your rod and reel can handle various sizes.
- Lightweight Fishing Line: Kokanee are known for their selective nature, so it’s best to use light tackle, usually between 4-6 pounds of test line.
- Lures and Bait: Kokanee are attracted to bright colors and flashy lures, so stock up on small spinners, spoons, and jigs in shades of pink, orange, and green. Some anglers also have success using scented corn or shrimp as bait.
- A Downrigger: This equipment is essential for trolling at the right depth where kokanees are known to swim.
- A Fish Finder: While not necessary, a fish finder can greatly increase your chances of success by helping you locate the schools of kokanee.
Now that we have all our gear ready let’s dive into some techniques for catching kokanee.
8 Easy Steps on How to Catch Kokanee
Step 1. Find the Fish:
Start off by using your fish finder to locate schools of kokanee. Look for large clusters of marks on the fish finder’s display, as kokanee typically travel in schools. If you don’t have a fish finder, try trolling different depths until you get a bite. Be careful not to go too deep, as kokanee typically swim at 20-50 feet depth.
Step 2. Troll Slowly:
Kokanee are not known for their speed, so it’s essential to match their pace when trolling. Many anglers need to catch up on trolling too fast, which can spook the kokanee and make them less likely to bite. You should be trolling at about 1 to 1.5 miles per hour. Remember to keep a close watch on your fish finder to ensure you’re staying at the right depth and near the schools of fish.
Adjust your speed and direction as necessary based on the movements of the kokanee. Patience is key here – kokanee fishing can take time, but the reward is well worth it.
Step 3. Set the Downrigger:
The downrigger plays a crucial role in positioning your lure at the right depth where kokanee is swimming. First, attach your line to the downrigger and lower it to your desired depth, typically between 20-50 feet. Ensure you’re maintaining the correct depth by continually monitoring your fish finder.
While kokanee are commonly found at these depths, they may move deeper or shallower depending on the time of day and water temperature, so be prepared to adjust the downrigger as necessary. Remember to disengage the line from the downrigger once a fish bites so you can reel in your catch.
Step 4. Choose the Right Lure:
Selecting the right lure can significantly impact your success in catching kokanee. As mentioned earlier, kokanees are attracted to bright colors, so they choose flashy lures such as spinners, spoons, or jigs in shades of pink, orange, and green. Consider adding some scented bait like corn or shrimp to enhance the lure’s appeal.
Attach your lure to your line and ensure it’s securely fastened before lowering it into the water. Remember, kokanee have soft mouths, so avoid using overly large or heavy lures that could cause the hook to tear free when you’re trying to reel in your catch.
Step 5. Adjust Your Technique Based on Conditions:
The behavior of kokanee can change depending on various factors such as water temperature, light levels, and the presence of plankton (their primary food source). During more excellent, overcast days, kokanee may swim closer to the surface, where it’s easier to catch them. On sunny days, they might retreat to deeper waters to stay calm and find food.
Similarly, if the water is rich in plankton, kokanee may congregate in these areas. Use your fish finder to track these changes and adjust your trolling depth and speed accordingly. Also, don’t hesitate to switch out your lures to match the conditions. Understanding and responding to these variables can significantly increase your chances of successfully catching kokanee.
Step 6. Fight the Fish:
Once a kokanee bites, the real challenge begins. Kokanee are known for their spirited fight once hooked. Be gentle when reeling in the fish, as kokanees have delicate mouths, and the hook can easily tear free if too much pressure is applied. Maintain steady pressure on the line and allow the fish to tire itself out by swimming and jumping.
Remember to disengage the line from the downrigger as soon as you feel the bite. The fight with Kokanee is often a slow and steady process, requiring a blend of patience and skill.
Step 7. Land the Fish:
The final part of the battle is landing the fish. Use your fishing net to carefully scoop the kokanee out of the water, careful not to damage its delicate scales. Avoid lifting the fish out of the water alone with the fishing line, as this can cause the hook to tear free. Once you have the fish safely in the net, remove the hook from its mouth gently.
If you plan to release the kokanee, minimize its time out of the water to reduce stress on the fish. If you’re keeping the kokanee, place it in a cooler with ice to maintain its freshness. The thrill of successfully landing a kokanee is a reward in itself. Whether you choose to catch and release or enjoy the fish for dinner, the experience will surely be memorable.
Step 8. Clean and Store Your Catch:
If you’re planning to keep your kokanee, take steps to ensure its freshness. First, bleed the fish shortly after catching it by cutting the gills – this preserves the delicate, sweet flavor of the meat. Next, remove the entrails and gills to slow down any bacterial growth. Rinse the fish thoroughly in cold water and store it in an ice-filled cooler. To maintain the best quality, consume or freeze your catch within 24 hours. This step is essential to enjoying the fruits of your labor at the dinner table.
Following these simple steps, you can quickly learn to catch kokanee and experience the thrill of reeling in this popular fish. Remember to practice proper catch-and-release techniques and dispose of any fishing litter responsibly.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- Master the Depths: Kokanee are temperature-sensitive and like cooler water, usually between 50°F and 60°F. Depending on the time of year and the lake’s temperature, they could be close to the surface or deep down. Get a fish finder to help locate them.
- Use the Right Bait: Corn is a popular bait for kokanee. They are attracted to the scent and the bright color. You can also try scented artificial baits.
- Right Gear is Essential: A light action rod and a reel with a smooth drag system is a great combination for kokanee fishing. Make sure your fishing line is light and invisible as Kokanee have good eyesight.
- Trolling is The Key: Kokanee are schooling fish, so trolling (dragging a fishing line behind a moving boat) is an effective way to catch them. Adjust your trolling speed according to the mood of the fish.
- Take Care of Your Catch: Kokanee are delicate fish. Once you’ve caught a kokanee, handle it with care to maintain the quality of the meat. If you’re practicing catch and release, release the fish back into the water as quickly and gently as possible to ensure their survival.
With these additional tips and tricks, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of catching kokanee.
5 Things You Should Avoid
- Avoid Overfishing: Kokanee populations can be delicate. It’s essential to only take what you need to ensure future generations can enjoy kokanee fishing, too.
- Don’t Ignore Local Regulations: Always follow local fishing regulations and guidelines. These vary by region and body of water, so ensure you know the rules before you start.
- Never Use Heavy Gear: Kokanee is sensitive and can easily be scared off by heavy fishing gear. Keep your equipment light and minimal to avoid spooking the fish.
- Don’t Troll Too Fast: While trolling is an effective strategy for catching kokanee, trolling at high speeds can scare off the school. A slow and steady pace is more likely to yield a catch.
- Avoid Harsh Handling: Kokanee have soft mouths and can easily be injured if handled harshly. Always handle your catch carefully, especially if you plan to release it back into the water.
Avoiding these common mistakes can increase your chances of a successful kokanee fishing trip. Remember always to prioritize the well-being of the fish and their environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, catching kokanee may seem daunting, but anyone can become an expert angler with the proper knowledge and techniques. From understanding their behavior to using the right bait and gear, we have covered all the steps to catch these elusive fish successfully.
So, get out there and put your skills to the test! Don’t be discouraged if you don’t catch one on your first try – fishing is all about patience and perseverance. Remember to respect the environment and follow fishing regulations as responsible anglers. With that being said, we hope this guide on how to catch kokanee has inspired you to head out on your next fishing adventure and reel in some epic kokanee catches.
Share your photos and experiences with us using #KokaneeCatchingChallenge! Now, it’s time to grab your fishing rod and tackle box because those kokanee aren’t going to catch themselves. Happy fishing!