Right now, we are in that special time of year where we can see Silver season approaching, yet it is not yet close enough to grasp. Now is a good time to make sure your fly line, leaders and flies are all in good working order for when they return. We still have a couple more weeks to wait, so that gives you all time to be sure you have what you need!
The Chum fishing season is beginning to slow, after a strong show early on. For the most part, they are in full spawn in the freshwater creeks around the Juneau area. As for the Pink salmon, the fishing has continued to be spotty, but a few can be found around the Echo Cove and Cowee Creek area. Low tides at Echo Cove are the easiest times to target these salmon, by walking out to the sand spit, or fishing along the sides of the cove. Try using pink flies such as the Humpy Hooker, Searunner Special, or Karluk Shrimp.
The Dolly Varden fishing has continued to move forward full steam ahead. Now, with a full transition into freshwater, the Dollies can be targeted in Sheep, Salmon, Montana, Peterson and Cowee Creek. Try using flies such as the orange and pink Glo Bugs, Gorman BH Eggs, Billy's Crystal Egg, Fish Emission Egg, and Battle Creek Special. Bead colors such as M. Peach Roe, M. Glo Roe, M. Tangerine, M. Mango, and M. Peachy King in 8mm and 10mm have been working best for the last few weeks. Drift these beads or egg pattern flies in pockets behind spawning Chum salmon to pick up the Dolly Varden. Please remember that if pegging the beads above a hook or fly, the bead must be within two inches of the hook. Otherwise the bead must be able to freely slide the entire length of your leader. Refer to the ADF&G regulations for more information.
As always, Happy Fishing!
-Brad, Mike & Kayla
