We were trolling Cut Plug Herring close to shore. The kelp has started growing which helps define your fishing line. Hugging the kelp beds is a great way to suck those Chinook out to feed. They follow baitfish into the kelp so a slow presentation just off the beds will usually work.
To make a long story short we had four hits with only one fish netted. The rules of engagement are barbless hooks. It can be quite hair raising for clients who have never hooked one of these large Salmon to try to keep it from spitting the hooks.
My buddies and I have no excuse, after 30 years fishing for Springers even we can loose a fish now and then. It is good to know that the Chinook Salmon are here and headed to the Skeena River to spawn.
My next charter is the 10th of May. Hopefully I can catch a couple of slabs.
