Lower Columbia Salmon Report 8/18/2011

Don't mock my net, I got the 39 incher in there no problem.  Also, it is an upgrade over the net I had for the salmon challenge last fall.



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Great job getting out there and getting your first one!

 Two words BIGGER NET.  If you plan on chasing salmon much, a bigger "full size" salmon net will be priceless when you hook up with a 30 plus pounder.  Another tip is to leave the net in the rod holder behind the seat until the very last  second before you net your fish.  Resist the urge to grab the net. Wear the fish down till its alongside and tired then grab the net. This cuts way down on the fire drill that a net can cause on the small deck of a yak.  I also have a 1ft ish length of large pool noodle that slide freely on my net handle.  It keeps the net afloat in the event I have to drop it and deal with a spunky fish, yet doesn't get in the way like a leash would.

Thanks for the tips PP.  I did buy a full size collapsible salmon net earlier this Spring, I just wasn't smart enough to remember it.  I like the pool noodle idea and I will attach a piece to mine today while it is fresh in my mind. It's funny you mentioned catching a "full-sized" salmon.  I was all excited by catching one for AOTY points and then I looked at the points per inch and realized I seriously need an upgrade.  Also, after seeing Ndogg's, Spot's, and Jammer's Chinook, I realized I got lucky and caught a training fish.

Not dissing the net or the fish   I just know from experience that a bigger basket and a tad longer handle can come in handy..  If what you have works for you then by all means keep rockin what's working. 

I didn't take it as a a dis.  I took it as sagely advice from someone that knows how to catch fish. I am still knew to this Northwest fishing stuff.

I also heard from a mutual acquaintance you make awesome meals for backpacking.   Also, do you think you will be doing guided trips near the end of October?  My father-in-law will be in town and may want to give it a try.

Great story and video.  I've still got another month before I get to "attempt" a Salmon trip on the Yak.

Awesome job guys!  Way to pop your cherry!  Looks like the conditions were near perfect.

Don't feel bad about the comedy of errors.  It happens to all of us.  Trying to extend the handle on my net yesterday I couldn't for the life of me get the lock button in the hole.  The poor coho had to just hang on while I figured it out.  Those moments may only be seconds but they feel like minutes.    

Only word of advice, don't get the line between your and and the rod when going for the highstick.  If that had been a big fish, your line would have sliced a gash in your hand when it took off running.....DAMHIK.....

-Spot-

Great job guys! Good teamwork to get another NWKA their first Salmon!  I SO want to get back out there. Maybe in another couple of weeks.