This is the second of two articles that we are re-publishing from the 2008 Sockeye Season:
CATCHING LAKE WENATCHEE SOCKEYE:
Let me confess to not being an expert on sockeye fishing. Like many of you, I participated in past openings on the lake and Lake Washington and have caught my share. Fishing gear and techniques are continually changing, so stay tuned with what others are saying. A good place to check on what to use to catch sockeye would be Hooked on Toys in Wenatchee or Dave Graybill’s fishing column in the Wenatchee World. .
The Givens:
- You (if over 15) must have a valid fishing license with a salmon recording card. Those under 15 don’t need a license, but must have the recording card. Once you catch a sockeye you must stop and record that fish. The recording area is code 670 for Lake Wenatchee. For sockeye, the minimum size is 12 inches and the bag limit is 2 fish per day per angler. Only one rod per angler is allowed. No more than three barbless hooks may be used. No bait or scent may be attached to the hooks. Bull trout, steelhead, Chinook salmon and tagged sockeye must be released unharmed without removing the fish from the water. A night closure will be in effect. Legal angling hours are one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. Be sure to watch for any changes to the regulations prior to the opening.
- Generally, best fishing is not at dawn, but starts around 7AM and lasts until around 10AM. After that, the sun and all the other gear in the water will likely slow the bite. But sockeye can and occasionally do bite all day, especially when the weather is overcast.
- Don’t pass this on, but the big secret to catching sockeye is to troll at a very slow speed (approximately 1 mph).
- The good anglers suggest starting in the morning at 50-60 feet and then drop 5 ft each half hour.
- You need to use a medium weight salmon or steelhead rod with 15-20 test main line on your reel. Use a dodger (8”) check with Hooked on Toys for types; with a 3/0 bare red hook tied 13-16 inches behind the dodger. It is recommended to use 15-20 lb leader.
- Downriggers are the most effective means of depth control, but an 8-oz weight 3 ft ahead of your dodger will almost do the same.
- The more gear (dodgers) in the water the better. Leave your other gear in the water if you get a hookup. Knotless nets are required.
- It is important to immediately take care of your fish after catching them. Bleed them by cutting a gill raker and put them on ice. Do not pull them along side of the boat on a stringer.
Bottom line: This is not a highly technical fishery and is great for beginners and kids. Be aware that Lake Wenatchee is very difficult to access given the limited public boat launches so plan accordingly. There will be enforcement officers present, so enjoy this great fishery and follow the rules. Good Luck!
Rollie Schmitten, retired
State of Washington Director of Fisheries
US National Director of Fisheries
Originally Published on Aug 5, 2008
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Where can we clean our sockeye?
Preferably on land – many of us drink from the Lake, so treat the water as if you would drink it!
Juris Vagners
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