Fishing with Rod Discussion Forum

Fishing in British Columbia => General Discussion => Topic started by: Rodney on December 10, 2018, 11:42:02 AM

Title: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on December 10, 2018, 11:42:02 AM
Between early December and late April, Chilliwack River offers a productive winter steelhead fishery for both local and visiting anglers from the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland. While other nearby systems also provide such a fishery, Chilliwack River yields more success due to the amount of fish being produced by the Chilliwack River Hatchery. This thread has several objectives:


Throughout the season, members will post up water condition updates so everyone can be alerted if condition is not ideal. Please feel free to post updates in this thread after your trips. We can all benefit from each other's updates and save gasoline and cost of our season. Please do not request for updates. All posts that request for updates will be removed.


Fishing regulations

Regulations for the steelhead fishery differ slightly to the fall salmon fisheries in BC, so please familiarize by going through the BC Freshwater Fishing Regulation Synopsis (http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/fw/fish/regulations) from time to time if unsure. For the Chilliwack River, anglers should be aware of these regulations. Please report violators by phoning 1-877-952-RAPP (7277).



Fish species and identifications

While the primary target species is steelhead in this fishery, several other species may also be encountered. It is important to know the morphological differences between these species so you do not accidentally retain a fish that is not opened for retention.

(http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/081211-1.jpg)

Steelhead (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/fish_profile/steelhead.html)'s life history is similar to Pacific salmon's. It is a variation of rainbow trout, which has an ocean phase. Unlike Pacific salmon, steelhead may not die after spawning. Size range of steelhead from the Chilliwack River ranges between 6lb and 15lb, while bigger fish have often been recorded every season.

Several identification keys can be used to recognize a steelhead. Its white gum and tongue, lack of teeth behind the tongue. Once arrived from the ocean, its body is silver with heavily spotted back. Its tail is spotted from top to bottom and it is not forked. During spawning phase, pink and red colourations become apparent on the gill plates and across the body. Below are additional photos that may assist you.

Resident rainbow trout (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/fish_profile/rainbow_trout.html) can also be caught while targeting steelhead. Unlike steelhead, they are typically under 18 inches in length or 2lb in weight. All wild rainbow trout must be released.

(http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/081211-4.jpg)

Bull trout (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/fish_profile/bull_trout.html) are often encountered while targeting steelhead and they are required to be released. Their size ranges between 1lb and 10lb. Bull trout can easily be identified by its white and pink spots across the body. Their mouth is large and extends way behind the eyes. The end of their pelvic fins is often white. All bull trout must be released.

(http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/081211-5.jpg)

Coastal cutthroat trout (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/fish_profile/coastal_cutthroat_trout.html) travel in schools. Several identification keys can be used to differentiate them from rainbow trout. Their body and tail are heavily spotted from top to bottom. An orange slack can be found on the bottom side of the gill plate. Their size typically ranges between 8 and 20 inches. Only hatchery cutthroat trout can be kept. All wild cutthroat trout must be released.

(http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/081211-6.jpg)

Mountain whitefish (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/fish_profile/mountain_whitefish.html) belong in the salmonid family. While their body is similar to a minnow, one can easily identify them by locating the adipose fin. Their mouth is small and protudes slightly. Their size typically ranges between 8 and 20 inches.


General etiquettes

When fishing for steelhead in a stream, it is considered rude to start just downstream from another angler who is already fishing. When approaching a run, always start from the head of it and work your way down so other anglers can have a chance to try it too. If other anglers are already fishing at a spot where you want to fish, then you should either move to a different spot or talk to them first. More likely than not, other anglers do not mind having you joining them.


2018/2019 steelhead brood collection program

Information to come.


Additional readings



Additional help

Your local tackle stores in the Lower Mainland and Fraser Valley provide excellent additional resource.

  • Berry's Bait and Tackle (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/advertiser/berrysbait/index.html)
  • Fred's Custom Tackle (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/advertiser/fredscustomtackle/index.html)
  • Pacific Angler (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/advertiser/pacificangler/index.html)
  • Sea-Run Fly & Tackle (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/advertiser/sea-run/index.html)
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jk47 on December 15, 2018, 09:24:55 AM
Surprised at the lack of content on this thread so far this December....Haven’t been able to get out yet myself - hoping the river will be back in shape for Sunday for a few hours before the next downpour...
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 15, 2018, 02:43:09 PM
Did not look to bad today from a distance.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: wildmanyeah on December 15, 2018, 03:27:47 PM
I think I saw the first one weighed in for the freds derby was in November...

I am going to make a bold prediction for the boxing day derby and say 10+ will be weighed in this year, if there is good river conditions.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on December 15, 2018, 04:51:10 PM
I am going to make a bold prediction for the boxing day derby and say 10+ will be weighed in this year, if there is good river conditions.
Your'e expecting better ocean survivals, right?
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: wildmanyeah on December 15, 2018, 05:46:12 PM
I think most of it just being hopeful, other part was I think when I reviewed some of your stream observation 4 years ago was a bit of a stronger run. Although your observations are more based on our wild early runs.

Ocean survival not sure, coho looks like they have improved but most of them stay in the straight of Georgia. Stamp I’ve herd is having a good steelhead return this year.

So I guess most of it is just hopeful optimism
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dave c on December 16, 2018, 09:49:55 AM
I think most of it just being hopeful, other part was I think when I reviewed some of your stream observation 4 years ago was a bit of a stronger run. Although your observations are more based on our wild early runs.

Ocean survival not sure, coho looks like they have improved but most of them stay in the straight of Georgia. Stamp I’ve herd is having a good steelhead return this year.

So I guess most of it is just hopeful optimism
X2
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: ByteMe on December 16, 2018, 10:01:36 AM

 Stamp I’ve herd is having a good steelhead return this year.


[/quote]

That is mainly bc there was no FN sockeye netting this year on The Somass.........which brings us back to the question of ocean survival or commercial netting for the decline of our fisheries?????????????
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: avid angler on December 16, 2018, 05:44:45 PM
Stamp I’ve herd is having a good steelhead return this year.




That is mainly bc there was no FN sockeye netting this year on The Somass.........which brings us back to the question of ocean survival or commercial netting for the decline of our fisheries?????????????

That would only effect the summer run fishery. Not winters.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Wiseguy on December 17, 2018, 05:06:41 PM
River is up and murky today. Not many anglers where I had a look at the conditions. Did not wet a line as I prefer minimum 2 feet visibility. Just my preference when steelhead fishing. 2 fish weighed into Fred’s so far. Another rain storm predicted for tonight. River is doubtful for tomorrow. If it cleans up at all this week I will be out trying for the first of what will be my 35th season. Tight lines
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 24, 2018, 12:06:11 PM
Made my first trip out this AM be it for only 20 minutes conditions far from the best but fishable. Hope it holds for the derby.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: iblly on December 28, 2018, 07:59:09 AM
Two small jet boats passed me yesterday just above the crossing. In thirty years I have never seen a boat that far up river.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on December 28, 2018, 11:08:36 AM
River looks good. Snowing out here and sticking a bit now.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 28, 2018, 12:08:54 PM
Must be slow as the Master and Buck have been skunked, or they had been when I have coffee with them this AM. I was going to go but the snow scared me away and I will go to badminton instead as is more pleasant.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on December 28, 2018, 12:27:41 PM
You missed one. ;)

(https://scontent.fyvr1-1.fna.fbcdn.net/v/t1.0-9/49385109_1977328695689752_4611534101139161088_n.jpg?_nc_cat=111&_nc_ht=scontent.fyvr1-1.fna&oh=bcc22a11d87a02b76329e302831a62d4&oe=5C993252)

https://www.facebook.com/fredscustomtackle/photos/a.115033951919245/1977328692356419
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 28, 2018, 02:56:14 PM
Nice one, pictures of fish should never have blood on them. I think I have said that a few times Rod, although I know you did not take it..
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on December 28, 2018, 04:45:36 PM
I'm biting, why no blood?
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: obie1fish on December 28, 2018, 04:51:46 PM
Nice conditions out there. Please be very careful, as the recent high water has done a number on some trail sections that lie right by the river. I was just up from Peach Road, about to go right along the water's edge when a section collapsed into the water, right where I was about to step. Looking around and under the bank, it was clear that the current had dug deep under the area. To say it isn't stable would be an understatement.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 28, 2018, 04:56:10 PM
I'm biting, why no blood?
Spoils the look of a beautiful fish but you will say they they look better alive. Glad they donot look like a farmed raised Atlantic Salmon. ::) :-X
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on December 28, 2018, 05:03:58 PM
Spoils the look of a beautiful fish but you will say they they look better alive. Glad they donot look like a farmed raised Atlantic Salmon. ::) :-X

Hmm, a bit testy? ;D Just wondering why.  Farmed Atlantic's have adipose fins  ;)
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Robert_G on December 29, 2018, 08:33:31 AM
Spoils the look of a beautiful fish but you will say they they look better alive. Glad they donot look like a farmed raised Atlantic Salmon. ::) :-X

I find PETA girls make similar comments to yours while wearing the latest leather fashions.
It's a dead fish...a dead fish that has been recently killed....so it's just natural for there to be blood in the picture. Why hide it? It is going to be cooked, eaten and enjoyed.
If I want the fish to look alive, then I will take the picture before I release it.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 29, 2018, 11:17:56 AM
I find PETA girls make similar comments to yours while wearing the latest leather fashions.
It's a dead fish...a dead fish that has been recently killed....so it's just natural for there to be blood in the picture. Why hide it? It is going to be cooked, eaten and enjoyed.
If I want the fish to look alive, then I will take the picture before I release it.
I have never seen the PETA girls Rob except Pam Andersen at a farmed fish rally a year or so on the Martin Sheen. Pam is related to my cousins on the Island, we had nice chat. Watch for the remarks to flow on this statement.lol

Back on topic water looked OK a while ago but the heavy rain, mild temp's along with the wind will chance it I am sure.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: swimmingwiththefishes on December 29, 2018, 02:18:15 PM
How’s the water looking now that the rain has slowed up?
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 29, 2018, 02:25:09 PM
I will go and have a look for you shortly.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dobrolub on December 29, 2018, 02:55:05 PM
(https://www.chilliwack.com/main/images/cameras/cam16.jpg)
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: stsfisher on December 29, 2018, 03:49:49 PM
Looking out my window and not seeing any of the new snow that was on the hill sides yesterday, along with the warm winds and heavy rain today, I would have to bet the river will not be fishable tomorrow.
Graph shows a drastic increase in flow that will only continue to climb into the evening.
https://wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/report/real_time_e.html?stn=08MH001
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 29, 2018, 06:17:24 PM
(https://www.chilliwack.com/main/images/cameras/cam16.jpg)
Visibility was About a foot at 3 pm in the canal, rain stopped but warm wind so most likely will be in rough shape in the AM.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 30, 2018, 01:30:21 PM
Water was in good shape, felt like spring out there this morning.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jk47 on December 30, 2018, 05:26:39 PM
Gonna be a fabulous day on the river tomorrow, and a busy one too no doubt. Good luck!
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 30, 2018, 05:45:47 PM
Gonna be a fabulous day on the river tomorrow, and a busy one too no doubt. Good luck!
Where are the fish, a slow start so far.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jk47 on December 31, 2018, 02:11:50 PM
Still in the ocean. Not a sniff for me and my partner all day. Heard there was another 15 plus lb fish brought in to the scale at Fred’s this morning though
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: psd1179 on December 31, 2018, 09:19:58 PM
Still in the ocean. Not a sniff for me and my partner all day. Heard there was another 15 plus lb fish brought in to the scale at Fred’s this morning though

Fished from Bridge to bridge. walked 10km today. Tired is all I get.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Hike_and_fish on January 01, 2019, 10:04:53 AM
The bucket brigade is cleaning all the "hatchery rainbows" from this system before they have time to migrate to sea.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fisherforever on January 01, 2019, 03:25:10 PM
9 lb 6 oz doe weighed in at Chilliwack Dart and Tackle this morning but not by me
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: John Revolver on January 02, 2019, 06:58:56 PM
The bucket brigade is cleaning all the "hatchery rainbows" from this system before they have time to migrate to sea.

I had abit of a chuckle at that one.

watching the graph level out and with rainfall warning looks like a blowout for tomorrow
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 02, 2019, 07:23:41 PM
16.907lb hatchery buck weighed in at Fred's today, plus one other 10lber weighed in by an angler who is not in the derby. 8)

https://www.facebook.com/fredscustomtackle/photos/a.115033951919245/1984782031611085/?type=3&theater
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 03, 2019, 10:43:04 AM
16.907lb hatchery buck weighed in at Fred's today, plus one other 10lber weighed in by an angler who is not in the derby. 8)

https://www.facebook.com/fredscustomtackle/photos/a.115033951919245/1984782031611085/?type=3&theater
Interesting as all the rain has taken in toll on conditions in the Lower anyway.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 03, 2019, 01:38:03 PM
Interesting as all the rain has taken in toll on conditions in the Lower anyway.

Time to bring out the swooshing rod! ;D
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 03, 2019, 02:24:33 PM
River nearly op 2 feet since the AM.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: wildmanyeah on January 03, 2019, 02:43:28 PM
Seems like we are getting december rains in January, interesting
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Fish Assassin on January 03, 2019, 03:11:53 PM
Just saw a couple of steelheads swimming up on Hastings Street in Vancouver
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 04, 2019, 12:13:15 PM
Needless to say today, "Mud."
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 06, 2019, 09:50:14 AM
Checked the river at first light in  the wind storm and visibility around a foot. Saw a coho that was making its last swim.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 07, 2019, 12:46:30 PM
Water nice but catching is tough.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 07, 2019, 12:59:22 PM
A few fish have been weighed in today. I guess I should go for a drive... ;D

(https://www.facebook.com/fredscustomtackle/photos/a.115033951919245/1991546990934589/?type=3&theater)

https://www.facebook.com/fredscustomtackle/posts/1991552467600708
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: greyghost on January 07, 2019, 05:28:51 PM
Water nice but catching is tough.
Um Chris, are you using the bait loop or threading the hook through the cork of the shuttlecock?
 ;)
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 08, 2019, 07:28:39 PM
Too windy today to use a shuttlecock as the wind blows it all around and a fish can not grab it.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on January 08, 2019, 07:45:16 PM
Super windy and cold too.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 15, 2019, 04:34:41 PM
Great conditions out there, level is dropping slowly but lots of fishable spots. It's a little breezy so layer up.

Quite a few fish are being weighed in at Fred's right now. You can follow the results at:

https://www.fredscustomtackle.com/derby
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 19, 2019, 12:42:21 PM
River is still in good shape with a bit of drizzle going on, still steadily dropping.

3 fish were weighed in at Fred's yesterday.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Spoonman on January 20, 2019, 05:53:56 PM
.....water awesome.......weather awesome.........luck crappy ......for me and buddy anyways ...........was awesome for the dude above and across from us that sealed the deal on a 10#.......
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: wildmanyeah on January 20, 2019, 07:10:54 PM
.....water awesome.......weather awesome.........luck crappy ......for me and buddy anyways ...........was awesome for the dude above and across from us that sealed the deal on a 10#.......

Just saw on FB 11 fish weighed in at Freds today! wowa!
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: RalphH on January 20, 2019, 10:20:55 PM
Just saw on FB 11 fish weighed in at Freds today! wowa!

10x more anglers on a Sunday than a Wednesday WMY!
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 21, 2019, 03:54:35 PM
Five more weighed in today as of mid afternoon when I stopped by the store to check it.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Fish Assassin on January 21, 2019, 04:00:45 PM
Five more weighed in today as of mid afternoon when I stopped by the store to check it.

Haven't seen your name on that list.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 21, 2019, 04:03:04 PM
I'm reserving it for the biggest one. ;D
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on January 21, 2019, 10:23:44 PM
Got one small hatch buck on Sunday. Beautiful day. Great water. First time out since last year. Dont get out much with new family. Aside from some goof ball named Tyler  in a raft that didnt like us asking if he was fishing thru where he pulled in with his raft. Not to low hole and show Etiquette. Proceeding to fish thru above him not below and catch the fish he missed. He decided to yell and swear as he paddled away at us. Guess he owns the river and fish in it. Then he pulls back in threatening to call dfo on us. Not sure why waste of resource. Said something about pulling a wild fish on the bank? Not my first rodeo saw the clipped fin when bringing it in. Some people think they own the river. I get out maybe a couple times a season now. Sunday on the Vedder. Guess it kinda takes a bit out of an otherwise beautiful day. I have had guys catch one behind me and I just say right on man good job. Sounds like lots of fish getting caught. Good luck tight lines.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: spoiler on January 22, 2019, 09:18:36 AM
Hey Mikeyman,
 there's always two sides to every story.
I have known Tyler since he was 6 years old and he is one of the finest Steelhead fishermen I know.
 I heard his side to this story and it sounds like you and your buddy walked in on him and proceeded to stand two feet away and start fishing.
that was after you attempted to walk below him and he gave you the evil eye.
he also said this is the second time you have done this to him.
my advise to you is to think twice about posting this kind of B.S. on a public forum when you don't know who you are dealing with!
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: EZ_Rolling on January 22, 2019, 09:48:28 AM
with the decreased parking in many places and break-in's that are happening on the river we are all being squeezed into tighter spaces the days of claiming a run to yourself need to end and we are all just going to need to get along.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: essyoo on January 22, 2019, 10:23:03 AM
Still relatively new to fishing on the Vedder, so please forgive my ignorance regarding this.

I keep hearing it's poor etiquette to start fishing down river from someone already fishing. Why is this? Many times when I have shown up to fish a run, there are a few people posted up and the only space left to fish is down river from them. Is this rule meant for people to move down to cover water? What if they're not moving (I rarely see people moving to cover more than where they are standing)?
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bigblockfox on January 22, 2019, 10:24:02 AM
the egos that come out during steelhead season never cease to amaze me. i'm the man, no i'm the man, lol. i got low holed on saturday. did i have a tantrum, no. just carried about my buisness and moved on. its the vedder man. its gonna happen.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 22, 2019, 10:25:44 AM
Still relatively new to fishing on the Vedder, so please forgive my ignorance regarding this.

I keep hearing it's poor etiquette to start fishing down river from someone already fishing. Why is this? Many times when I have shown up to fish a run, there are a few people posted up and the only space left to fish is down river from them. Is this rule meant for people to move down to cover water? What if they're not moving (I rarely see people moving to cover more than where they are standing)?

In those situations, I would always ask. :) Communication eliminates 99% of the problems. If the angler indicates that he or she is working downstream, then head above him or her.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 22, 2019, 10:27:25 AM
the egos that come out during steelhead season never cease to amaze me. i'm the man, no i'm the man, lol. i got low holed on saturday. did i have a tantrum, no. just carried about my buisness and moved on. its the vedder man. its gonna happen.

Yep. The ones who complain the loudest about etiquettes and crowds are usually the most problematic ones, that has been shown on here numerous times.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: blaydRnr on January 22, 2019, 02:41:03 PM
Hey Mikeyman,
 there's always two sides to every story.
I have known Tyler since he was 6 years old and he is one of the finest Steelhead fishermen I know.
 I heard his side to this story and it sounds like you and your buddy walked in on him and proceeded to stand two feet away and start fishing.
that was after you attempted to walk below him and he gave you the evil eye.
he also said this is the second time you have done this to him.
my advise to you is to think twice about posting this kind of B.S. on a public forum when you don't know who you are dealing with!

If I'm reading it right Tyler is claiming they stood just above him and fished the same line he was drifting. If that was the case, then yah that would be a dick move...but as you said, there's always two sides to every story. He also threatened to call DFO accusing them of banking a wild fish which was clearly a hatch, so with that said...would it be fair to say calling them out the way you did might be presumptuous? We weren't there so the only person who could really make an argument on this forum would be Tyler himself. As Rodney pointed out miscommunication causes 99% of the problems...The 1% I reserve for elitism.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: spoiler on January 22, 2019, 03:25:47 PM
blaydRnr,
just so you know, my son also witnessed this move so it's not just Tyler's word I'm speaking on.
the old time steelheaders on this forum know who I am and know that I started teaching my son and his friends how to fish on the Vedder when they were 6 years old.
Besides passing my experience to them (51 years worth) I also tried to teach them etiquette and how to act appropriately around other fishermen.
But because they have a strong sense of right and wrong they also don't have a problem telling people what's up.
Tyler said the spot he was fishing had nobody above him within sight.
he said there was a mile of room above him but the two elected to stand within a couple of feet from him.
Even after he remarked" are you kidding?" they continued fishing.
He said they dragged the fish up on the bank so quick he didn't figure they would have had time to identify whether the fish was a hatchery or not which is why he made the comment.
My son and his friends are in their mid thirties so they all have 30 years experience on the Vedder as well as many other famous Steelhead rivers.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on January 22, 2019, 04:38:51 PM
Always 2 sides. I assure you we asked if he was fishing thru. Walked well above and didnt start casting until he was making his way down the run. Would never go below somone. The fish was identified before coming near the edge. Miss understanding I suppose. I have only been out. Maybe 2 or 3 times in the last 2years. Cant say I ever low holed anyone before to my knowledge or even had a chance to. We started at the head of the run when he had already started and was midway down. But hey move on. Delete the posts if you find it offensive.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: big_fish on January 22, 2019, 04:49:33 PM
Always 2 sides. I assure you we asked if he was fishing thru. Walked well above and didnt start casting until he was making his way down the run. Would never go below somone. The fish was identified before coming near the edge. Miss understanding I suppose. I have only been out. Maybe 2 or 3 times in the last 2years. Cant say I ever low holed anyone before to my knowledge or even had a chance to. We started at the head of the run when he had already started and was midway down. But hey move on. Delete the posts if you find it offensive.

Obviously what you've considered as enough distance is too close for those who know what they are doing.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on January 22, 2019, 04:56:29 PM
Not sure witness as there was nobody else there asides from a non fisherman with his son that doesnt fish the river. The other guys anywhere near where the next run down. So cant really get a good view that far away. All subjective I guess. Been fishing for 30 years. Guess everyone feels they own the river. Last time somone caught a fish behind me that I missed I congradulated him for getting the one I missed.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on January 22, 2019, 05:02:19 PM
So define to close? 1 mile? The next run up? How about mid river. Dont fish the lower u low holed me.lol.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: big_fish on January 22, 2019, 05:05:33 PM
Your old posts always complained about fishing in runs that are too crowded so obviously you are used to that type of fishing and got called out for fishing too close.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on January 22, 2019, 05:14:50 PM
Well there is a big difference between coho season and steelhead my friend. A few old posts may have mentioned snagging. Flossing and illigal unethical fishing and crouding. Read up more bud. Usually it is the oppososite if one complains about crouds they move away. Making assumptions to stand up for strange behavior. In your opinion if somone has gotten down to mid run should another be able to fish thru from the top after first asking and waiting for them to move thru. That is proper etique in my books. Let the other guy fish first if he was there first. Dont throw a fit because somone caught one over water u already fished.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on January 22, 2019, 05:27:40 PM
Hey Mikeyman,
 there's always two sides to every story.
I have known Tyler since he was 6 years old and he is one of the finest Steelhead fishermen I know.
 I heard his side to this story and it sounds like you and your buddy walked in on him and proceeded to stand two feet away and start fishing.
that was after you attempted to walk below him and he gave you the evil eye.
he also said this is the second time you have done this to him.
my advise to you is to think twice about posting this kind of B.S. on a public forum when you don't know who you are dealing with!
Well I think there r a few fibs in that version. We asked first and stood there waiting for a bit then walked well above. Know who we r dealing with? Sounds a bit like a threat as well. Over a fish? Supposed to be enjoyable man. Get out for what might be one of a few trips this year and deal with some guy swearing and yelling cause he missed a fish. Lol. 2 ft is an exageration in itself. X that by atleast 40 or more.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fishingwithjohn on January 22, 2019, 05:33:57 PM
If theres a bar with a guy at the top you best believe I wont be walking 10 not even 20 feet down from him but if I start in the middle of the channel...any complaints will be happily ignored
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on January 22, 2019, 07:21:50 PM
If I'm reading it right Tyler is claiming they stood just above him and fished the same line he was drifting. If that was the case, then yah that would be a dick move...but as you said, there's always two sides to every story. He also threatened to call DFO accusing them of banking a wild fish which was clearly a hatch, so with that said...would it be fair to say calling them out the way you did might be presumptuous? We weren't there so the only person who could really make an argument on this forum would be Tyler himself. As Rodney pointed out miscommunication causes 99% of the problems...The 1% I reserve for elitism.
I would say not presumptious. Been steelheading for 25 years and know we did nothing wrong and that swearing threatening and throwing a hissy fit because another guy caught a fish behind water already fished is wrong not to mention calling dfo for no good reason is a complete waste of resources. Some of these guys think they r the best king steelheader and Own the river.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jk47 on January 22, 2019, 07:26:50 PM
So... how ‘bout those conditions, hmmmm? Little bit of heavy rain tonight, barely bumping the graph so far....just what the river needs... 8)
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jk47 on January 23, 2019, 06:41:25 AM
Well now the graph has spiked a little. With no rain in the forecast now until Sunday, should make for some good fishin next few days. Good thing...seems some on this forum are a little upset and need to catch a fish!  :o
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dave c on January 23, 2019, 10:53:26 AM
I used to get bent out of shape when low holed or witnessed questionable etiquette.  I decided awhile ago that i wouldn't let it ruin my day on the river. I still try to educate when i can and if the person i speak to becomes belligerent i walk away and hope that they reconsider their actions.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Wiseguy on January 23, 2019, 07:59:36 PM
A little late to the party here but here is my two cents. Due to the amount of fish getting wieghed in at Fred’s and broadcasted all over social media there is a huge increase in pressure this yr compared to the last couple of yrs.This season in particular I’m am also noticing a big increase in rafts and pontoon boats drifting the river.  On a river with with almost all runs having bank access and on busy days most runs if not all having bank anglers fishing them I wonder if drifting the river is even worth it? The Vedder is not the Cowichan or Stamp where fishing out of a boat is much more productive due to limited bank access.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jk47 on January 24, 2019, 04:19:24 AM
Let me be the first to tell you drifting the river is 100% worth it! Honestly it’s  the only way to get away from the crowds and actually have a chance at a run by yourself.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: poper on January 24, 2019, 11:20:00 AM
I agree on that you will find  some nice water to yourself, but Im not a fan of having 3 to 4 guys floating over a run I’m fishing, but I’m not going to yell and scream about it lol,seems to be a bit busyer then normal,I must be in the wrong spots. Been nice out,waters in good shape
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: wildmanyeah on January 24, 2019, 11:55:43 AM
Its warm out, water is in good condition and people are catching fish. Its one of the last steelhead runs left in BC with a reasonable chance to catch a fish. It's one of only a few rivers left where you can bonk a steelhead and be a hero that you are ridding the planet of inferior hatchery fish.  Oh and just happens to be next to one of the most populated areas in BC.  The fact that it still has steelhead in it is somewhat remarkable.

its going to be busy
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Wiseguy on January 24, 2019, 06:01:39 PM
Saw a large wild chrome  steelhead today. Unfortunately it was dead laying in a side channel. I suspect a casualty of poor fish handling skills. Sad to see this. An eagle was in a tree nearby eyeballing an easy meal. I’m hoping the eagle got it so at least it’s not a complete waste.  :'(
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BBarley on January 24, 2019, 10:01:06 PM
Saw a large wild chrome  steelhead today. Unfortunately it was dead laying in a side channel. I suspect a casualty of poor fish handling skills. Sad to see this. An eagle was in a tree nearby eyeballing an easy meal. I’m hoping the eagle got it so at least it’s not a complete waste.  :'(

I've always gotten a chuckle out of the lazy eagles that pick up the stale ol' sockeye in the Stellako in the fall, hundreds of km's travelled to have your withered old "ready to spawn" corpse torn apart by some eager eagle looking for breakfast. I used to think of how much of a waste it was, until I realized that everything is in balance and these types of things happened long before we ever existed. We as a species are the ones that aren't in balance.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: RalphH on January 25, 2019, 10:33:06 AM
I used to get bent out of shape when low holed or witnessed questionable etiquette.  I decided awhile ago that i wouldn't let it ruin my day on the river. I still try to educate when i can and if the person i speak to becomes belligerent i walk away and hope that they reconsider their actions.

if a response could be voted as best of the month - this one should win!

Thanks!

Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 25, 2019, 05:45:19 PM
Felt like spring out there today and the river must be full of fish as I lost one, after it jumped 3 times, I missed it once too the thrill of hooking a steelhead returned to me after very little effort being put into it this days, maybe 3 hours total but being away for 11 days did not help in getting out.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 25, 2019, 09:04:39 PM
Felt like spring out there today and the river must be full of fish as I lost one, after it jumped 3 times, I missed it once too the thrill of hooking a steelhead returned to me after very little effort being put into it this days, maybe 3 hours total but being away for 11 days did not help in getting out.

Tons of fish, even my float went down once today when I popped out there briefly. ;D
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bigsnag on January 25, 2019, 09:09:42 PM
if a response could be voted as best of the month - this one should win!

Thanks!
X 2
and good to see you back despite all those bullets
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: RalphH on January 26, 2019, 06:44:06 PM
they'll never run me out of Dodge! ;D
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Wiseguy on January 27, 2019, 06:12:56 PM
Wow! Hordes of people on the river this weekend! I thought it was coho season on the Vedder! With the low and clear water conditions most went home empty handed. I did not see a single fish caught in my travels.
Title: !
Post by: bobby b on January 27, 2019, 10:47:22 PM
I managed to find an empty spot today mid river 8am ish..   Lost one on the 3rd cast of the day! DANG!!!!

 Also hit a few spots in the upper river but... soo many people !!!

Fished the lower / mid river again before calling it a day... caught and released 2 hatch rainbows!  Water was gorgeous today!

My 4th trip out this season.... still no steel to hand.

Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: nevertoolate on January 29, 2019, 03:46:09 PM
I dont really understand the whole "low hole" business.    If its a guy is at the upper end of a run and its only him and I or one other guy.    And also what about when the guy just stands in one spot for an hour?   I could understand going above him if he is moving down, but not if he is just standing there forever. 
Personally this has never been a problem that affects me.  I never catch a fish anyway.   Up or down.  So what does it matter.
 
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on January 29, 2019, 06:54:14 PM
Steelhead etiquitte. I ask first if a guy is fishing thru or not and if he minds if I fish thru otherwise. 95% won't care. 5% will get bent out of shape either way. Steelhead are agressive and if your presentation is right and there is a fish there first water will typically get the fish. If there are fence posters it should be no prob to fish thru below them.   
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 29, 2019, 08:04:32 PM
Another lovely January day out there today. Fished from 11am to 4pm, only covered a few runs, enjoyed some conversations with many who read the forum. Float finally went down just after 3pm but it came off after a few seconds. Water was pretty clear for the most part today, got slightly siltier halfway through the afternoon, which was kind of nice.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bobby b on January 30, 2019, 09:31:18 AM
A Beauty day indeed Rodney!
A bit of snow melt prob accounts for the water colour change.


Fished mostly mid/upper river
A bit windy in the lower, no wind in the upper.
My buddy managed 1 wild doe and I got  .....  1 rainbow....at least I got a tug!

Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bobby b on January 30, 2019, 09:40:51 AM
And also what about when the guy just stands in one spot for an hour?   I could understand going above him if he is moving down, but not if he is just standing there forever. 


This happened to me yesterday. Got to a run ....only one guy there, at the head of the run. I waited a while expecting he was gonna walk through the run ..... nope he was posted there. So I nodded and pointed my rod to indicate if ok to get in below. He didn't respond, just had an indignant frown face or was he just trying to look serious?!?   I walked in anyway.. I slowly made my way down the run ...... I got to the tail out ...a long way away. Looked back and he was still there!!
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Wiseguy on January 30, 2019, 04:29:23 PM
This happened to me yesterday. Got to a run ....only one guy there, at the head of the run. I waited a while expecting he was gonna walk through the run ..... nope he was posted there. So I nodded and pointed my rod to indicate if ok to get in below. He didn't respond, just had an indignant frown face or was he just trying to look serious?!?   I walked in anyway.. I slowly made my way down the run ...... I got to the tail out ...a long way away. Looked back and he was still there!!
  May have hooked a fish in that spot and was hoping it would bite again. That’s the only time I will stay in one spot for a spell longer before moving on. I always ask when stepping into a run below someone. Common courtesy.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: poper on January 30, 2019, 07:17:38 PM
  May have hooked a fish in that spot and was hoping it would bite again. That’s the only time I will stay in one spot for a spell longer before moving on. I always ask when stepping into a run below someone. Common courtesy.
I’m the same way, if someone is on lock down, just ask first and 99% of the time it’s not a problem,anglers just need to communicate with each other lol, easy to say I had the 1% happen this year
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 01, 2019, 01:22:16 PM
Today's rain was starting to color up the river today, still raining not sure how bad it will get. Maybe we will get an update later from someone on the river.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Wiseguy on February 01, 2019, 03:25:26 PM
River hasn’t risen much but the visibility is down to a few inches now. We need much more rain to bring the river level up. Think I will do a rain dance!  :o
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 01, 2019, 04:10:53 PM
River hasn’t risen much but the visibility is down to a few inches now. We need much more rain to bring the river level up. Think I will do a rain dance!  :o
Thanks for the update, still raining hard.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dave c on February 02, 2019, 05:52:03 PM
Any updates?
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on February 02, 2019, 06:09:44 PM
No fish poor visibility.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 02, 2019, 06:55:36 PM
Any updates?
I was told nearing 2 feet.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: psd1179 on February 02, 2019, 08:54:18 PM
sneak out for a few hours fishing in the late afternoon. Unfortunately, so many anglers had the same plan.
Water remain similar to a few days before. a little cloudy water which is perfect.

Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steelhawk on February 02, 2019, 09:37:00 PM
Water was perfect at lower river when I started in the afternoon. At least 3 to 4 ft visibility. Heard some fish taken in lower runs in the morning. But didn't see anything in the afternoon. With high coloured water dropping to clear visibility, I would expect more fish than what I saw at these popular runs.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dave c on February 03, 2019, 07:29:18 AM
Tight lines to those who gave honest reports. Thanks
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 03, 2019, 03:05:41 PM
As can be expected today, strong cold NE winds with blowing snow in the Valley today
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 04, 2019, 06:55:34 AM
-10 this am and strong outflow winds, the river will be vacant today.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dave c on February 04, 2019, 07:47:19 AM
-10 this am and strong outflow winds, the river will be vacant today.
hopefully the winds die down Chris. I have tomorrow and Wednesday off
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: steelheaderpin on February 04, 2019, 11:44:58 AM
How’s the river clarity these days??
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 04, 2019, 11:54:48 AM
How’s the river clarity these days??
I am sure it will be fine but the winds and wind chill is too much to fish, for me anyway.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: wildmanyeah on February 04, 2019, 02:37:10 PM
I am sure it will be fine but the winds and wind chill is too much to fish, for me anyway.

A little chilly for the hero pics too
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 05, 2019, 10:52:05 AM
A little chilly for the hero pics too
Yes, fish should never be taken out of the water in such conditions for a picture.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dave c on February 07, 2019, 07:55:17 AM
Love this cold weather.  Hit a few popular runs last few days and was pleasantly surprised to be the only one there. Steelhead fishing with no drama......PRICELESS
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 08, 2019, 05:38:48 PM
Strong winds once again today and cold. Only the brave will brave the conditions tomorrow. :D
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jk47 on February 09, 2019, 08:21:29 AM
Brrrrrrr...Not for me thanks. I keep thinking I’m going to go out and that there must be some untouched fish stacked up in a few places with the river being empty of anglers for a week, but damn - the comforts of home are feeling quite cozy! Maybe tomorrow..
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on February 22, 2019, 01:11:22 PM
It has been snowing heavily in the past two hours. I would not come out this way unless you really have to.

River has been quite low. It had some more colour to it in the past couple of days which is good.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: wildmanyeah on February 22, 2019, 03:46:04 PM
It has been snowing heavily in the past two hours. I would not come out this way unless you really have to.

River has been quite low. It had some more colour to it in the past couple of days which is good.

How many do you think will get weighed in at freds today lol
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jk47 on February 25, 2019, 05:49:25 PM
Tough fishin this past week...low and clear......We need a major rain event to bring in the spring run of Steelhead
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mikeyman on February 25, 2019, 08:10:01 PM
Ya slow. Heard of one in area we started. Fished a tonne of water. Wasnt till last run I tried Finally had 3 hits. 2 hook ups. One big wild trout or small steely syndrome and lost the other which was bigger. Nice day. Bit icy in areas be careful hiking. Tight lines.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steelhawk on March 06, 2019, 06:56:05 PM
No update for quite a while. Is water so low & clear and fishing so dead slow that everyone just quits? Lol. Fred's just weighed in another 16 pounder to take the 2nd place in the Derby. I guess if you are lucky, anything can be possible.  :) ;)
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bobby b on March 07, 2019, 12:04:01 PM
Not everyone has called it quits.... I still run into quite a few anglers ...even on weekdays.

I still try when I can, just not having much luck.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Drewhill on March 07, 2019, 01:39:21 PM
Don't think anyone is having much luck. Only 5 weighed in so far in March and most of them are tiny.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dave c on March 08, 2019, 11:05:11 AM
Don't think anyone is having much luck. Only 5 weighed in so far in March and most of them are tiny.
I think the reason so many small ones are showing up is due to the slim pickings right now. Normally guys would be putting these back in the hopes of getting something bigger.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steelhawk on March 08, 2019, 07:41:36 PM
I was there Thursday afternoon. Can't imagine the low water. Some runs literally didn't have enough flow to carry the float downstream and the surface is as smooth as glass. It will take a very hungry or aggressive steelhead to go for anything you offer them with so little flow. Perhaps need to spin spoon, twitch jigs or strip flies to get some more action to the presentation. The water is so low people just cross the river at the shallow tail out at will. Talking about easy access. Lol. Not a fish in sight in the afternoon. I think the big fish will have a hard time going up some shallow bars and that is probably only small fish are coming up.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: John Revolver on March 11, 2019, 02:15:38 PM
No update for quite a while. Is water so low & clear and fishing so dead slow that everyone just quits? Lol. Fred's just weighed in another 16 pounder to take the 2nd place in the Derby. I guess if you are lucky, anything can be possible.  :) ;)


 so far this is the least trafficked Steelhead conditions thread I've ever seen since joining this forum '13
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: psd1179 on March 11, 2019, 03:35:35 PM

 so far this is the least trafficed Steelhead conditions thread I've ever seen since joining this forum '13


I fished this saturday morning for 6 hours. The average depth is 1-2 feet. I have waded cross the river numerous times without any difficulty. Very few people around. 
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Aki on March 13, 2019, 06:47:05 PM
Went for a couple of hours this afternoon mid to lower river, for the first time this year. Water looks good (although low) and heard of a couple hooked but very quiet for me. Beautiful day though and worth a good walk!
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: psd1179 on March 15, 2019, 09:56:25 AM
Today is the last day of derby. 
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Bingbamboom on March 25, 2019, 05:09:11 PM
Finally,after months of work, I have a day off on Wednesday. Driving from downtown Vancouver and hoping to find out what the river conditions are, and if it’s worth the gas money. Any information would be appreciated.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 25, 2019, 09:50:52 PM
It is worth a trip, I think you will find a fish, any day fishing is a better than a day at work.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on March 30, 2019, 08:12:41 PM
I thought this warm weather was supposed to colour up the water a bit? ;D
Went for a walk with a rod this afternoon. It's still quite clear and low.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: nevertoolate on March 31, 2019, 09:46:10 AM
thinking of going out this week.    Is it all finished there or what?
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on March 31, 2019, 11:45:00 AM
It's all finished for those who do not renew their freshwater fishing licence tonight. ;)

For the rest, fishing should be pretty good for a few more weeks. ;D
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: DBM on April 01, 2019, 08:19:14 PM
I played hooky from work this afternoon and walked the river in several spots from the crossing down to the canal, I didn't have my gear with me so it was more of a scouting trip. 

Water is very low and clear, sunny conditions on top of that probably didn't help the fishing out much.  I'd think if you weren't on the river at first light you're not going to have much luck.  Still a gorgeous day to be out on the water and not at work.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steelhawk on April 04, 2019, 06:49:53 AM
Is the river blown or muddy? With the jump in river level graph, those poor steelies trapped in the lower river finally can break free to go up river.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: DBM on April 04, 2019, 06:55:13 PM
Is the river blown or muddy? With the jump in river level graph, those poor steelies trapped in the lower river finally can break free to go up river.
   

I managed to hook one on Tuesday but I sure put alot of miles on my boots trying to find some fishable water, funny how all the tackle shop or guide reports say the fishing is good. lol

There's a good chance I'll be too sick to go into work tomorrow.  I can let you know what the conditions are like if I make it out there.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bigsnag on April 04, 2019, 11:11:30 PM
Is the river blown or muddy? With the jump in river level graph, those poor steelies trapped in the lower river finally can break free to go up river.

They pass in the night.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steelhawk on April 05, 2019, 01:48:44 AM
Yes some small ones could go up the shallow bars but most big ones trapped in one infamous spot. They rolled often but very resistant to bite. I heard from friend fishing there today no fish roll IMG and no one caught any. They probably went up river with the higher flow.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: psd1179 on April 05, 2019, 03:13:15 PM
   

I managed to hook one on Tuesday but I sure put alot of miles on my boots trying to find some fishable water, funny how all the tackle shop or guide reports say the fishing is good. lol

There's a good chance I'll be too sick to go into work tomorrow.  I can let you know what the conditions are like if I make it out there.

It is good when there is catching
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on April 06, 2019, 10:39:35 AM
River conditions were still excellent last night, haven't checked today. Plenty of fish actively showing themselves on the surface. I managed to break one off last night, just a brief quickie the river after 7pm in that nasty storm.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: psd1179 on April 07, 2019, 08:29:45 PM
River conditions were still excellent last night, haven't checked today. Plenty of fish actively showing themselves on the surface. I managed to break one off last night, just a brief quickie the river after 7pm in that nasty storm.

I did not see anything rolling from vedder crossing to hatchery. the water did not rise fast as expected. but over all good condition.
I am done with vedder. Would like to explore squamish river later instead
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on April 11, 2019, 10:41:28 PM
Water was beautiful today. Still seeing some fish rolling.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on April 18, 2019, 11:48:32 PM
Water has been beautiful but the level is spiking now, almost at 2m.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: psd1179 on May 08, 2019, 01:03:12 PM
How does the river look like? any photo?
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Wiseguy on May 08, 2019, 03:14:44 PM
River looks very nice. Steelhead green with medium flow. Saw one angler flyfishing below the crossing which is open to flyfishing only now.
Title: Re: 2018/19 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: psd1179 on May 08, 2019, 04:13:49 PM
River looks very nice. Steelhead green with medium flow. Saw one angler flyfishing below the crossing which is open to flyfishing only now.

The water level is at 2000, I guess not many gravel bar exposed