Fishing with Rod Discussion Forum

Fishing in British Columbia => General Discussion => Topic started by: Rodney on December 26, 2011, 10:24:21 AM

Title: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on December 26, 2011, 10:24:21 AM
This thread should have been started earlier. :)

(http://i217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/091201-1.jpg)

Between early December and late April, the Chilliwack River offers a productive winter steelhead fishery for both local and visiting anglers around the Fraser Valley and Lower Mainland. While other nearby systems also provide such a fishery, the Chilliwack River yields more success due to the amount of fish being produced by the Chilliwack River Hatchery. This thread has several objectives:



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'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.

(http://s217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/th_081211-2.jpg) (http://s217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/081211-2.jpg) (http://s217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/th_081211-3.jpg) (http://s217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/081211-3.jpg) (http://s217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/th_081211-7.jpg) (http://s217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/081211-7.jpg) (http://s217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/th_081211-8.jpg) (http://s217.photobucket.com/albums/cc90/fishingwithrod/forum/081211-8.jpg)

Resident rainbow trout 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 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 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 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.


2012 steelhead brood collection program

Information to come.


Additional readings



Additional video clips

The following steelhead instructional series are available for our subscribers (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/tour/index.html).

Steelhead Basics (21 minutes 55 seconds) (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/subscriber/steelheading-basics-01.html)
In this instructional series, seasoned Chilliwack angler Nick Basok from Chilliwack Dart and Tackle explains what type of gear you need when targeting Vedder winter steelhead.

Hunting for Late Season Steels (11 minutes 47 seconds) (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/subscriber/2010-05.html)
Episode five of 2010's video diary features a late season steelhead fishing trip on a very warm April day. Nick Basok and Chris Gadsden, two experienced Chilliwack River anglers, search for the most prized freshwater gamefish in British Columbia, Canada.


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)
  • Chilliwack Dart & Tackle (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/advertiser/chwkdart/index.html)
  • Fred's Custom Tackle (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/advertiser/fredscustomtackle/index.html)
  • Hatch Match'r Fly and Tackle (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/advertiser/hatchmatchr/index.html)
  • Nikka Fishing & Marine (http://www.fishingwithrod.com/advertiser/nikka/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: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on December 26, 2011, 06:06:40 PM
Lol... I'll report conditions tomorrow!!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BigFisher on December 26, 2011, 06:10:31 PM
Waters getting really clear, and the fish are still a little shell shocked.  ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 26, 2011, 06:47:02 PM
Waters getting really clear, and the fish are still a little shell shocked.  ::)
but you got one. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fisher man on December 26, 2011, 08:47:47 PM
is there any predictions for tomorrow  ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 26, 2011, 09:03:19 PM
is there any predictions for tomorrow  ;)
Hope for not too much rain.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on December 27, 2011, 01:51:10 PM
Water was perfect today... Really overcast and raining a bit out.  But not much yet. Forecast was calling for 50mm of rain out here tomorrow... Hope that changed.   :-\
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 27, 2011, 04:03:09 PM
Some color late this afternoon.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Tee on December 27, 2011, 06:35:36 PM
Left around 4:00 pm. Light rain on and off throughout the day, but started to rain more steadily in towards late afternoon.

Like Chris mentioned, water started to color up when I was leaving.

Would appreciate the water conditions tomorrow morning as I am hoping to hit the river.

Thanks,
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: jon5hill on December 28, 2011, 07:58:34 AM
Just got off the phone with Fred's: River came up about a foot and is blown out. 6 inches of vis.


http://www.wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/graph/graph_e.html?stn=08MH001 (http://www.wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/graph/graph_e.html?stn=08MH001)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 28, 2011, 11:46:44 AM
Just checked river at Lickman, visibility one foot in the pouring rain. A good number of people out there.  :-\
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 28, 2011, 02:43:21 PM
Visibility still a foot to 14 inches.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Animal Chin on December 28, 2011, 04:10:12 PM
Thanks for the reports Chris.

I just got a new rod, so I'm going out tomorrow regardless. At least it's not suppose to rain tomorrow.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: GENERAL-SHERMAN on December 28, 2011, 05:06:53 PM
fished from 10 to 4 (upper and lower). the lower river was very fishable 12-14 inches of vis untill about 3 30ish  there was lots of small chunks of debris floating down :(.  if it keeps raining tonight like it is right now i cant see the lower being fishable at all. the upper had 2.5 feet above tolmie to thurston and its started pouring pretty good around 1ish.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 28, 2011, 06:18:37 PM
fished from 10 to 4 (upper and lower). the lower river was very fishable 12-14 inches of vis untill about 3 30ish  there was lots of small chunks of debris floating down :(.  if it keeps raining tonight like it is right now i cant see the lower being fishable at all. the upper had 2.5 feet above tolmie to thurston and its started pouring pretty good around 1ish.
Very heavy rain now, tomorrow looks like a couch day.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Noahs Arc on December 28, 2011, 07:00:22 PM
saw a small fish walk into freds today and one more wild caught lower river, gonna give it a shot tomorrow regardless
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on December 28, 2011, 08:12:34 PM
Looked like the river came up quickly

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s320x320/400231_10150547063239254_700254253_10559793_969957293_n.jpg)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 28, 2011, 09:04:22 PM
saw a small fish walk into freds today and one more wild caught lower river, gonna give it a shot tomorrow regardless
;D I like that, walking fish. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: ChumChaser on December 29, 2011, 03:09:12 PM
River in great shape today, should be perfect tomorrow.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 29, 2011, 04:44:17 PM
Very few fish taken today I was told.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 30, 2011, 11:52:11 AM
Conditions are A1, might have to go out and catch one. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on December 30, 2011, 10:17:26 PM
Conditions are A1, might have to go out and catch one. ;D

Yes they where but man the wind mad it tough
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on December 30, 2011, 11:03:40 PM
beautiful water today, tough catching for me and my buddy despite the good report from fred's
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on December 31, 2011, 08:35:16 AM
beautiful water today, tough catching for me and my buddy despite the good report from fred's
Yup, this.  Saw the reports on FB when I got home...lol  Grrrr...haha  I have clean up garage day and set up new crap day for the wife, but I'll be back out there for the next 4 days after today before I hace to go back to work... ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on December 31, 2011, 06:05:01 PM
A very pleasant afternoon out there today great water conditions too, I missed a fish of some sorts on a cooked bug, it also grabbed the bug as I reeled in, did not see it though and would not give me another opportunity.

Only heard of one wild taken, up river but only talked to one other angler.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 01, 2012, 01:20:54 PM
Looks like some clay fell in today somer time as the water is now murky.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dennis.t on January 01, 2012, 01:39:33 PM
The flow is silted right up! Murkey,murkey conditions! Just had a look at the crossing and it was deserted! Anglers must have headed up past the clay banks!Mother Nature throws out a stinker for New Years. :o
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fly fisher on January 01, 2012, 02:50:31 PM
the clay bank gave out at about um 9 am and it was just above borden. water was perfect before that saw two fish landed. one was my hatch and one wild both over ten pounds. was a great morning till the river coloured up. i got my hatch at about 7:30 to 8 am. i was with my dad so i had to stand around as my day ended only 8 casts in.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: blaydRnr on January 01, 2012, 04:30:26 PM
to top it all off, the wind decided to make an appearance and make conditions more difficult. :-\
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Trout Slayer on January 01, 2012, 04:31:11 PM
Just got back, visibility in the lower end is 6" tops... think tomorrow is a write off for sure!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: paul1971 on January 01, 2012, 05:03:09 PM
river was mint till around 9:30 then quick as a flash visibility went down to 8" max, spoiled what was shaping up to be a good day.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 01, 2012, 05:44:40 PM
Guess it hadn't made it to the lower then yet... I left there at around 12:30 and it was still looking nice and green with about 3+ feet vis.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: jetboatjim on January 01, 2012, 06:00:28 PM
left at 245 and was still ok in the lower.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: GENERAL-SHERMAN on January 01, 2012, 06:08:24 PM
around 3 it started coloring up huge. in 30 minutes it went from 4 feet to about a foot.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: paul1971 on January 01, 2012, 06:47:19 PM
Was fishing Thompson park area maybe it was more like 10:30 or so but it coloured up quickly.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fly fisher on January 01, 2012, 07:03:46 PM
i was fishing close to the slide zone no spots given but it started at 9 am were i was
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Fish or cut bait. on January 02, 2012, 07:24:50 AM
Quote
i was fishing close to the slide zone no spots given but it started at 9 am were i was
Were you the young guy working a spey rod?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 02, 2012, 10:12:19 AM
any updated cond would be appreciated.
Fred's web site reporting conditions OK today and 2 fish brought in today.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 02, 2012, 01:40:56 PM
Conditions good with many people on the flow, observed some picket fences in a number of runs. :o
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fly fisher on January 02, 2012, 02:16:02 PM
Were you the young guy working a spey rod?
na man i was fishing my pin at a spot below it i got a nice 14 pound hatch tho
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 02, 2012, 08:18:14 PM
Didn't rain all day while out... River was in great shape at 4pm.  Raining pretty good now tho.  So won't know till first light.  If I can get up i'm heading put again FL.  I'll update when I get to the river.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 03, 2012, 08:02:37 AM
River looks ok, green color but not a whole lotta vis. Definitely fishable tho.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on January 03, 2012, 08:51:04 AM
They are expecting 50+mm of rain in the next 24 hours, that will definatly have an impact on the river. Looks like the river levels are on their way back up.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 03, 2012, 10:45:22 AM
No rain yet.  Looking grey tho. I found one beauty, pity I screwed up the first tail attempt.  I didn't get another chance.  :'(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steel_Mo_Head on January 03, 2012, 01:47:13 PM
I headed out this AM and got lucky!

(http://i43.tinypic.com/s6t56c.jpg)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: the carp on January 03, 2012, 02:43:37 PM
beauty fish, good job moe nice photo
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 03, 2012, 03:50:05 PM
Heavy rain now.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: floatfisher on January 03, 2012, 06:45:26 PM
Any reports of water vis near dark? I'm thinking of making the drive tomorrow and wondering what gear to bring with and have rigged up.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 03, 2012, 06:58:09 PM
Any reports of water vis near dark? I'm thinking of making the drive tomorrow and wondering what gear to bring with and have rigged up.
From fishing report, " by 4 oclock this afternoon it was puking bad. visibility has gone to near nothing"
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: floatfisher on January 03, 2012, 07:18:50 PM
Thanks chris that's what I figured was going to happen. I'm going to have to find the meat stick in the garage and dig the big bright smelly bait from the deep freeze.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on January 03, 2012, 10:13:24 PM
Tamahi started to color up around 2:30 so i headed upriver and left Borden at 4:30. The Ranger slide was puking quite badly and my guess would be zero vis for tomorrow
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dennis.t on January 04, 2012, 04:32:38 AM
Ah,the Great Hue-nut wieghs in! Wheres those fabulous vedder steel pics you post up every winter? Not catching yet?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 04, 2012, 07:52:18 AM
Tamahi started to color up around 2:30 so i headed upriver and left Borden at 4:30. The Ranger slide was puking quite badly and my guess would be zero vis for tomorrow

Heavy rain this AM in the Chilliwack Vedder River watershed.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 04, 2012, 08:11:55 AM
I'm gettin my coffee then I'll hop down to take a look... I didn't bring my gear if that give u an idea of what I think it'll look like.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 04, 2012, 08:27:30 AM
There is about 6" of vis, and the river has a but of a green tint.  But it's raining heavy right now.

(http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g307/DMW73/Cars%20and%20Fishing%202012/10c06df9.jpg)

(http://i59.photobucket.com/albums/g307/DMW73/Cars%20and%20Fishing%202012/5d10bc66.jpg)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 04, 2012, 08:39:00 AM
Thanks Dave, I see only one angler in your photo.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silex on January 04, 2012, 09:04:00 AM
Dave - thanks for your report and pics...much appreciated!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 04, 2012, 09:43:46 AM
No problem guys.  I head back to work tomorrow... so I won't be able to get back out for a lil bit... hopefully by sunday it's cleaned up a bit.  Been raining crazy hard out here for about an hr now. ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 04, 2012, 01:05:10 PM
Looking ugly to me when I just checked, hard to believe so many were wetting their lines.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on January 04, 2012, 02:37:59 PM
Folks, when Chris says it looks ugly, it's really bad ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: the carp on January 05, 2012, 09:23:01 AM
river really high this morning and about 6 inches of visibility, time to tie leaders and pray for cold weather, should be stellar fishing when she drops and clears
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 05, 2012, 02:11:47 PM
Went for a walk today along the river and the river has dropped some but still very high. Visibility approaching a foot but the rain continues to fall with some wind.

Found a nice Drennan, a number of DNE's, Clear Drifts and some run of the mill floats
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on January 05, 2012, 02:16:57 PM
Went for a walk today along the river and the river has dropped some but still very high. Visibility approaching a foot but the rain continues to fall with some wind.

Found a nice Drennan, a number of DNE's, Clear Drifts and some run of the mill floats

Gee Chris, it seems that your finding way more floats then you can get rid of. I guess your grand kids will have enough floats. In fact I bet that even their kids will have enough as well.   ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 05, 2012, 02:19:56 PM
Gee Chris, it seems that your finding way more floats then you can get rid of. I guess your grand kids will have enough floats. In fact I bet that even their kids will have enough as well.   ;D ;D
I think I have enough for everyone on this forum too. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: steelie-slayer on January 05, 2012, 03:31:40 PM
I think I have enough for everyone on this forum too. ;D ;D
can i have a drennen for all the ones i've lost  ::)
and freds weighed one awhile ago, so it isnt that bad then but its gettin prety late now.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Nitroholic on January 05, 2012, 04:20:06 PM
Safe to say Peter is the derby winner?  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: the carp on January 05, 2012, 04:31:06 PM
holy crap peter 19.08 nice work
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 05, 2012, 04:56:50 PM
that fish was a HOG, whoaaa nice job man
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: floatfisher on January 05, 2012, 05:20:11 PM
So early in the season for a fish that size, usually the derby winner is caught around mid February.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 05, 2012, 05:25:16 PM
holy crap peter 19.08 nice work
Say what?!?!  lol... is there pics of this fish?  I gotta see it!!  lol
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 05, 2012, 05:27:53 PM
(http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/384377_204984976257475_113421562080484_427334_602724421_n.jpg)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BentRodsGuiding on January 05, 2012, 05:33:45 PM
Vedder TOAD, noiiice!!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 05, 2012, 05:35:45 PM
Yeah I went to FB and it was all over there... Holy crap.  Now that's a big steel.....lol :o
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bigblue on January 05, 2012, 05:37:58 PM
Wow! That is one big fish for early season. :o
Less than a pound shy of big twenty. Congrats!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Fish Assassin on January 05, 2012, 07:16:44 PM
Pretty hard to beat that one.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 05, 2012, 07:23:39 PM
Pretty hard to beat that one.
A 20 pounder will take it, you know how well I can predict things. ;D ;D ;D

 Nice fish Pete.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fishbuster on January 05, 2012, 07:54:10 PM
Top 3 fish last year were in the 17's, so this could easily be the winner, but you never know.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BigFisher on January 05, 2012, 07:55:31 PM
A 20 pounder will take it, you know how well I can predict things. ;D ;D ;D

 Nice fish Pete.

Does that mean I dont have a chance anymore?  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steel_Mo_Head on January 05, 2012, 07:56:13 PM
A 20 pounder will take it, you know how well I can predict things. ;D ;D ;D

 Nice fish Pete.



True story....! ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on January 05, 2012, 08:26:18 PM
What a hog!!! Way to go pete, and thanks rod for posting that great pic.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: opwins on January 05, 2012, 08:35:03 PM
Nice Fish!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 06, 2012, 01:49:50 PM
Water is A1.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Tee on January 06, 2012, 02:32:27 PM
Many thanks, Chris.

Planning to head out this wkdn.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Floater on January 07, 2012, 11:17:53 AM
Anyone have any words on the conditions today and if its worth trying for some chrome tomorrow?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 07, 2012, 11:24:00 AM
I'm curious also. Also wondering about the crowds. Anyone want to split gas tmrw? I'm leaving from west van, email me
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fyrslyer on January 07, 2012, 12:42:56 PM
I'm curious also. Also wondering about the crowds. Anyone want to split gas tmrw? I'm leaving from west van, email me

Crowds? It's the vedder.... People everywhere
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 07, 2012, 12:49:22 PM
Anyone have any words on the conditions today and if its worth trying for some chrome tomorrow?
Condition perfect, light rain now, lost 2 this morning  :'(, going back out shortly. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steel_Mo_Head on January 07, 2012, 03:10:18 PM
Condition perfect, light rain now, lost 2 this morning  :'(, going back out shortly. ;D

I'm stuck in my office today and tomorrow.  You're killin me Chris!! Monday should be good ya think?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 07, 2012, 03:57:06 PM
I'm stuck in my office today and tomorrow.  You're killin me Chris!! Monday should be good ya think?
Depends on rain and freezing level of course, should be OK tomorrow.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: blaydRnr on January 07, 2012, 04:27:50 PM
according to the hydrometric graph water is still running high...has it settled?  ???
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 08, 2012, 09:11:18 AM
Conditions remain good this AM. I had nothing in an hour of fishing time. Saw one taken and retained out of 12 or so anglers in the area I was fishing.

I had the run I lost the 2 yesterday all to myself and the anglers were spread out on the other runs too that made for enjoyable fishing.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steel_Mo_Head on January 08, 2012, 07:09:06 PM
Gonna head out tomorrow.. How is the weather holding out down there Chris?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 08, 2012, 07:14:42 PM
Gonna head out tomorrow.. How is the weather holding out down there Chris?
No rain at the present time, cool too.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 08, 2012, 07:15:42 PM
I'm heading out first light as well.. There hasn't  been much rain at all today..  Grey tho.  Really looking forward to getting out there after playing with my first if the year last tues morning.  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steel_Mo_Head on January 08, 2012, 07:18:15 PM
No rain at the present time, cool too.

Sweet! Thanks Chris! Been Itchin!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 09, 2012, 10:52:12 AM
Rained a bit in the wee hrs last night... but Mmmmm water good this am....lol
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 10, 2012, 12:22:43 AM
any reports from this afternoon Chris? Heading out tmrw AM
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 10, 2012, 06:45:42 AM
any reports from this afternoon Chris? Heading out tmrw AM
Did not get out but water should be fine, no rain onvernight.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on January 10, 2012, 07:31:14 AM
Did not get out but water should be fine, no rain onvernight.


But I bet it is cold out there this morning because of the North East wind from overnight.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 10, 2012, 10:55:45 AM
Yeah it was cold... but river seems perfect!!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 10, 2012, 01:05:50 PM
Like Spring out there, conditions excellent but slow fishing in the Lower, saw no action, heard of one other besides Dave's. Missed a fish of some sort, maybe tomorrow will be better for the majority of us. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 11, 2012, 01:46:59 PM
Water conditions remain excellent but guides icing up this AM. Tried a new area this morning and got pulled down three times, in the same spot, a fish of some sort I am sure but each time I pulled, felt nothing there, maybe a small trout?

Going back out shortly and see if it will give me a 4th chance. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 13, 2012, 01:54:45 PM
Temperature and water levels must be dropping out there, hence the fewer fish being weighed in. I'm heading out Sunday. Good/bad idea?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on January 13, 2012, 02:34:21 PM
Will be out there tomorrow  ;D
Hoping for a great day with cold temps and the possibility of snow. This will make it a great day, a fish on one of my spinners will just be a bonus  ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on January 13, 2012, 10:29:06 PM
Anyone know what the weather is like out there in Chilliwack?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: searun17 on January 13, 2012, 10:31:09 PM
its snowing
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on January 13, 2012, 10:59:30 PM
Maple Ridge too!!!!!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BCfisherman97 on January 13, 2012, 11:18:31 PM
Burnaby as well, looks like a late run of snow is pushing through the system :P
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 13, 2012, 11:19:07 PM
Have fun driving to the river tomorrow morning... ;D

http://images.drivebc.ca/bchighwaycam/pub/html/www/204.html
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Tee on January 13, 2012, 11:36:49 PM
No snow in Vancouver area yet. Just good old rain.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 14, 2012, 02:11:46 AM
looks like my steelhead season is over :(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: tnt on January 14, 2012, 05:52:54 AM
5-6 inches of snow here already and it is slippery....it has rained on top of the snow.....
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: the carp on January 14, 2012, 06:31:49 AM
no plows out, nasty roads be careful if you come this way
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: buckjr on January 14, 2012, 07:41:28 AM
Road Conditions are terrible around Chilliwack, many cars in the ditch on HWY 1 and 7. Not many plows out working it seems.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 14, 2012, 07:46:23 AM
looks like my steelhead season is over :(
The real steelhead season starts when it snows. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: GENERAL-SHERMAN on January 14, 2012, 08:02:48 AM
tried heading out at 7 and the roads were so bad in chilliwack I almost put my truck in the ditch twice :o turned around and headed home. ill try heading out around 12 maybe things will be better then. still snowing in sardis where i live.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 14, 2012, 09:03:17 AM
Just plowed the driveway, 4 inches of the white stuff with rain and snow mixed at the present time.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on January 14, 2012, 03:53:14 PM
Searun and I made out there for first light but man was it ever a white knuckle drive in. Water was perfect.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Kenwee on January 14, 2012, 04:37:51 PM
How's the fishing today? You guys are hard core man! Good luck! Give us a report thanks.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 14, 2012, 05:26:41 PM
Searun and I made out there for first light but man was it ever a white knuckle drive in. Water was perfect.
And?   :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: HOOK on January 14, 2012, 06:53:31 PM
ok i dont know what the hell you guys were seeing. I left Surrey at 630 am and it didnt now at all my entire way to Chilliwack and the main roads were clear except in the 'wack where they were slushy with only tracks to follow but thats easy to drive in  ::)

water is really nice though  ;D

I only saw 1 car in the ditch on hwy 1(east bound) between 200th and Chilliwack as well so im not sure where these cars were  ??? saw 3 in the ditch on my way home however and a spot where one had been pulled out earlier (west bound hwy 1)

I think a few of you were exaggerating so people would stay home. It didnt work !!! there was quite a few guys out there
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 14, 2012, 08:09:40 PM
Chilliwack River's steelhead broodstock capturing program starts on Monday. Here's a brief overview of what it is all about for those who are unfamiliar with the program.

http://www.fishingwithrod.com/articles/fishery_issues/chilliwack_river_steelhead_brood_collection_program.html
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on January 14, 2012, 10:38:55 PM
I think a few of you were exaggerating so people would stay home. It didnt work !!! there was quite a few guys out there

Hey Hook

 Maple Ridge-Mission was sketchy at 5:45 as was the roads from Mission-Abbotsford. The #1 was not too bad but there was more then 1 car in the ditch. Lickman Rd was also not plowed so that was a slow go and yes we did have snow tires on.

As for guys on the river, I dont know were you where fishing but we hardly saw anybody all day which was really nice. Even in the afternoon we went down to some of the more popular places and still nobody around.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 16, 2012, 05:22:33 AM
A bit of snow out here over night, roads will be very slippery.  Supposed to snow more today as well... if you're coming out be careful. :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 16, 2012, 06:45:27 AM
Update... snowing pretty heavy on the Wack right now..... ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BentRodsGuiding on January 16, 2012, 07:18:23 AM
From the Bent Rods weather desk, snowing with a chance of Steelhead.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 16, 2012, 07:40:17 AM
From the Bent Rods weather desk, snowing with a chance of Steelhead.
;)  I think I'll take that chance....... ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 16, 2012, 08:02:34 AM
I think I will shovel the driveway instead, about 4 inches here at the present.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: penn on January 16, 2012, 09:38:27 AM
Lot's of snow forecast for today . And more for for the rest of the week too .
 http://weatheroffice.gc.ca/city/pages/bc-24_metric_e.html
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BigFisher on January 16, 2012, 10:13:01 AM
Drove to langley, only to find out no one else could make it. Mt Lehman was the worse, Chilliwack wasnt as bad. Saw two 4x4 and a semi flipped between 630 and 7. Time to go fishing.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 16, 2012, 05:40:07 PM
Heading out tomorrow without snow tires or four wheel drive. How bad is this idea? I'm sure the lower river roads will be cleared...confirm/deny?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Trout Slayer on January 16, 2012, 05:42:50 PM
Well lets see theres a snowfall warning in effect for the Fraser Valley calling for 10-15 additional cm from what felll on the weeekend and earlier today. With there being dozens and dozens of abandoned vehicles on the freeway in ditches and upside down you can be the judge.....
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 16, 2012, 05:46:31 PM
Well lets see theres a snowfall warning in effect for the Fraser Valley calling for 10-15 additional cm from what felll on the weeekend and earlier today. With there being dozens and dozens of abandoned vehicles on the freeway in ditches and upside down you can be the judge.....

sounds like the river will be quiet tomorrow  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Casey Martin on January 16, 2012, 06:12:42 PM
went out there today from maple ridge , roads wernt that bad, only about 5 or 6 vehicals in the ditch, only place the roads wernt too good was from silverdale to mission bridge. the river was like a ghost town. only saw a handful of other fishermen. so ill probly be going tommorw ...might as well take advantage of the lack of people. if you have 4x4 your fine.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 16, 2012, 08:21:44 PM
went out there today from maple ridge , roads wernt that bad, only about 5 or 6 vehicals in the ditch, only place the roads wernt too good was from silverdale to mission bridge. the river was like a ghost town. only saw a handful of other fishermen. so ill probly be going tommorw ...might as well take advantage of the lack of people. if you have 4x4 your fine.

Dress warmly as you also may have a NE wind to deal with too.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fyrslyer on January 16, 2012, 09:45:13 PM
-7 currently my place in South Chilliwack 500 meters as the bird flies from the vedder
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 16, 2012, 10:16:06 PM
I'm also attributing the fewer fish being weighed in at fred's to the cold and weather...too cold for people to brave the elements. Just means more for me to catch tomorrow :D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Casey Martin on January 16, 2012, 10:19:35 PM
I'm also attributing the fewer fish being weighed in at fred's to the cold and weather...too cold for people to brave the elements. Just means more for me to catch tomorrow :D



be careful where you park if you dont have 4x4 or snow tires especially if you go to the upper river
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 16, 2012, 10:54:35 PM
yeah, thanks man. I think I will probbaly stay away from chilliwack valley road tomorrow as I don't have snow tires nor four wheel drive lol. should be an adventure
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dennyman on January 16, 2012, 11:41:13 PM
For those that don't have winter tires, it will be an adventure tomorrow as there is a snowfall warning from Vancouver right through to the Chilliwack/Hope area.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Casey Martin on January 17, 2012, 02:15:19 AM
yeah, thanks man. I think I will probbaly stay away from chilliwack valley road tomorrow as I don't have snow tires nor four wheel drive lol. should be an adventure


i think they plow it more than any where else due to the active logging. at least yesterday it was buy far the best road around
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: the carp on January 17, 2012, 05:45:26 AM
currently minus 11 wind chill minus 23 and snowfall warning in effect, anyone driving without winter tires is a fool and a danger to others. For a fish, i dont hink so.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 17, 2012, 07:17:48 AM
Not to mention what seems like almost another foot of snow overnight.. I almost froze trying to get the wifes car out.... Can believe she wouldn't let me drive her to work... ???
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Noahs Arc on January 17, 2012, 07:42:27 AM
Sounds like another epic day on the water to me! See ya out there
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 17, 2012, 09:45:22 AM
Sounds like another epic day on the water to me! See ya out there
Its all yours. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: coho killer on January 17, 2012, 02:52:57 PM
Cold morning today, 5+ feet vis, mid-river. Seems like these fish really like the cold or maybe it's the lack of pressure last couple days.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: 1son on January 17, 2012, 04:27:29 PM
Well looks like I'm gonna have to wait patiently til the snow clears up as I don't have winter tires for my car don't wanna risk my well being for a fish rather stay in a warm house good luck to those who are going out BE SAFE PEOPLE ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 17, 2012, 05:13:22 PM
Wasn't that bad. After mission it was pretty rough though on the way out. Roads were fine going home. Made it out there and back without troubles. Fr other drivers...let's hat say some weren't so lucky ;) parking was definitely a challenge but we had a good time nonetheless. Saw 2 other guys on the flow the whole day, pretty nice
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fyrslyer on January 17, 2012, 09:19:38 PM
-13 currently without windchill
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: milo on January 18, 2012, 12:59:13 PM
I like fishing as much as the next guy, but if I have to choose between, on the one hand, freezing my arse off (and hands and feet and face) in well below zero temperatures and, on the other hand, curling up on the couch with a good book in my hands...well, you guessed it - the book gets my allegiance.

Anyone who has nothing better to do than be on the river on a day like this has my heartfelt sympathy.  :-*
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Noahs Arc on January 18, 2012, 05:01:37 PM
Well I saw 3 other trucks all day today, spent most of the day tucked in fishing pocket water out of the wind... No bites
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BentRodsGuiding on January 18, 2012, 10:09:11 PM
Noahs Arc, you are indeed insane. I love Steelhead but this weather were having is way beyond my hardcore threshold.

Even my sheep and LLama know when to get in their shelter and nap out.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: blaydRnr on January 18, 2012, 11:57:59 PM
Noahs Arc, you are indeed insane. I love Steelhead but this weather were having is way beyond my hardcore threshold.

Even my sheep and LLama know when to get in their shelter and nap out.

LOL
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on January 19, 2012, 12:59:36 AM
You guys sound like a bunch of old ladies, besides from some ice on the guides it was a nice day to be out. The best part was no people

yup, tamahi on up was very calm with little to no wind and about 5 people fishing, keep your line off the water and icing up is not too big a deal
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Noahs Arc on January 19, 2012, 05:25:30 PM
It was one of your cerise bent rod jigs I got my buck on this morning   ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: James on January 20, 2012, 12:32:10 PM
http://www.wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/graph/graph_e.html?stn=08MH001 (http://www.wateroffice.ec.gc.ca/graph/graph_e.html?stn=08MH001)

water levels ... something we need to watch in the next few days ... good thing there was little to no precip in the last week .

Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steelhead Fever on January 21, 2012, 07:34:15 AM
Noahs Arc, you are indeed insane. I love Steelhead but this weather were having is way beyond my hardcore threshold.
Even my sheep and LLama know when to get in their shelter and nap out.


HaHaHa ya man thats cold.
I got beat down pretty hard by the rain last month yeah just rain but it wouldnt stop every day more rain lol.
Haven't been out for a while now, wanna go so bad but now rained all night and melting snow ahhhhh. prob grey colour raging water?
Im thinkin Hue-Nut will get some fishes for fish porn to give me hope again lol.
Better weather/days coming everyone! Bad weather gives time to make sure all your leaks and gear is in the up n up and your ready to go in a moments notice.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 21, 2012, 12:19:06 PM
Was going to head out fishing... But then notIced the water graph was being sneaky... I'll go check later, but me thinks it may not be looking good already.  The melt has just gotten started...
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: floatfisher on January 21, 2012, 12:20:56 PM
I think it's going be looking like chocolate milk, but look forward to an actual vis report.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Nicole on January 21, 2012, 12:43:35 PM
apparently it's not looking great - 6 inches visibility currently and dropping.

Cheers,
Nicole
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BentRodsGuiding on January 21, 2012, 02:37:02 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aU2fo4BcAgA
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 21, 2012, 02:41:43 PM
Was told by a reliable member of this forum it is 6 inches as some clay fell in.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Sage2106 on January 21, 2012, 04:08:52 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aU2fo4BcAgA
Hey Rod is that what you have been doin the last couple days? Lol
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: oni_kage on January 21, 2012, 05:50:59 PM
http://www.theweathernetwork.com/alerts/wwcabc0018/cabc0308/weather?ref=warnings_citypage (http://www.theweathernetwork.com/alerts/wwcabc0018/cabc0308/weather?ref=warnings_citypage)

Vancouver wind warnings tomorrow. Do you think it will affect Chilliwack?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Trout Slayer on January 21, 2012, 05:57:00 PM
Why would you be concerned about the wind when the river is unfishable??? :o
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: oni_kage on January 21, 2012, 06:05:06 PM
I caught my first two steelhead when there was virtually no visibility hehe.
Dumb luck...
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: milo on January 21, 2012, 06:22:50 PM
I caught my first two steelhead when there was virtually no visibility hehe.
Dumb luck...


I'll keep my mouth shut, but you all know what I am thinking...hush hush Milo.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: 4TheKids on January 21, 2012, 06:30:17 PM
Just got back; yep, 6 in of visibility; beautiful for fishing but no fish caught. The wind picked up around 4:00 so no more hero casts.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: steelie-slayer on January 21, 2012, 07:10:55 PM
i went out today, lost two  :( started at lickman around 9:30 and didn't stay long as there was only about 1 foot vis and it was decreasing, but i did have a quick hook up. after that headed up to Tamihai, which wasn't to much better,fished some pockets and edges but nothin so at 12 we went to thurston meadows and fished all the way up to the old ranger run. lost a nice one around Borden creek, also had a couple good hits. when we got back to the truck i threw a couple casts into a side channel and got a nice dolly. vis was about 2-3 ft at thurston and 3-4 at the ranger run. it started to clear more as the day went on tho, but by tommrow i figure she'll be blown.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: oni_kage on January 21, 2012, 09:28:29 PM
I'll keep my mouth shut, but you all know what I am thinking...hush hush Milo.

I wasn't flossing if that is what you are suggesting...   ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BCfisherman97 on January 21, 2012, 11:53:51 PM
Would it be worth it tomorrow?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 22, 2012, 11:28:19 AM
River condition appears to be good today from what I've heard. Two fish have been weighed in at Fred's so far. Should be out fishing instead of staying on the forum like me. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 22, 2012, 12:26:34 PM
River condition appears to be good today from what I've heard. Two fish have been weighed in at Fred's so far. Should be out fishing instead of staying on the forum like me. ;D
Just had a look and conditions good at present, 4 degrees, just starting to rain, some wind, quite a few angleres working around the Vedder Bridge. Over coffee I was told some fish being hooked.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Floater on January 22, 2012, 01:34:25 PM
ARGH! i stayed home because people said there was only 6 inches of vis and snow melt was on!  :-\
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 22, 2012, 03:02:23 PM
ARGH! i stayed home because people said there was only 6 inches of vis and snow melt was on!  :-\
That was yesterday. Remember things can change quickly under the conditions we have had the last few days especially with the clay slides which at least twice this year hace fallen into the river.
Most members post conditions the best they can at the time of their report, some may post info to try and keep others from coming out. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: typhoon on January 22, 2012, 03:40:34 PM
Thanks for the updates, Chris.
Mucho appreciato!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 22, 2012, 03:53:21 PM
Thanks for the updates, Chris.
Mucho appreciato!

you are welcome, heavy rain now. ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 22, 2012, 04:40:42 PM
ARGH! i stayed home because people said there was only 6 inches of vis and snow melt was on!  :-\

Never trust the internet, it doesn't make you catch more fish. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Kenwee on January 22, 2012, 05:21:25 PM
Hi Chris,

do you think he lower river will be fishable tomorrow? Thanks
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: milo on January 22, 2012, 05:51:53 PM
Hi Chris,
do you think he lower river will be fishable tomorrow? Thanks

C'mon people,
Stop putting so much pressure on Chris. Nobody, and I mean NOBODY can predict what a river will be like the next day.

What if he tells you it should be fishable, and then you drive all the way out only to find it blown.
What then? Are you going to sue Chris for the gas money and the distress and emotional pain that his wrong prediction caused you?

Your best course of action (as stated a thousand times before) is to take a look at the hydrometric data chart for the Vedder river.
Look especially at the levels of Slesse Creek above the crossing and  the level of the Vedder above Slesse Creek. Those two combined will give you an idea of what is going on.
Then check the weather forecast and look at the precipitation that is expected within the next 24 hours. Anything under 15 won't affect the river. Between 15-30 will cause the river to rise. Levels above 30mm will impact fishing considerably.

Another thing: one person's 'fishable' is another person's' blown out'.
It appears there are people here who can catch steelhead 'LEGITIMATELY' in zero visibility.
I can't.

Good luck.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Sage2106 on January 22, 2012, 06:13:23 PM
Well said Milo!!!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on January 22, 2012, 06:20:24 PM
well put milo, using the hydrometer reading and weather forcast should give you a pretty good idea what's going on out there.
saved me from wasting gas and white nuckling it last week!
that being said, we are all getting itchy trigger fingers!!
Thank's to chris and all those that are kind enough to report first hand what's going on out there.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: James on January 22, 2012, 06:47:37 PM
we need to start a fundraiser to help fund a web cam mounted to the underside of the crossing bridge !

there are plenty of "bird cams" and lake cams up in interior ... why not a vedder river cam ?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Kenwee on January 22, 2012, 07:42:43 PM
Thank you Milo for the information. Being a new at fishing, I am in a quandary as to how to determine water conditions, your info is most helpful. Chris, thank you for your reports , they are most helpful.Again all advice and information provided are much appreciated. Many thanks.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BigFisher on January 22, 2012, 07:46:36 PM
There nothing entertaining about watching chris going around picking up beer cans...
This Idea of a camera was already tried, and because of lack of funding failed. It was also vandalized. One fish caught on camera and the crossing bridge would be the new KWB.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 22, 2012, 07:48:25 PM
There nothing entertaining about watching chris going around picking up beer cans...
This Idea of a camera was already tried, and because of lack of funding failed. It was also vandalized. One fish caught on camera and the crossing bridge would be the new KWB.
Someone has to pick up the garbage. ;D  :-X
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Fish Assassin on January 22, 2012, 07:53:05 PM
Whatever happened to the camera that was on the river couple of years back ?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Danube Boy on January 22, 2012, 07:58:16 PM
A camera at a given point at the river is going to determine whether you'll go fishing or spend a day at home on the couch? Just go fishing for God's sake! When you get there and see what the river looks like (you can get a real good idea from hydro readings + air temp. and precipitation) make your choice, there is almost always a part of the river you can fish. And if it's trully "unfishable", drive to a different system. Your day won't be a waste. 
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steel_Mo_Head on January 22, 2012, 08:40:19 PM
Wow, how's the weather like in the wack? Got a free day to head out tomorrow. !
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Casey Martin on January 22, 2012, 09:00:25 PM
A camera at a given point at the river is going to determine whether you'll go fishing or spend a day at home on the couch? Just go fishing for God's sake! When you get there and see what the river looks like (you can get a real good idea from hydro readings + air temp. and precipitation) make your choice, there is almost always a part of the river you can fish. And if it's trully "unfishable", drive to a different system. Your day won't be a waste.  

some poeple unfortunaly only get a few days a year to go steelheading because of kids or work etc. dont you think if your going to get a baby sitter or skip out on work to go fishing your going to want to do it on peak condtions??? i know a few people i fish with that will go for weeks till they get the really good condtions they want then they make the wife stay home from work to watch the kids or gets a baby sitter and go's. its not always couch or fishing...... i think the camera is a awsome idea. and most people really appreciate all the condition updates ,thanks to all that contribute.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 22, 2012, 09:06:50 PM
Wow, how's the weather like in the wack? Got a free day to head out tomorrow. !
Has been raining some since around 1. Fairly cool so the river "may" hold.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steel_Mo_Head on January 22, 2012, 11:12:11 PM
Has been raining some since around 1. Fairly cool so the river "may" hold.

You're tha man Chris.  Always coming through.  A first hatchery will get slayed tomorrow :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 23, 2012, 12:13:24 AM
Chris' advice and reports are always much appreciated, especially when commuting 1.5 hours away!

You guys can always call freds and get a water report... they love telling you to come out and fish  :D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 23, 2012, 01:35:33 PM
River was good at about 10 when I went down to have a look... about 2-3 feet... started coloring up to about 18" where I was around 11 or so.... not much of any rain yet. :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 23, 2012, 04:59:28 PM
It was like spring out there today with visibility in the 2 foot range  as well very mild this afternoon. I tried 3 different areas from 10:30 until 3.

Things looked so good I could not believe my float did not go down, maybe the brood capture tube I was packing had something to do with it.  ;D Heard of one fish taken, by the Crossing. The third area I fished had very few people out there but one of them was just putting a fish to sleep at "The Early Run" asI just arrived there. Another angler I know rolled one in a run I had fished about 15 minutes previous. :o
Should have put this report in the fishing report but thought I would give those that can not access it a treat tonight. ;D

Maybe they will take out a membership in the near future so they can read all the great reports there. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 24, 2012, 06:59:10 AM
Raining a bit now.  Don't think it will effect the river much yet... but they are calling for lots of rain later.  I'll report on flow when I get back from the day fishing. :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 24, 2012, 07:01:51 AM
Have a good day again Dave. ;D Heading out  shortly and hope to get one for the tube before the river goes out, should be OK for a bit as did not rain overnight.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 24, 2012, 07:04:32 AM
Have a good day again Dave. ;D Heading out  shortly and hope to get one for the tube before the river goes out, should be OK for a bit as did not rain overnight.
I have only caught a couple wilds this year... but where about you going to be?  Never know... lol :D

Nevermind on here...lol Facebook me if you want to know where I'll be or if you want to tell me where ur gonna be...haha
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 24, 2012, 10:57:43 AM
(http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/407837_216224255133547_113421562080484_454582_475362956_n.jpg)

;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: typhoon on January 24, 2012, 10:59:55 AM
That's a beaut! Well done Chris.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: alwaysfishn on January 24, 2012, 11:36:28 AM
Congrats Chris!  Did you gently release that one?   ;D  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Casey Martin on January 24, 2012, 12:48:02 PM
so i guess the river turned out to be fishable today ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 24, 2012, 12:58:59 PM
so i guess the river turned out to be fishable today ;)
Yes it was very nice. ;D however we are getting fairly heavy rain now, not sure how long it may hold.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 24, 2012, 01:28:24 PM
Water still awesome right now... I'm sittin here looking at it.  I've had a mostly good, slightly bad morning do far. One wild buck to hand, then further up river lost a beauty big hatch doe at the end of the fight right in front of me.   :'(   Lol
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 24, 2012, 01:54:36 PM
Water still awesome right now... I'm sittin here looking at it.  I've had a mostly good, slightly bad morning do far. One wild buck to hand, then further up river lost a beauty big hatch doe at the end of the fight right in front of me.   :'(   Lol
I guess I should have been there with the tube as I understand only 2 tubed, coming into today. Glad the water is holding, the weather is very changeable today as the rain has stopped now and I notice the snow level is low on the hills which will hold some of the water back. No wind yet.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fishermanphil on January 24, 2012, 02:01:28 PM
?????If your r packing a tube for the hatchery program and u get wild--can u still continue to fish and vice vera.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 24, 2012, 02:09:46 PM
?????If your r packing a tube for the hatchery program and u get wild--can u still continue to fish and vice vera.
No once a tuber kills a fish he must stop fishing the river you are on but if you tube a wild you can continue to fish.

Thanks for the question.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 24, 2012, 02:29:38 PM
That would have been great Chris considering i got it out of ur spot... Lol It's pouring now, and after losing that big hatch doe at my feet, I thought my day was done... But I went back and worked thru again, and I must have had the lucky stick today.  Got my hatch in the pouring rain.  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on January 24, 2012, 06:44:42 PM
nice fish chris, and i guess a picture is worth a thousand words!!!
Just kidding! please update your journal anytime ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 24, 2012, 07:02:16 PM
nice fish chris, and i guess a picture is worth a thousand words!!!
Just kidding! please update your journal anytime ;D
Thanks, working on it, just finished watching the Leafs win again.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on January 24, 2012, 08:00:55 PM
river was 0"-6" for vis at 4:30 Tamahi down
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 24, 2012, 08:13:40 PM
river was 0"-6" for vis at 4:30 Tamahi down
A day off tomorrow?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fyrslyer on January 24, 2012, 09:31:32 PM
11 degrees now with a very strong southwest wind
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Matt on January 24, 2012, 11:46:12 PM
I strongly encourage anyone following this thread in anticipation of heading out on the weekend to consider giving back in the form of attending the Steelhead Society AGM.  I don't fish the Vedder much, but a quick glance at the graph and the forecast suggests its going to be in rough shape for Saturday.  Why not attend the meeting SSBC AGM and learn how you can give back, as an angler who uses this incredible resource we have in BC?  This is a great opportunity to learn about issues that affect wild steelhead in BC.  The Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline, if approved, directly jeopardizes the largest population of wild steelhead in BC.  The Thompson River was opened to angling despite relatively low returns, learn why.

(http://i1194.photobucket.com/albums/aa378/chromemykiss/PosterIMAGESML.jpg?t=1326428362)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 25, 2012, 11:32:24 AM
Surprised to see the water with a bit of a green color this AM, I would say visibility a bit over a foot  15 minutes ago.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on January 25, 2012, 04:54:23 PM
(http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/steelieman/photo.jpg)

I did not go fishing but a friend of mine took a picture of what Bergman looked like today. Looks fishable to me.

Not sure what the clarity of the water was like from the picture.

Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 25, 2012, 05:55:31 PM
(http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/steelieman/photo.jpg)

I did not go fishing but a friend of mine took a picture of what Bergman looked like today. Looks fishable to me.

Not sure what the clarity of the water was like from the picture.


It was fine when I went out around 3ish but when I left at dark it had got nasty looking. I guess some of the heavy showers in the watershed off and on during the day did the damage or some clay fell in.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 27, 2012, 09:15:18 AM
Condition better than yesterday, a few snow showers now.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Tee on January 27, 2012, 08:10:39 PM
Many thanks for the update, Christ.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Trout Slayer on January 27, 2012, 08:30:25 PM
Was out at last light Thompson Park area and visibility turned to poop, I suspect large chunks of clay fell in because visibility was good before this happened and it happened like the switch of a light. Tough to say if its worth heading out in the am. :-X
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on January 27, 2012, 08:30:49 PM
Water was good but no fish for me.............
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 29, 2012, 07:37:31 AM
River barely has 6" vis this morning.  But since I'm here I'll try anyways. Still raining out here to.  :(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 29, 2012, 08:13:05 AM
River barely has 6" vis this morning.  But since I'm here I'll try anyways. Still raining out here to.  :(
Thanks Dave, yes it rained hard overnight so does not surprise me.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: brysonk on January 29, 2012, 01:57:45 PM
Rivers blown, I'm going home.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: norton on January 29, 2012, 04:12:07 PM
yea, lower vedder is pretty well blown out, might wanna try upper river, above clay slides.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: brysonk on January 29, 2012, 05:26:42 PM
6" vis above the slides when I left and still raining hard.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: the carp on January 30, 2012, 08:15:34 AM
river looks like a double double
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 30, 2012, 09:13:12 AM
river looks like a double double
I think I will go and have one then. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bigblue on January 30, 2012, 11:41:21 AM
I think I will go and have one then. ;D

Yeap... Good idea. :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 30, 2012, 01:01:04 PM
Water starting to look better, may give it a try. :-\

Found 2 Drennans and 5 DNE floats while out taking a look. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bigblue on January 30, 2012, 03:13:33 PM
Water starting to look better, may give it a try. :-\

Found 2 Drennans and 5 DNE floats while out taking a look. ;D

Pls keep us posted. Thanks.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 30, 2012, 05:11:29 PM
Water was good enough to produce some fish this afternoon... started getting some activity after 3pm.   ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on January 30, 2012, 06:27:07 PM
Water was good enough to produce some fish this afternoon... started getting some activity after 3pm.   ;)
Yes you are correct but I lost another steelhead as the fish caught me by surprise and I did not set the hook firmly enough. ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 30, 2012, 06:31:24 PM
I only got one touch this afternoon as well...  Tomorrow is another day Chris!!  You'll slay em tomorrow if most of the rain holds off. ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 31, 2012, 05:51:42 AM
Rain woke me up at about 4:30 this morning... doesn't seem like it has been hard since.  Still 5 or so degrees out here to. :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on January 31, 2012, 11:29:31 AM
Rain woke me up at about 4:30 this morning... doesn't seem like it has been hard since.  Still 5 or so degrees out here to. :)

Bring home the bacon!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on January 31, 2012, 12:36:52 PM
Rain woke me up at about 4:30 this morning... doesn't seem like it has been hard since.  Still 5 or so degrees out here to. :)

Judging by the photos I've seen so far, it looks like someone is having an exceptionally good day on the river. :o ::) :P ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on January 31, 2012, 03:56:39 PM
Callin it a day, I'm tired. River looked great all day cept for one short clay up spell this morning for about an hr.  There were a couple fish to be had today.  Maybe I'll post a report later.  ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on February 01, 2012, 06:34:26 AM
I can't go look at the river this morning being that I'm at work. But it was raining when I went to bed and it's been raining pretty good since I got up... So maybe Chris will be able to give an update.  :-\
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on February 01, 2012, 11:30:16 AM
I can't go look at the river this morning being that I'm at work. But it was raining when I went to bed and it's been raining pretty good since I got up... So maybe Chris will be able to give an update.  :-\

You suck Dave. :P I ended up enjoying a nice walk along the river this morning because of your report, ended up experiencing retirement life with Chris for two hours at MacDonalds. Water looks like green tea mixed with soy milk. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on February 01, 2012, 11:32:50 AM
You suck Dave. :P I ended up enjoying a nice walk along the river this morning because of your report, ended up experiencing retirement life with Chris for two hours at MacDonalds. Water looks like green tea mixed with soy milk. ;D
Lol...That sucks... no vis at all?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on February 01, 2012, 11:39:22 AM
6 inches maybe... Perfect sockeye condition. ;D

It's probably starting to clear up now if it remains dry for the rest of today.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on February 01, 2012, 11:40:37 AM
It's bright over here in Rosedale... what's the level on the graph? 
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on February 01, 2012, 11:42:45 AM
Level is just fine, rose an inch since last night.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on February 01, 2012, 02:25:07 PM
Soooo.... did you stay long enough for it to clear and get some fish Rodney?!?!?!  :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 02, 2012, 07:53:02 PM
Water conditions were good today, they must have been as I even caught one, be it fairly small. I guess a small one is better than none. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: joska on February 02, 2012, 08:00:40 PM
thanks for the updates, spending the whole weekend out in the wack in search of steel.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on February 04, 2012, 08:41:07 AM
Just got a report from the river. The river is in really good shape with 2-3 feet of vis with a slight wind. The river is crawling with fishermen so if your are planning to head out I would wait till about 10-11 and let the fishermen that are out there head in for breakfast. The fishing has been good as the person that called me has lost 2 already lol  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 04, 2012, 09:25:19 AM
Just got a report from the river. The river is in really good shape with 2-3 feet of vis with a slight wind. The river is crawling with fishermen so if your are planning to head out I would wait till about 10-11 and let the fishermen that are out there head in for breakfast. The fishing has been good as the person that called me has lost 2 already lol  ;D
Yes its like an ant hilll out there, missed a fish 5 times before I got it and went home of course. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on February 04, 2012, 10:43:40 AM
Yes its like an ant Hill out there, missed a fish 5 times before I got it and went home of course. ;D ;D

I wish I was one of those ants out there, but my darn back is just getting in the way. It sucks when a permanent injury gets in the way of the things one loves to do  :'(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 04, 2012, 12:16:38 PM
Awesome day of fishing. Hooked 3 and landed 3. Will report later.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: leapin' tyee on February 05, 2012, 06:51:03 PM
Went today, river is in mint condition.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on February 06, 2012, 11:21:37 AM
Water looks good.  But way to sunny and windy today out there for my liking... I have chores to do that I have been putting off... So I'll do those and hope for at least no wind tomorrow! :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: typhoon on February 06, 2012, 11:26:41 AM
Water looks good.  But way to sunny and windy today out there for my liking... I have chores to do that I have been putting off... So I'll do those and hope for at least no wind tomorrow! :)
Wind died down yesterday afternoon and it was quite pleasant after 3pm. LOTS of fish caught yesterday.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 07, 2012, 12:33:30 PM
Mild out there but the wind made it a little tough getting a good drift on every cast but I was able to hook into 3 with the first and third ending up in the brood capture tube, 2 hens, 8 to 9 pounds for one and 11 to 12 the other, nice bright fish and both put up a good tussle before I tucked them in the holding tubes. I was glad I was packing 2 tubes.

Packed it in once the sun hit the water, besides was tired from all the activity. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: leapin' tyee on February 07, 2012, 12:47:43 PM
Thanks Chris. what is the river water condition?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: rhino on February 07, 2012, 12:48:49 PM
Mild out there but the wind made it a little tough getting a good drift on every cast but I was able to hook into 3 with the first and third ending up in the brood capture tube, 2 hens, 8 to 9 pounds for one and 11 to 12 the other, nice bright fish and both put up a good tussle before I tucked them in the holding tubes. I was glad I was packing 2 tubes.

Packed it in once the sun hit the water, besides was tired from all the activity. ;D
NICE WORK CHRIS! Thank you for all the work you do for the fishery!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 07, 2012, 01:08:46 PM
Thanks Chris. what is the river water condition?
Very nice, better get out there before the rain comes again. ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: leapin' tyee on February 07, 2012, 01:59:35 PM
Very nice, better get out there before the rain comes again. ::)

Thanks again, i wish i can be like you retired and live by the river. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jewelz on February 07, 2012, 09:37:58 PM
Was out there today, what a beautiful sight being out there when the weather nice. No luck fishing tho, but my dad did hook one but lost it. Also met a nice guy out there that showed me some tips about how to read water, I told him i was a total newb and he was nice about it. All around great day on the water. Hopefully back out there next week if the weather permits!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 08, 2012, 01:06:19 PM
Light rain today, water conditions still good, fishing not as good for me today, none for the tube but one 6 -7 pound hatchery doe released and missed 2 others.

Maybe will go out at last light. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: DRP79 on February 08, 2012, 05:25:25 PM
Looked nice out there again today. First time getting out 2 days in a row being that I took the week off work to try and catch my 1st steely but no dice. Came home skunked again for what has to be about 15 times in a row counting salmon season. Oh well, it will happen sooner or later, at least thats what I keep telling myself, lol. There are worse ways to kill a day.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition upd
Post by: rhino on February 08, 2012, 06:26:41 PM
Nice seeing you out there bud. Keep at it.it will come.
Conditions were great when I left today at 130pm.slightly starting to colour a bit. My buddy got a nice wild in the upper river and there happened to be a tuber near by and we got it in for the brood stock.he was a good 12lbs.I did my usual hook up a loss of my 4 th fish this year and that's that! :P ;D :'( :D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 08, 2012, 08:06:55 PM
Some rain this afternoon, water was holding at dark. Fished for a little over an hour after I took some pictures of garbage in three different spots for the City of Chilliwack who will pick it up. Two sites were a large dump of shingles on the way to the Hydro Bridge. What type of person would dump shingles along our beautiful Vedder River? :'(

In my travels taking the pictures I found 3 nice drennans, sure must be a lot of people using and losing them as has been a banner year in finding them.  ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: firstlight on February 08, 2012, 08:26:36 PM
Comming soon to a roadside stand near you.

Chris Gadsen Custom Canuck Floats. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 08, 2012, 08:30:22 PM
Comming soon to a roadside stand near you.

Chris Gadsen Custom Canuck Floats. ;D
Has nice ring to it but no thanks. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: silver ghost on February 08, 2012, 09:27:28 PM
Some rain this afternoon, water was holding at dark. Fished for a little over an hour after I took some pictures of garbage in three different spots for the City of Chilliwack who will pick it up. Two sites were a large dump of shingles on the way to the Hydro Bridge. What type of person would dump shingles along our beautiful Vedder River? :'(

In my travels taking the pictures I found 3 nice drennans, sure must be a lot of people using and losing them as has been a banner year in finding them.  ;D ;D

I know exactly which piles you are talking about! those have been there for quite some time now! there was also a fire pit type deal near that beach before the bridge, bags of garbage everywhere but maybe that has since been removed. I would have taken them with me but I had my hands full already and was walking all the way to the crossing.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 09, 2012, 01:55:16 PM
Water condition remain good but my landing not so good today, 2 lost. ???
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 10, 2012, 12:24:14 PM
Sorry no report on river today as re injured my bad knee today, have to watch those stairs. ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: searun17 on February 10, 2012, 04:31:57 PM
river conditions were A1 today
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on February 10, 2012, 07:24:03 PM
The discussion on Lower Mainland hatchery steelhead fisheries and related issues has been moved:

http://www.fishingwithrod.com/yabbse/index.php?topic=29407.0

Please continue the discussion there and return to posting river condition reports in this thread. Thank you.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Carich980 on February 11, 2012, 10:48:20 PM
Anyone know what the water conditions are like?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: crazypop on February 11, 2012, 10:50:22 PM
I was there yesterday and they looked good. Didn't rain too much so probably ok to go...
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: milo on February 11, 2012, 11:07:06 PM
Anyone know what the water conditions are like?

By the end of the day the river started coming up and colouring up a bit, but nothing substantial.
As long as the rain stays away, it should be good to go tomorrow.

Was a great day on the river...a steelhead virgin cherry was popped today, BTW...hopefully he'll post about it. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Carich980 on February 11, 2012, 11:31:22 PM
Awesome good to hear maybe I can pop mine tomorrow.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: steelie-slayer on February 12, 2012, 06:50:53 PM
rivers great, camped at thurston this weekend and got 5 wilds and seen a few more taken.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on February 14, 2012, 06:36:01 AM
River should be great this morning.  Looks like it may be overcast out... which is good.  Didn't get a sniff yesterday afternoon till the shade hit the water.   :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jewelz on February 17, 2012, 02:00:50 PM
Update anyone? Wanna go out there this weekend...
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steely on February 17, 2012, 02:26:18 PM
Little low with about 3-4 feet of visibility. Really slow out there today, tied into a nice one in the morning but really quiet other then that. Heading back out now ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 17, 2012, 03:55:42 PM
Update anyone? Wanna go out there this weekend...
Heavy rain just started here on the banks of the Vedder.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 17, 2012, 07:58:43 PM
Very heavy rain now, river will most likley be in tough shape tomorrow if it continues to pour.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 17, 2012, 09:46:00 PM
Now the rain has stopped, conditions for tomorrow. :-\
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: dlo on February 17, 2012, 11:00:59 PM
What sort of shape will it be tomorrow???
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: tnt on February 18, 2012, 06:09:42 AM
it will be mud..
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: firebird on February 18, 2012, 06:13:01 AM
Maybe, but the freezing level has been pretty low so might not be too bad.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 18, 2012, 08:19:12 AM
Not raining this AM.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 18, 2012, 01:41:09 PM
Water looks really awesome but no love for me....
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 18, 2012, 03:22:17 PM
Heavy rain and water is starting to show some colour when I looked a few minutes ago.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on February 18, 2012, 04:22:45 PM
Heavy rain and water is starting to show some colour when I looked a few minutes ago.
He means Canuck green ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BigFisher on February 18, 2012, 05:05:21 PM
Got ugly, I dont like ugly.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: HOOK on February 19, 2012, 08:35:13 AM
we were fishing the backside of Allison in th afternoon yesterday when it started to rain, left about 30mins after the rain started because i had a bday a party to get to. Both pipes coming off the clay bank were puking clay which is what coloured the water up very fast. water was crystal clear above the pipes and about a foot or less below them. Thank god we fished down lower while it was raining because clarity was pretty good
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: 1son on February 19, 2012, 09:19:33 AM
rain is good bring it on  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 19, 2012, 12:31:41 PM
rain is good bring it on  ;D
Conditions were good when I looked at it this morning. I have been off the river for 10 days now because of a knee injury but this coming week I will be back out there, watch out fish. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dennis.t on February 19, 2012, 04:34:28 PM
Great conditions! Medium flow with that steelhead green color! ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Steelhead Fever on February 20, 2012, 12:10:01 AM
The river is in good shape definatley fishable has a good flow to it with that steelhead green flow.
Was out saturday in the rain cloud sun, it rained cats n dogs the night before so I almost called the trip off, sure glad I didn't as I hooked into my first steelie this season a nice chrome thing came up for a look at me didn't seem happy about me jerking it up stream, snapped my line:( arrgghhh?
I forgot when you get the fish closer to shore they flip out n pull harder must have had my palm too tight on the cp which i'm still new at thought I was pretty good with it.
Just a reminder if you have a bad spot in your main line like a kink or just a lil flick you notice as you fire your line out, thats a bad\weak spot and when you do get a steel it will prob snap there so dont be lazy like me pull the line out a bit and do a re tie.
Also dont hold your palm super tight on the cp those fish r crazy strong, tink tink tink SNAP! lol  If you see a 25gram float going up stream? yeah thats her she took everything and is wearing a indian blade for the dudes.
Good luck everyone!
Happy fishing they are definatley in there lol.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on February 21, 2012, 07:50:46 AM
Been raining here most of the night, river graph hasn't really moved much yet.  I'm going to head out there pretty quick.  If you don't hear from me in 30 mins it's means I'm catching either fish or a cold.  Or just that the river is in fishable shape!! Lol
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: joy-of-fishing on February 21, 2012, 03:24:24 PM
Any update of how the river is? Clarity? im itchin to go tomorrow
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 21, 2012, 07:58:51 PM
Well, looks like the river must be in fishable conditions!!!!!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 21, 2012, 08:37:31 PM
Well, looks like the river must be in fishable conditions!!!!!

Toss up.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 21, 2012, 09:08:37 PM
I like to know too...thinking of going tomorrow morning.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on February 21, 2012, 09:22:19 PM
The water clarity is dark right now at 9pm, and will remain so until 7am... ;D I doubt those who fished today can tell you how it will be tomorrow. Judging by the amount of rain coming down right now and the hydrograph, I say it'll be dirty tomorrow morning but I have been wrong more often than not. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: GENERAL-SHERMAN on February 22, 2012, 08:31:33 AM
checked last night at 530 ish at lickman. the river looked to have 4 inches or so...  and it rained hard for a while after that as well as on and off all night!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 22, 2012, 10:28:40 AM
 About 8 inches now, surprised to see so may out there.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: milo on February 22, 2012, 11:23:10 AM
About 8 inches now, surprised to see so many out there.

Meatheads never rest.   ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on February 22, 2012, 04:32:35 PM
About 8 inches now, surprised to see so may out there.
Mayhaps something to do with your last fishing report ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 22, 2012, 07:15:28 PM
So I took the chance and decided to go this morning. I called Fred's and the guy said that he has not seen the river but he thought it should be fishable.

Got down to the lower river and it was like Timmy's double double.


(http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/steelieman/IMAG0181.jpg)

(http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/steelieman/IMAG0180.jpg)

I spoke to a few guys and they had just came down from the top with the same conditions.

Fished for 30 minutes and decided to leave. Somehow I ended up in the USA, Lynden. I have never been there so grabbed some milk, eggs, butter and cheese and yes, got gas too!!!

(http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/steelieman/IMAG0187.jpg)

Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: steelie-slayer on February 22, 2012, 07:45:36 PM
what do you guys figure itll look like tommrow
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: milo on February 22, 2012, 07:55:58 PM
what do you guys figure itll look like tommrow

Unfishable. Stay home.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 22, 2012, 08:05:29 PM
If it stops raining now, I think Friday might be ok...
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on February 22, 2012, 08:23:25 PM
If it stops raining now, I think Friday might be ok...


Next time down hit Dave's Sporting Goods, great shop with a very good selection of gear
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Stratocaster on February 22, 2012, 08:39:38 PM
Next time down hit Dave's Sporting Goods, great shop with a very good selection of gear

Yep, should have picked up some gammies and seaguar flourocarbon.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 22, 2012, 09:18:05 PM
Is that in Lynden?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on February 22, 2012, 10:09:47 PM
ya man, great shop with a massive amount of the "classic" northwest steelhead gear
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on February 23, 2012, 09:57:42 PM
River condition was excellent today, visibility was at around 2ft. It should remain this way tomorrow.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Carich980 on February 24, 2012, 10:40:14 AM
Anyone go out today I was planning on heading to the river around noon, but its wet snow/raining here fairly constant in Abby. If it stops I'll probably head out.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: frozensalmon on February 24, 2012, 12:46:52 PM
snow really hard today in metro vancouver area

I guess it's worse in the vedder river area
anyone confirm?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 24, 2012, 03:22:24 PM
snow really hard today in metro vancouver area

I guess it's worse in the vedder river area
anyone confirm?
What a miserable day out there cold, wet snow and then rain. Steelheaders like me must be crazy to be out there on a day like today. ??? ::) ;D

Did get warmed up some following a steelhead down stream for a bit. Broke the 2 fish losing streak beaching a 10 to 11 pound wild buck after a good tussle. River was holding when I left, may go out for the evening flight. ???
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 24, 2012, 05:00:06 PM
(http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/steelieman/IMAG0188.jpg)

Totally blown out!!!!!!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 24, 2012, 05:16:19 PM
The rain and wet snow has now taken it toll, visibility 1 foot at 5PM.

Still raining so will let you decide what it will be like in the morning, might be worth driving here to get gas at $1.27 litre. ???
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: frozensalmon on February 24, 2012, 05:17:59 PM
$1.41 burnaby  >:(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 24, 2012, 05:23:41 PM
$1.41 burnaby  >:(
Wow an expense drive to fish the Vedder now from the Lower Manland.  ::)The thing is many will drive here tomorrow to most likely find it blown. I guess they don't read FWR. ;D ;D ;D I guess they could then go to Cookies Grill for breakfast. :D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: WEEFISH on February 24, 2012, 08:50:07 PM
Thanks for the gas updates Chris....still not worth my $$ maybe sunday ~ monday  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Fish Assassin on February 24, 2012, 09:18:04 PM
Wow an expense drive to fish the Vedder now from the Lower Manland.  ::)The thing is many will drive here tomorrow to most likely find it blown. I guess they don't read FWR. ;D ;D ;D I guess they could then go to Cookies Grill for breakfast. :D

Can I stay at your palatial retreat next time I go the Vedder ? Promise not to harrass you about the Laughs. I'll throw in a Timmie Double Double
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: James on February 24, 2012, 09:36:17 PM
well i am out there for a casting clinic , may as well fish too  .

I try and remember to post a update in the early AM.

Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 25, 2012, 05:28:25 AM
Donot think it rained much overnight but is light rain now with some wind. River up a inch or two since yesterday. A tough call for the clarity at first light.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: tnt on February 25, 2012, 07:29:29 AM
It's getting really colored right now at the crossing 
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 25, 2012, 09:23:10 AM
Update for 9:15am, light rain, windy, visibility at present 1 to 1.5 feet, few fishers.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: searun17 on February 25, 2012, 09:30:59 AM
Chris thanks for the dependable  updates they are appreciated.saves me the drive.i think i will hit a different. river today.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 25, 2012, 09:37:19 AM
Chris thanks for the dependable  updates they are appreciated.saves me the drive.i think i will hit a different. river today.
You are more than welcome. Talked to one angler who said it was improving from first light but with the conditions we are experiencing today it could change one way or the other.

The one plus is it is fairly cool. I will give areport later in the day. I see they cancelled the spey clinic today at Cultus, I would think because of the wind.

Good luck on your other flow.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 25, 2012, 11:41:14 AM
The wind was the killer today. When we got there, the water was really murky but as we fished, I noticed the colour getting better and better. When we left at 10am, it was very fishable. It was the wind that drove us away.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 25, 2012, 11:42:58 AM
The wind was the killer today. When we got there, the water was really murky but as we fished, I noticed the colour getting better and better. When we left at 10am, it was very fishable. It was the wind that drove us away.

Maybe I better go out and catch one then, thanks for the report.lol.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 25, 2012, 12:25:46 PM
If the wind dies down I think you will be able to catch them. The wind was so strong that it pushed my float up while drifting.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on February 25, 2012, 04:53:50 PM
Thanks for the update chris, probably hit the flow tommorow. Pen was out today and lost one at mid river, so they must see in current visability.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Sterling C on February 25, 2012, 06:33:55 PM
When I left the river at dark today it was snowing/raining very heavily. Water level should stay the same, what the vis is likw is anyones guess
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 25, 2012, 07:10:42 PM
When I left the river at dark today it was snowing/raining very heavily. Water level should stay the same, what the vis is likw is anyones guess
I would think it should be fine as fairly cool out, Wind still blowing.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: greyghost on February 25, 2012, 08:09:23 PM
I am sure happy that I stuck it out on the flow for the day. Wind conditions did make it tough at times, The rain, sleet and snow was intense at times but so were the steelhead! Almost made the critical mistake of changing rivers when I saw the visibility of the water from the crossing bridge at first light. Oh man, am I happy I didn't! ;D 8)   
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: James on February 25, 2012, 08:12:08 PM
I was out from 7am to 5pm ... I thought I was going to have the single hand spey clinic today , but it was cancelled , so I just stayed and fished not matter the conditons . water claritiy improve as day went on , and by afternoon it was looking fair . and by 5pm it was good. any way , most of the moisture that fell is still hanging in the trees .

(https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/p480x480/402695_2745774126005_1307078335_32060597_830133689_n.jpg)

I think I am swithchin to the silex next week , I am getting tired of seeing steelhead caught while I just chuck fly around lol .
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: DRP79 on February 26, 2012, 07:44:28 AM
Any word on how the river looks today? I am really fighting with myself to make the drive out for a bit but would rather save the fuel if its not good.

Thanks
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 26, 2012, 09:34:03 AM
Any word on how the river looks today? I am really fighting with myself to make the drive out for a bit but would rather save the fuel if its not good.

Thanks
Very nice, I was very fortunate too. ;D ;D Report under fishing reports later. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: milo on February 26, 2012, 04:10:30 PM
Any word on how the river looks today? I am really fighting with myself to make the drive out for a bit but would rather save the fuel if its not good.

You should have called me. I have been home all day essentially doing nothing.  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: DRP79 on February 27, 2012, 07:21:12 AM
You should have called me. I have been home all day essentially doing nothing.  ;D

Sorry, i had pretty much written off this weekend with the weather we had been having and was fighting with myself yesterday. Cant wait to get my second.... And third, lol. Maybe next weekend?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: milo on February 27, 2012, 09:01:07 AM
Sorry, i had pretty much written off this weekend with the weather we had been having and was fighting with myself yesterday. Cant wait to get my second.... And third, lol. Maybe next weekend?

Won't work for me. Cuba is waiting.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jewelz on February 27, 2012, 09:26:43 AM
I'm assuming that its beautiful out there right now?....
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on February 27, 2012, 11:01:12 AM
Very windy out there.

http://www.weatheroffice.gc.ca/city/pages/bc-24_metric_e.html
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 27, 2012, 11:05:48 AM
I'm assuming that its beautiful out there right now?....
Very cold and windy with frozen guides, was glad my day ended quickly. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jewelz on February 27, 2012, 11:08:54 AM
Boo! I'm already on my way... Only day off so I guess I'll just have to make the best of it!  ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 28, 2012, 06:27:28 PM
Conditions were good today with some fair catches reported. I was able to find a couple beaching a hatchery doe that was released and lost another.

Light pressure, maybe high gas prices are having an effect on those coming from a distance. It is even 134. 9 here in Chilliwack. ??? ::) Also at htis time of year a number of anglers become fished out. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: James on February 28, 2012, 06:49:34 PM
i noticed less people as well ...

I also noticed Fred's is no longer posting up how many fish are weighed in each day ...

with the rain forecasted this week , it looks more like I won't be lowholed every run .

good fishing is still to come : ) !
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 28, 2012, 07:15:58 PM
i noticed less people as well ...

I also noticed Fred's is no longer posting up how many fish are weighed in each day ...

with the rain forecasted this week , it looks more like I won't be lowholed every run .

good fishing is still to come : ) !
Fred's boys are most likely getting ready for the show in Abby, they will catch up I am sure. Post your question on their facebook page and ask them to update.

Its raining here now. I notice a little more color this afternoon than at first light.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 29, 2012, 12:59:11 PM
Water conditions were very good again this morning, I was able to hook one but my leader broke during one of the many aerials that took place for the 2 minutes I had it on. Should have changed the leader after playing some fish on it yesterday. :-[

Pressure seemed light to me and only saw one fish taken and heard of another during the 2 hours I was out. May go out this afternoon.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on February 29, 2012, 01:07:11 PM
Wanted to go out today but had to go downtown to drop off client's RRSP contributions.

With the snow this morning, it took me 3 hours to get downtown!!!!!

By the time I was done, it was too late to drive another 90 minutes to the Vedder.

I am dying to go out to fish!!!!!!!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 29, 2012, 01:25:35 PM
Wanted to go out today but had to go downtown to drop off client's RRSP contributions.

With the snow this morning, it took me 3 hours to get downtown!!!!!

By the time I was done, it was too late to drive another 90 minutes to the Vedder.

I am dying to go out to fish!!!!!!!

No snow here yet.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 29, 2012, 04:59:40 PM
Heavy wet snow now on the banks of the Verdder.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BigFisher on February 29, 2012, 08:33:29 PM
Huge snow flakes here, Rivers not gonna look good tomorroe. :'(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on February 29, 2012, 09:18:35 PM
No rain now and cool, the river should be fine.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 01, 2012, 01:36:31 PM
River was excellent this morning but I thought it colored some as the morning went on but was still fishable when I left at 11.

Some nice catches reported, not a lot of anglers out as high gas prices are keeping some anglers home I think, especially those that have to drive any distance.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Tee on March 01, 2012, 08:06:53 PM
Many thanks, Chris, for the info. The gas price sure hurts us with the long drive from Vancouver. On the second thought, I use this as an excuse to drive out that way for the cheaper gas prices  ;D.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: 1son on March 01, 2012, 08:37:41 PM
Many thanks, Chris, for the info. The gas price sure hurts us with the long drive from Vancouver. On the second thought, I use this as an excuse to drive out that way for the cheaper gas prices  ;D.
x2
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 02, 2012, 11:38:35 AM
We have had some rain today but river is holding its visibility so far.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on March 02, 2012, 06:23:56 PM
River held it's shape with good vis thru some light rain for the 30 mins or so I was out there.  Surprisingly low tho considering.. I haven't been out for three weeks but I thought we got some decent rain in that stretch and thought the river would be higher when I got there...lol ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 03, 2012, 01:05:24 PM
Visibility around a couple of feet. I thought it got better than a bit worse throughout the morning.

The strong wind was more of a factor than any thing else. Saw a fish lost when speaking to a couple of members of this forum. ;D ;D ;D

I had nothing in an hour or so of trying, broke off on a 20 pound rock so called it a day and went for coffee. ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 04, 2012, 02:12:20 PM
River looked OK when I drove over the Vedder Bridge at 10AM. Must be as saw lots of anglers on the river.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on March 04, 2012, 05:20:56 PM
Vis was up an down today but nicely fishable the whole time.  Just left the river, been raining pretty good the last hr and it looked to just be coloring up a bit more again.  So tomorrow may be up in teh air for conditions... funny thing tho... we found some fish when the vis dropped to just over foot.  Was a decent day overall. ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: the carp on March 05, 2012, 08:36:56 AM
Checked the river at Vedder crossing bridge this a m not up that much but the colour and vis is mud gray and almost zero vis. and still raining hard. Come on spring
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 05, 2012, 11:42:39 AM
Ugly it is, some wet snow falling at higher elevations.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on March 05, 2012, 01:55:12 PM
It has stopped raining... I even see a few patches of sun.. perhaps I go have a look around 4pm.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 05, 2012, 02:21:19 PM
It has stopped raining... I even see a few patches of sun.. perhaps I go have a look around 4pm.
Save your gas Dave.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BigFisher on March 05, 2012, 03:45:28 PM
Save your gas Dave.

Only if you fish below the crossing
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 05, 2012, 05:14:08 PM
Water conditions still poor at 3PM.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on March 05, 2012, 05:54:14 PM
Thank's chris, think I'll wait till wed
No kidding about saving gas, eh?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on March 05, 2012, 06:09:18 PM
Lol... I live 5 mins away.   :o :D  So, yeah I'll be wandering around on the river in the morning looking for a playmate!!  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 05, 2012, 06:17:49 PM
Thank's chris, think I'll wait till wed
No kidding about saving gas, eh?
It has cooled down this afternoon so I believe it should be fishable some time tomorrow, when will be a toss up.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on March 06, 2012, 06:23:41 AM
Well it didn't really rain all night as far as I can tell.  Just a little snow, as it cooled down to 1 degree.   The graph is on the drop, not a lot yet tho.  I'm heading out in a couple mins to have a look... I'll update when I get back. :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on March 06, 2012, 07:42:15 AM
Well it didn't really rain all night as far as I can tell.  Just a little snow, as it cooled down to 1 degree.   The graph is on the drop, not a lot yet tho.  I'm heading out in a couple mins to have a look... I'll update when I get back. :)

Gee I guess he went fishing  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 06, 2012, 09:02:18 AM
Conditions are favorable at this time, lost one and missed another, got hungry and came back for breakfast. ??? ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 07, 2012, 01:30:44 PM
Water conditions good, took the day off from fishing. Reports I got today from most anglers fishing slow the last couple of days.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 08, 2012, 11:27:07 AM
Condition again top notch today. Had a fish tear the roe bag apart, would not come back.  ??? Maybe he or she will still be in the run and I will give it another try after lunch.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 09, 2012, 04:20:16 PM
Water was still holding when I looked a couple of hours ago, was miserable out there with the rain we had for a good part of the day. I felt more miserable by breaking off my third fish of the year  ??? ::), felt like a  good sized one too but of course the ones that get away are always big. ;D

I think I better get away from my 8 pound test leaders, especially when I have a nick in the one today. :-X :-[
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: kid fisherman on March 09, 2012, 07:17:03 PM
Thanks for the info today Chris, I will be out there tommorow!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 09, 2012, 07:21:01 PM
Thanks for the info today Chris, I will be out there tommorow!
Hope it remains clear for you tomorrow and you tangle with one of the good sized ones that are out there.

Remember to check your leader and not be so careless like I was today. :'(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: kid fisherman on March 09, 2012, 07:27:06 PM
Even if its not so great it still will be good to get out! I am thinking  12lb leader for the fast water.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 09, 2012, 07:40:05 PM
And Chris use your head 8lb????? :(
Yes I know but have hardly broke off very many after over 30 years of steelhead fishing but will go to 10 tomorrow. ;D

Did you look at the river at dark?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 09, 2012, 08:08:03 PM
Less then a foot clay banks atleast the ones in the lower end will get a break
Thanks, I will check the lower in the AM.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: kid fisherman on March 09, 2012, 08:09:28 PM
Well if you are out tommorow chris I might run into you!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on March 10, 2012, 01:17:12 AM
finished up in the lower (peach) at 6:30 pm today and the water was still mint with about 3' of vis so you never know. I thought it would blow at any time today as is came down in buckets but even Tam remained very fishable. The only reason I say this is I am not fishing tomorrow or sunday :P
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: DRP79 on March 10, 2012, 07:03:23 AM
 Any word on how it looks today? The graph indicates the river is on the rise.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 10, 2012, 07:37:06 AM
Any word on how it looks today? The graph indicates the river is on the rise.
Not sure will drive down for a look for you, back in about 10 minutes.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: DRP79 on March 10, 2012, 07:46:26 AM
Thanks Chris, much appreciated.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 10, 2012, 08:05:20 AM
At 8 AM visibility in the Vedder Canal at the Freeway Bridge it is 6 to 8 inches, glad I slept in. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: DRP79 on March 10, 2012, 08:10:24 AM
Thanks again Chris, your reports are much appreciated for us commuters.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 10, 2012, 12:41:39 PM
The river seems to be improving from when I first looked at it this am saying it was around 8 inches, Fred's site reported around 10 to 12 inches so it must be improving. I see the snow level is down on the mountains now with a cooler front moving in. At noon by the Hydro Bridge I would say visibility is around 18 inches now, a few anglers out in the rain that is still falling. Trip was worth while as I found another Drennan float, a 20 gram. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on March 10, 2012, 01:11:09 PM
Fred's site reported around 10 to 12 inches so it must be improving.
Or business is slow ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on March 10, 2012, 05:34:53 PM
The river seems to be improving from when I first looked at it this am saying it was around 8 inches, Fred's site reported around 10 to 12 inches so it must be improving. I see the snow level is down on the mountains now with a cooler front moving in. At noon by the Hydro Bridge I would say visibility is around 18 inches now, a few anglers out in the rain that is still falling. Trip was worth while as I found another Drennan float, a 20 gram. ;D ;D

Hey Chris, next time Searun is out that way I will get him to leave a couple of our cork floats for you to try. These ones are way nicer then the ones I gave you last time.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: steelie-slayer on March 10, 2012, 09:40:46 PM
how was she looking at dark? ,thinking of heading out in the early AM
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 11, 2012, 07:41:08 AM
how was she looking at dark? ,thinking of heading out in the early AM
Sorry I was not down there, check Fred's Custom Tackle Facebook page as they often post water conditions most mornings.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: steelie-slayer on March 11, 2012, 07:53:24 AM
Sorry I was not down there, check Fred's Custom Tackle Facebook p-age as the often post water conditions most mornings.
no problem im already on the way to the river, the water level seems to be holding, i think it'll be fine , besides were going up past the clay banks.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Tadpole on March 11, 2012, 08:00:48 PM
 Just came back from Sat.- Sunday fishing. Had 2 wild males to the shore(11 & 12lb) and lost one in the middle river :). Did not see any other fish caught.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bederko on March 11, 2012, 08:31:13 PM
Water was ugly at the crossing when we drove over at 5:30 pm, weather was nasty all day today.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: steelie-slayer on March 11, 2012, 09:48:58 PM
fished from tamihia to ranger run today. The water got uglier as the day went on, at about 2:15 seen a huge chunk of clay and trees fall in the river from the top of a clay slide between allison and tamihai  :o watch those clay banks, there givin way, and slippery as hell everywhere around them. Above the prison camp the water was mint, with about 3/4 feet of vis and a deep green colour but a tab bit high. Seen a nice one landed on the other side of me, along with 2 more lost. I had a nice buck on but lost it as i was trying to tail it. Poured rain and snow all day, and to top it all off my dads reel broke not even 2 hours into the day  :-\ Luckily later that day we meet up with a friend who had a spare reel, he got 2 in the morning at lickman.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 12, 2012, 07:32:44 PM
Went out for an hour this afternoon with no success other than found another Drennan and 2 DNE's. ;D ;D Visibility was around 2 feet in the rain.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 13, 2012, 06:29:23 AM
Snow on the ground this AM. ???
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jewelz on March 13, 2012, 10:45:40 AM
What's the weather like out there right now? Mostly concerned about the wind...
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 13, 2012, 11:35:27 AM
What's the weather like out there right now? Mostly concerned about the wind...
No wind at the present, visibility had slipped from last night, I thought the visibility was about 18 inches. Saw no fish caught.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jewelz on March 13, 2012, 11:38:38 AM
Thanks Chris. Would the water clarity be better above Allison?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 13, 2012, 12:08:40 PM
Thanks Chris. Would the water clarity be better above Allison?
It maybe will be above the slides, maybe the conditions will improve this afternoon below the slides too.  :-\
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fly fisher on March 13, 2012, 11:52:14 PM
i skipped school to go out today with my dad the upper was nice. it had a green tint to it and was prime but no fish for me. had fun testing out my custom kingpinimperial only one like it in canada atm.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Tadpole on March 14, 2012, 06:55:25 AM
i skipped school to go out today with my dad the upper was nice. it had a green tint to it and was prime but no fish for me. had fun testing out my custom kingpinimperial only one like it in canada atm.

Reading your post........ It looks like you should not skip school. ;D :D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: HOOK on March 14, 2012, 04:20:35 PM
whats the river looking like ?

thinking of heading out to fish ........ and get cheaper gas lol  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 14, 2012, 05:35:53 PM
Water starting to color up when I left a few minutes ago was in nice shape most of the day with some good catchs too. I even had some chances but did not take advantage of them. :o ??? Was nice fishing in the snow too. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on March 14, 2012, 07:09:29 PM
water turned to garbage! After hearing water was prime from a buddy this morning I ripped up to Tam only to find about 6" of vis, on up to Allison and saw a fair amount of color still, very nice but when I headed up to Borden saw that Ranger was puking gray. Ended the day around 5 at the crossing and the vis had deteriorated to about a foot. The river is very unpredictable these days. The graph is dropping, its cold, and should be mint but clay is still sliding into the river at random times. I would say its a toss up Hook, I'll probably slip out first light but may just have to fish the top end.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 14, 2012, 07:51:44 PM
water turned to garbage! After hearing water was prime from a buddy this morning I ripped up to Tam only to find about 6" of vis, on up to Allison and saw a fair amount of color still, very nice but when I headed up to Borden saw that Ranger was puking gray. Ended the day around 5 at the crossing and the vis had deteriorated to about a foot. The river is very unpredictable these days. The graph is dropping, its cold, and should be mint but clay is still sliding into the river at random times. I would say its a toss up Hook, I'll probably slip out first light but may just have to fish the top end.
With all the rain forcast and now falling it will be better to go to work. ;D or better still sleep in. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on March 14, 2012, 10:18:56 PM
I agree chris, was out today. by 5pm in the lower it totally silted up.
Managed to get three to the beach today, 12lb hatch, and two wilds before the water went ugly:(
Oh well, got to wait for the river to go green again.

da's me
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 15, 2012, 07:14:29 AM
I agree chris, was out today. by 5pm in the lower it totally silted up.
Managed to get three to the beach today, 12lb hatch, and two wilds before the water went ugly:(
Oh well, got to wait for the river to go green again.

da's me
Nicely done, looks like everyone landed a fish but me yesterday. :o Will check conditions later but I think it will not be looking too good.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Big Steel on March 15, 2012, 08:54:49 AM
I agree chris, was out today. by 5pm in the lower it totally silted up.
Managed to get three to the beach today, 12lb hatch, and two wilds before the water went ugly:(
Oh well, got to wait for the river to go green again.

da's me
Nicely done Yoda, Jealous!!   ;D... I think I may be done for the year... My back went out yesterday morning at work!   ???  So we'll see how long it takes to get back to where I could even think about walking the river let alone fighting a Steel.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 15, 2012, 11:47:38 AM
I thought visibility was about a foot this am but while picking up one of the garbage bags I have hanging on the gate post above the BC Hydro Bridge an angler came up from the river and said it was around 2 feet. :-\

By the way who are the anglers who would throw a plastic bag with prawns in it into the bush at the parking lot as well as another with a container with some roe in it along with the usual coffee cups? I can never understand how fishers who you would think would enjoy a pristine environment to fish around could do this.

I guess they think there is people around that will be their garbage collectors. ??? ::) :'( :o
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: firebird on March 15, 2012, 03:04:13 PM
By the way who are the anglers who would throw a plastic bag with prawns in it into the bush at the parking lot as well as another with a container with some roe in it along with the usual coffee cups? I can never understand how fishers who you would think would enjoy a pristine environment to fish around could do this.

I guess they think there is people around that will be their garbage collectors. ??? ::) :'( :o

If that is what they are thinking, I wish they wouldn't throw it in the bush for our sake (I pick up crap too). Yes, the fishermen trashing their own playgrounds is bad but another thing that really baffles me is when people pick up their dog's turd in one of those little plastic bags, carefully twist tie it up, then fire it into the bush  ???
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 15, 2012, 03:52:38 PM
If that is what they are thinking, I wish they wouldn't throw it in the bush for our sake (I pick up crap too). Yes, the fishermen trashing their own playgrounds is bad but another thing that really baffles me is when people pick up their dog's turd in one of those little plastic bags, carefully twist tie it up, then fire it into the bush  ???
And in the river too. ??? The Master reports around 18 inches of visibility a couple of hours ago. Mild out now no rain but a with a strong west wind, means snow melt.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: PistolPete on March 15, 2012, 06:27:58 PM
Chris what is this talk about melting snow? I am on day 3 in Mesa , Az
Went and watched Reds and Angels in the 30 degree heat. Kids loved
the snow CONES!!!!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 16, 2012, 10:39:01 AM
River is sitting about 18 inches but is now raining hard again. Saw a fish lost while checking the conditions.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fishforthought on March 16, 2012, 05:43:28 PM
i was fishing the vedder all day today, no bites and didnt see anyone get anything, though most people left when the downpour started from around 9:30am to at least 11:30.

i was there from 830 to about 4 and the river was very murky



my first day fishing the vedder was a 7/10 experience with the scenery, beautiful fishing area being a 10/10 but the other fisherman making it a poor experience by lowholing me within my first hour, at least he left when the rain picked up :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: CohoMan on March 16, 2012, 06:57:11 PM
Hi guys, anymore updates on river conditions?

Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 16, 2012, 07:00:37 PM
Yes the river was getting murky when I left around 3, most likely caused by the heavy rain showers that fell during the afternoon.

I managed to hook one but lost it after a couple of head shakes. Having trouble holding on to them the last while. ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on March 16, 2012, 07:54:34 PM
was out today in afternoon for a couple of hours, and water vis went downhill at about 3pm.
Unlike you chris, didn't even get a takedown. Kept looking at my boots and decided if i can't see them anymore, the fish are pretty well going to have to have my offering bump them on the head.  Hopfully the rain and slides subside.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Knife on March 16, 2012, 08:30:42 PM
 Went out from 11:30 to 5:30, and visibility went from 1 1/2' to 6in. twice while we were there. Each time we just waited an hour and the water would clear up. It sure did rain hard on and off as well, so it is a tough call for Sat.
 Did manage to release a wild buck about 9 lbs. and a bull trout around 2 1/2 lbs. on a 6" pink worm. Managed to remove a hook from the back of the sleelhead that looked like it had been there for a few days.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Sandman on March 16, 2012, 10:38:33 PM
i was fishing the vedder all day today, no bites and didnt see anyone get anything, though most people left when the downpour started from around 9:30am to at least 11:30.

I got mine about 11:30 in the lower river, just after that downpour.  Visibility was about a foot at the time.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 17, 2012, 11:53:08 AM
Conditions were good this AM and I was able to break my losing streak with a small wild doe. When I left around 10 the conditions were still OK but when having coffee around 11 we got a report the conditions went in the tank, because of a clay slide. I did not look to verify that. Snow level is low on the hills so it may improve again but we are having steady rain in the valley floor and sure was cold out there but that is steelhead fishing. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Knife on March 17, 2012, 12:20:55 PM
 Sorry Sandman, I should have been more specific. Instead of using the term clear, I should have said water clarity went from 6" to over a foot. Obviously chunks of clay were falling into the river yesterday, just like today.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 17, 2012, 05:18:13 PM
River did not look to bad when I checked an hour ago but as Knife says it comes around then goes out again as more clay falls in.

Finding Drennans floats remains good for me this season as while checking the water conditions this afternoon I found a 25 gram and also a Clear drift for good measure. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fishforthought on March 17, 2012, 07:35:01 PM
i fished from the vedder crossing bridge up to alisons pool today, didnt get a bite, visibility was pretty good in the morning, i saw one old guy pull in a nice wild buck that had swallowed the hook and was bleeding bad

what do you think tomorrow will be like chris? is it worth a trip out there>?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on March 17, 2012, 09:01:36 PM
Chris do you you think that you can report every hour or so? Maybe also you could say if you were from:

Chilliwack would you go?
Abbotsford would you go?
Langley would you go?
Surrey would you go?
Vancouver would you go?

these being in relation to how much gas will cost of course :D

The conditions reports are great and appreciated but guys the way the river has been as of late it is very hard to tell what it will be like. So take a risk and waste some fuel, I burn about $15-20 every time I go
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fishforthought on March 17, 2012, 09:29:26 PM
dont forget to add "if from maple ridge would you go?" haha

ill be there tomorrow again looking for my first winter steelhead
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 17, 2012, 09:43:08 PM
Chris do you you think that you can report every hour or so? Maybe also you could say if you were from:

Chilliwack would you go?
Abbotsford would you go?
Langley would you go?
Surrey would you go?
Vancouver would you go?

these being in relation to how much gas will cost of course :D

The conditions reports are great and appreciated but guys the way the river has been as of late it is very hard to tell what it will be like. So take a risk and waste some fuel, I burn about $15-20 every time I go
You better buy us a under water camera. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 17, 2012, 09:43:56 PM
dont forget to add "if from maple ridge would you go?" haha

ill be there tomorrow again looking for my first winter steelhead
Water conditions were fine at dark.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on March 17, 2012, 10:28:31 PM
water was great at end of day, managed about a 16lb wild at 3;30, and my buddy bonked a 9.6 hatch doe which he weighed in at fred's.
 

Da's me
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Tadpole on March 18, 2012, 02:20:00 PM
One wild to hand this morning in mid river. Water cleared nicely.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fullahead on March 18, 2012, 03:04:32 PM
Two wild ones released by 0830 am , Mid river. The river was in good shape.  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fly fisher on March 18, 2012, 08:22:29 PM
Reading your post........ It looks like you should not skip school. ;D :D
i only skipped because i had bin waiting six weeks for my custom pin.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: nickredway on March 19, 2012, 07:31:07 AM
LOL!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 19, 2012, 11:14:17 AM
River is nice again today but back on a losing streak again. ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 20, 2012, 12:45:55 PM
Water was in good shape at first light and I managed to continue my losing streak even after putting on a new Owner hook this AM. ::)

Water colored up around 9:30 when I went for the usual coffee breakwith visibility down to a foot, looked like another clay slump from above. Also it was very windy all morning and still is.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on March 20, 2012, 05:47:05 PM
i only skipped because i had bin waiting six weeks for my custom pin.


buddy, with spelling like that the last thing you need to be doing is skipping school!  ;) post up a pick of your new reel, I'd like to see it.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Geff_t on March 20, 2012, 05:49:41 PM
post up a pick of your new reel, I'd like to see it.
X2
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fly fisher on March 20, 2012, 09:10:37 PM
posted a thread with it lol
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 21, 2012, 08:32:57 PM
Water condition great, had a couple of chances but came up empty, Lew lost one and I saw a good sized hatchery doe flossed. :-X
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: joshhowat on March 21, 2012, 09:27:37 PM
How was it flossed was someone bb? Or was it in clear water and someone did the old rip and jerk. Sounds like the vedder is still going strong. Can't wait till may 1 when some meat donkey drives his jet boat half way up the river again.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BentRodsGuiding on March 21, 2012, 09:29:46 PM
Thanks for leaving all the fish behind Chris, you are most generous. :P
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 22, 2012, 11:19:56 AM
Thanks for leaving all the fish behind Chris, you are most generous. :P
Have to leave some for the working guys. ;D ;D

Water again lovely, came closer today than yesterday but two more loses. ??? Partner at least got one to the beach. Going to invest in some new hooks today.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on March 22, 2012, 05:34:52 PM
I know how you feel chris. Same thing happened to me yesterday, two floats down for the fight, and the fight is over.
Oh well, i'd be more dejected if i wasn't getting the pulls.
Maybe it's the maple leaf on the float that's got you on this streak, mines just red.
I have also learned to pvr the canucks games, maybe you should try that with the leafs. 8-0, Ouch :'(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 22, 2012, 06:54:55 PM
I know how you feel chris. Same thing happened to me yesterday, two floats down for the fight, and the fight is over.
Oh well, i'd be more dejected if i wasn't getting the pulls.
Maybe it's the maple leaf on the float that's got you on this streak, mines just red.
I have also learned to pvr the canucks games, maybe you should try that with the leafs. 8-0, Ouch :'(
Back with the Gammy's now, armed and dangerous tomorrow. ;D ;D ;D

River conditions should be good too. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 23, 2012, 04:11:46 PM
Conditions great bite the Gammy's were not needed as did not get a bite. ???

Highlight of the outing was having coffee with forum members Trophy Hunter, DMW, Lew and Dave. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 26, 2012, 07:29:00 PM
Conditions good today, further report under fishing reports.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: joshhowat on March 26, 2012, 08:06:05 PM
Guess the fish liked the morning rain.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 26, 2012, 08:16:18 PM
Guess the fish liked the morning rain.
;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 27, 2012, 11:32:52 AM
Water still lovely and was able to land my second fish in as many days, around a 7 pound wild doe. Maybe my losing streak is well behind me now. ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on March 27, 2012, 11:34:18 AM
That's because you've passed the losing streak to me. :P I'm staring at the whole valley from my office right now, wishing that I am out there again. >:(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 27, 2012, 11:36:10 AM
That's because you've passed the losing streak to me. :P I'm staring at the whole valley from my office right now, wishing that I am out there again. >:(
I would leave the office now and break that losing streak. ;D ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 28, 2012, 01:43:10 PM
Conditions were excellent this AM but was showing some color when I left but still fishable at that time.

Did not find anything except two floats one being a Drennan, having a banner year finding them. ;D ;D Thanks to the many anglers that use them and some that lose them. ;D :D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dennis.t on March 28, 2012, 06:52:09 PM
Conditions were excellent this AM but was showing some color when I left but still fishable at that time.

Did not find anything except two floats one being a Drennan, having a banner year finding them. ;D ;D Thanks to the many anglers that use them and some that lose them. ;D :D
As i sit here in a work camp up in Fort Mac and read your reports night after night! I smile and stay connected to my home in the wack.I thank you sir for this! :D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 29, 2012, 06:45:16 PM
I see the river has risen a few inches today and I was getting reports it has colored up, going for a look now and will file a report in an hour or so for those wondering what to do tomorrow.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 29, 2012, 08:13:29 PM
Visibility at 8 PM was a milky one foot at the Lickman Road area.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bigblue on March 30, 2012, 10:35:03 AM
Is the river blown today?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mzmann on March 30, 2012, 10:47:12 AM
From Freds FB page for today................. The river is still more than fishable with about 1 ½ feet visibility. Go back to slightly larger and brighter bait and enjoy the extra elbow room.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 30, 2012, 01:38:24 PM
Is the river blown today?
I just looked and I did not think it was that good, maybe others will differ.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: bigblue on March 30, 2012, 02:02:23 PM
I just looked and I did not think it was that good, maybe others will differ.

Thanks Chris. :)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 30, 2012, 02:11:11 PM
Thanks Chris. :)

I will give an update later as it may clear as the day progresses.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 30, 2012, 07:34:49 PM
Made a trek to the river this afternoon and it was the most miserable weather conditions one could ask for with very heavy rain. I missed something 3 times but think it was a trout as I saw 2 break water as they chased fry.

I saw one fellow heading out to the river while I tied up some roe bags in the Leaf Mobile, next time I looked up he was landing and retaining a steelhead. He must have only made 2 or 3 casts. :o

Visibility had improved from when I looked at it earlier in the day and was in the 1.5 to 2 feet range, anyones guess if it will stay the same, get better or change for the worse by tomorrow. :-\ I would guess it depends on how much rain we get overnight and how cool it is.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on March 31, 2012, 09:44:44 AM
Conditions good this AM except for a cold east wind. Lost another with George landing one wild and losing another. Time for breakfast at Cookies now. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: joshhowat on March 31, 2012, 04:59:43 PM
Hey Chris are your fish coming unhooked or you breaking them off. I Went on a 5 fish losing streak at one point this year, due to unhooking. I tried every hook in the book and same old. Then I started using heavier floral carbon leader and pulled alot harder on them.

Big change I have only lost 1 fish out of my last 6. Plus I can't believe how good the floral carbon wears vs maxima ug. For example i hooked a buck today in a real tuff landing spot. I pulled it close enough to see it was a clean hat so I wanted it. Any ways a bunch of bs screwing around with that fish dragging it back up the river like 4 time from my dumb spot. I land it only to find its hooked deep and my leader was rubbing on its teeth the whole fight. No way maxima ug would of lasted that.

What I'm trying to say is keep more pressure on them and it might  be usefull to you.

Josh
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 01, 2012, 08:57:56 AM
Heavy rain today in Chilliwack, cold too, feels like winter. ::)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: BigFisher on April 01, 2012, 10:30:02 AM
I hardly ever lose fish. Once you get the hook up, wait for the 1st second the fish eases up and get a better hookset if you had not already. The rest of the fight you just need to apply pressure. Play the fish away from shore as much as possible to play it out. Because if there belly touches bottom when there close to shore they go crazy, youll also have less line out to absorb the stretch, usually results in break offs. This works for me.

Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Every Day on April 01, 2012, 12:16:09 PM
Heavy rain today in Chilliwack, cold too, feels like winter. ::)

Gorgeous sunny day here....
Was snowing last night for a good 4 or more hours though, was even sticking! Weird weather!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 02, 2012, 10:52:51 AM
Conditions remain good, lost another this morning, small but bright however I did find a nice float. ::) ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 04, 2012, 12:41:13 PM
Conditions remain good but was cool again this morning, Lew said it was 1.6 celsius maybe that is why it was poor fishing. Nothing last 2 outings but was good Monday when I found 3.

Found another Maple Leaf Drennan, two DNE's and a few foams so along with coffee with Lew and Dave it made for an enjoyable outing. Also saw around a 12 inch trout break surface, chasing fry that are showing in good numbers.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Rodney on April 04, 2012, 12:42:08 PM
That's because you need a Little Shaver. Should I bring you one this afternoon? ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 04, 2012, 08:36:36 PM
Another outing this evening in perfect conditions and racked up another loss on a blade  ???, Found another Drennan but Rodney spotted it first but he did not want it after I retrieved it after a bit of a wade. Shane was happy to have it though. ;D

I think I will break the losing streak tomorrow.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 06, 2012, 10:06:15 AM
River very fishable but crawling with anglers, a good place to stay away from this weekend. ;D

A good Easter weekend to all readers of this topic.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: obie1fish on April 09, 2012, 05:20:28 PM
I think I got Gadsonitis- lost one on the blade today.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: typhoon on April 09, 2012, 06:03:25 PM
River very low and very busy. Saw 2 landed and 1 lost in the lower today. No luck for us.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Ezio on April 10, 2012, 12:05:11 AM
Rode over the crossing on my way to cultus for a xc bike ride  / flyfishing outing, river is super clear! Today would have been a beautiful day to head out but i didnt want to bare the crowds since i have very limited range on my bike or by foot (no car),  i have been too discouraged to go recently anyway, since i have hooked into 12 fish this season but either broke off or lost them all closest i have been was a wild buck 3 feet from shore in febuary. But always gotta look at the positives, and i will always take 12 lost steelhead then none at all! Not to terribly bad for my first season targeting steel.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Iyekim76 on April 10, 2012, 01:21:49 AM
Was upper river yesterday Apr 9 checking out a few holes and tried Canal as well before heading home but to no avail. I should probably try a blade or spinner on my next outing. Just wondering, has anyone used Dick Nites for steelies? Thinking of trying it out for fly with a sink tip. The river's running gin-clear and can't wait for rain...

Mike
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: mr.p on April 10, 2012, 10:11:15 PM
I see the river has risen a bit with these warm temps, how is the vis looking as of late today?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Animal Chin on April 11, 2012, 09:36:02 PM
Any opinions on what the river is going to be like tomorrow? Wondering if tomorrow or Friday is a better bet.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on April 12, 2012, 08:41:11 PM
hopefully someone can give me an idea in the morning what the shape of the vis is . I was out on wed and the water was perfect even though it had come up.
Guess that was snow melt. hoping the clay banks hold for fri. Managed to land 2 wilds, and saw some others having some luck as well.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: hue-nut on April 12, 2012, 09:38:46 PM
was fishing mid river today till around 4, it pissed rain for a good while and by the time I left the water had colored up pretty good to under 2 feet. Tomorrow will be a toss up imo
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on April 12, 2012, 11:01:47 PM
Thanks for the info hue nut, with gas being as expensive as it is any info is greatl :)
Maybe by 9am someone may post for friday the 13th,feeling lucky, maybe that big male is just around the corner:)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 13, 2012, 01:53:02 PM
Water was fine at 10. Yesterday the fishing was good, for some. Watch for it on film, one day soon. :-\
Also I hope some that read this come to the cleanup tomorrow. www.cleanrivers.ca
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Jewelz on April 14, 2012, 10:33:05 PM
What was it like today? Planning to head out tomorrow morning.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: leapin' tyee on April 14, 2012, 10:47:54 PM
Water level dropped slightly and maintain good. Tight line ;)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: azafai on April 20, 2012, 12:02:07 PM

is the river fishable?  or blown out?
there were a lots of rain recently up there.
thanks.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 20, 2012, 12:45:23 PM
is the river fishable?  or blown out?
there were a lots of rain recently up there.
thanks.
It was mud today, maybe the season is over as the freshet will be kicking into high gear with the coming warm weather.

It has been a good steelhead season, I think most will agree.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: EZ_Rolling on April 20, 2012, 03:08:14 PM
High and dirty all the way to the top
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: leapin' tyee on April 20, 2012, 08:38:28 PM
It was brown this morning, but start to clear out at noon .
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 21, 2012, 10:07:26 AM
Looked better at first light today too.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: leapin' tyee on April 21, 2012, 01:48:40 PM
Water level is dropping slowly , 2-3 ft visibility.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: RG on April 22, 2012, 06:45:00 PM
Anybody catch the conditions today? Thinking about one more go at it tomorrow, cheers.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 22, 2012, 08:07:31 PM
Anybody catch the conditions today? Thinking about one more go at it tomorrow, cheers.
Was very good in the AM, did not check after.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: leapin' tyee on April 22, 2012, 08:41:03 PM
My buddy told me, water condition were good today. Tight line
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 23, 2012, 09:17:33 PM
Freshet is now on, I would say the 2011 - 2012 steelhead season is over.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fishbuster on April 24, 2012, 08:44:33 AM
It's time to do some lake fishing now.  Thanks Chris for all the water condition updates  throughout the Steelhead season.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: yoda on April 24, 2012, 08:50:09 AM
I agree Chris, i was out yesterday,and the water clarity was poor in lower and rising all day.
Upper might provide some opportunity, but could be sketchy:(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 24, 2012, 10:29:40 AM
I agree Chris, i was out yesterday,and the water clarity was poor in lower and rising all day.
Upper might provide some opportunity, but could be sketchy:(
Done like dinner today.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: flyrabbit on April 24, 2012, 06:59:25 PM
thanks for all the updates and information, Chris...very helpful.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fly fisher on April 24, 2012, 09:21:31 PM
i guess im taking my dog to a dif system this weekend for his first fishing trip out with me gonna be interesting
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: leapin' tyee on April 25, 2012, 11:37:59 AM
Today water level is high and dirty with zero visibility.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: jet520 on April 26, 2012, 04:48:56 PM
i guess im taking my dog to a dif system this weekend for his first fishing trip out with me gonna be interesting

Hey fly fisher it was great meeting you and your dad during my trip at the Vedder. Unfortunately nothing was hooked after you left and the river blew out the next day on my final try. Thanks again for the info. Will drop you a line next time I'm up.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: fly fisher on April 26, 2012, 05:10:56 PM
Hey fly fisher it was great meeting you and your dad during my trip at the Vedder. Unfortunately nothing was hooked after you left and the river blew out the next day on my final try. Thanks again for the info. Will drop you a line next time I'm up.
send me an email ill add u on fb so u can let me know
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: 4TheKids on April 26, 2012, 07:08:07 PM
Another thanks to Chris.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: azafai on April 26, 2012, 09:36:43 PM
Another thanks to Chris.

X2
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on April 29, 2012, 07:24:54 PM
Visibilty about 2 feet this afternoon, went out to try for a steelhead for virus testing but no success. Maybe tomorrow, the last day for float fishing.
Title: Last day of gear fishing at the Vedder
Post by: leapin' tyee on April 30, 2012, 09:14:56 AM
Just to remind everybody that this is the last day of gear fishing at the Vedder.   May 1st will be only Fly fishing below the Vedder crossing, Please check regulation.
Title: Re: Last day of gear fishing at the Vedder
Post by: chris gadsden on April 30, 2012, 12:49:15 PM
Just to remind everybody that this is the last day of gear fishing at the Vedder.   May 1st will be only Fly fishing below the Vedder crossing, Please check regulation.
I was the only one out there today, that I could see anyway. ;D ;D
Title: Re: Last day of gear fishing at the Vedder
Post by: leapin' tyee on April 30, 2012, 06:08:55 PM
I was the only one out there today, that I could see anyway. ;D ;D

Hi Chris, What is the condition and did you catch anything? Since i cannot read the fishing report section yet.             Thanks
Title: Re: Last day of gear fishing at the Vedder
Post by: chris gadsden on April 30, 2012, 06:13:34 PM
Water got dirty, was not too bad early on, two take downs, maybe trout.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: colchilibeck on May 04, 2012, 05:28:52 PM
Has anyone been out lately for fly only season? I am in Vancouver and am on the fence for either going to the Vedder or Squamish. This is my first year fishing the Vedder so I don't know what later season fishing is like.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: younggun on May 04, 2012, 06:29:51 PM
Both rivers are in freshet. And its LATE in the season, they're called winter steelhead for a reason, leave the spawners alone.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Carich980 on May 04, 2012, 07:00:28 PM
Wow... if thats the case move the Fly only season back a few months. I'm going to head out Saturday morning your welcome to join me if you like.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: nickredway on May 04, 2012, 07:53:27 PM
The whole of April would be sick!
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: kingpin on May 04, 2012, 08:19:20 PM
the whole of march and april is already sick on the fly even with bait guys around. no need to change the season
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: younggun on May 04, 2012, 08:32:41 PM
Quote
the whole of march and april is already sick on the fly even with bait guys around. no need to change the season

Posted by: kingpin

X2
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on May 04, 2012, 08:35:13 PM
The whole of April would be sick!
Totally agree.  Consider what a fly only regulation in April would bring ... many out of town/country anglers resulting in a boost to the local economy; tackle shops, motels, restaurants ,fuel outlets, campsites, guides, etc.  Then add in a special levy for this quality fishery for these anglers to support needed habitat restoration techniques that would benefit all other anglers as well.
Yup ;)  Been advocating that for years but sadly, can't see it happening.

Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on May 04, 2012, 08:38:39 PM
Totally agree.  Consider what a fly only regulation in April would bring ... many out of town/country anglers resulting in a boost to the local economy; tackle shops, motels, restaurants ,fuel outlets, campsites, guides, etc.  Then add in a special levy for this quality fishery for these anglers to support needed habitat restoration techniques that would benefit all other anglers as well.
Yup ;)  Been advocating that for years but sadly, can't see it happening.


Move to England. ;D ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: nickredway on May 04, 2012, 08:47:35 PM
I'm not talking about the whole river, just the crossing down to powerlines would suffice.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: kingpin on May 04, 2012, 08:52:49 PM
Totally agree.  Consider what a fly only regulation in April would bring ... many out of town/country anglers resulting in a boost to the local economy; tackle shops, motels, restaurants ,fuel outlets, campsites, guides, etc.  Then add in a special levy for this quality fishery for these anglers to support needed habitat restoration techniques that would benefit all other anglers as well.
Yup ;)  Been advocating that for years but sadly, can't see it happening.



Id say it would bring less money in...the amount of gear guys coming from all over BC and the US to fish it now is crazy.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on May 04, 2012, 09:48:49 PM
Id say it would bring less money in...the amount of gear guys coming from all over BC and the US to fish it now is crazy.
I disagree.  This one month fishery could become a relatively affordable and quickly famous destination for not only the fortunate locals who choose to fish a fly, but also for the already savvy Japanese, European and American anglers who fish this river for salmon. The potential for a quality, fly only fishery like this, so close to so many people worldwide through both Vancouver and Seattle airports is immense. 
The spin offs in watershed improvements alone would be worth it, IMO


Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Sandman on May 04, 2012, 10:13:19 PM
When are they gonna have a "bait only" season? Us gut chuckers have a hard enough time finding water that hasnt been pounded by speyguys all day, we need our own season.

I think a year round bait ban is in order. :o
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dave on May 05, 2012, 04:31:01 PM
I think a year round bait ban is in order. :o
I could support that.  Good to see we agree on something Sandman :D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: typhoon on May 05, 2012, 05:04:01 PM
Totally off topic. Start a new thread or just resurrect one of the old ones. Nothing new here.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Old Blue on May 05, 2012, 05:23:31 PM
I was out this morning for 4 hours around the train bridge.  Water level was decent and good visibility but no love for me.  Had one hit and countless steelhead parr taps and didn't see anyone else hook up. 
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Carich980 on May 05, 2012, 08:16:59 PM
As stated above Water was in great shape. I had a good strike on a Purple Hobo but missed it. Caught a small trout on a muddler.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Sandman on May 06, 2012, 07:41:19 AM
Totally off topic. Start a new thread or just resurrect one of the old ones. Nothing new here.

Absolutely correct typhoon...water conditions are great...perfect for flyfishing.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Carich980 on May 06, 2012, 11:51:09 PM
Anyone else out today see that boat going up and down the river, Lowe with a blue stripe on the side and a merc outboard? I was debating slapping him in the face with my spey line. Water is still good and appears to be lowering. I saw a new float go drifting by??? Interesting events but no takes for me...
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: HOOK on May 11, 2012, 08:21:28 PM
whats the river looking like these days ?

im thinking of heading out before work monday morning but dont wanna make the drive and get up that early for no visibility conditions  :-\

thanks guys
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Old Blue on May 11, 2012, 09:22:19 PM
I would think it's pretty high considering all the melting higher up, on tuesday when i drove over highway 1 bridge it looked up considerably compared to the previous week.  Maybe call Fred's.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: HOOK on May 11, 2012, 10:43:19 PM
I already know its up,  Im more concerned with clarity. freds hasn't updated since May 6th :-(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on May 12, 2012, 04:16:13 AM
whats the river looking like these days ?

im thinking of heading out before work monday morning but dont wanna make the drive and get up that early for no visibility conditions  :-\

thanks guys
Will check later today and on Sunday.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: leapin' tyee on May 12, 2012, 08:56:08 AM
River is in good shape this morning ,not too high. Tight line.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: HOOK on May 12, 2012, 10:15:36 AM
I appreciate the condition updates from you Chris and yes i realize your stop once the river goes 'fly only'  ;)

thank you Tyee and i lok forward to your sunday update Chris  ;D
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on May 12, 2012, 10:37:56 AM
I appreciate the condition updates from you Chris and yes i realize your stop once the river goes 'fly only'  ;)

thank you Tyee and i lok forward to your sunday update Chris  ;D
Yes as stated above condition were excellent. I talked to 2 fly chaps by the Hydro Bridge and they said they had nothing   ;).

Also had to inform an old chap  :D that was bar fishing in the same area it was closed, said he did not know. Some of you may have seen him bar fishing in this area during the open season. I could have phoned him in but I thought just talking to him was suffice, in his eighties I believe.

Also two people fly fishing in the log dump area, could see smolts chasing their flies as they retrieved, not much one could do about that and I did not stay to see if they were keeping any.

Warm today so not sure if the river will hold on until Monday for you Hook.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on May 13, 2012, 09:43:31 AM
River still holding this AM. Saw three chaps fly fishing, looked like they were targeting smolts.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dennis.t on May 13, 2012, 09:53:57 AM
River still holding this AM. Saw three chaps fly fishing, looked like they were targeting smolts.
And thats the rub? Is not this fur flinger only opening supposed to be for adult spawning steelhead on there reds? This really saddens me! >:(
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: purplehelmet on May 13, 2012, 12:05:53 PM
If I understand correctly, those smolts are C & R this month, right?
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on May 13, 2012, 01:02:53 PM
If I understand correctly, those smolts are C & R this month, right?
Yes
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: HOOK on May 13, 2012, 01:48:15 PM
have you ever fished this time of year Dennis ?

last year i took a chrome bullet at this time of the month last year and didnt hook a single kelted fish nor did i see any hooked  ::) the reason the river is closed above the crossing bridge is because that is where the majority of spawning fish will be located. I also make sure to use hooks large enough that the smolts cant grab hold of them, they can pluck at the flies as much as they want and believe me they do but i havent hooked one yet fair of fouled.

thank you for the updates Chris  ;D



HOOK - wonders if Dennis T ever has anything positive to say  :-\
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Carich980 on May 13, 2012, 04:26:45 PM
I'm sure enough by catch smolts will be released with extra care to make it through and able to return to your Borax laced roe.

I'm curious as to how many juvenile fish are poisoned in the river system during bait seasons and the effects that Borax style cures have on Steel head / Salmon that have ingested it through out their spawn cycle....

If it holds I'll be out on Tuesday if anyone wants to go.

Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: HOOK on May 13, 2012, 11:09:35 PM
how early you heading out Carich ?

i forget about the wifes plans for monday during the day so im having to change my fishing morning  ::)

feel free to email me, click on my handle im pretty sure its there in my info
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Dennis.t on May 14, 2012, 07:38:54 PM
have you ever fished this time of year Dennis ?

last year i took a chrome bullet at this time of the month last year and didnt hook a single kelted fish nor did i see any hooked  ::) the reason the river is closed above the crossing bridge is because that is where the majority of spawning fish will be located. I also make sure to use hooks large enough that the smolts cant grab hold of them, they can pluck at the flies as much as they want and believe me they do but i havent hooked one yet fair of fouled.

thank you for the updates Chris  ;D



HOOK - wonders if Dennis T ever has anything positive to say  :-\
Dont fish the Vedd during fly season only. I think it should be closed to everyone,period.A hook is a hook wether a fly is attached to it or a pc of bait.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: Sandman on May 14, 2012, 09:11:54 PM
Dont fish the Vedd during fly season only. I think it should be closed to everyone,period.A hook is a hook wether a fly is attached to it or a pc of bait.

Yeah, I am going to have to disagree.  Post release mortality is an order of magnitude greater with scented baits, even artificial ones, than artificial flies.

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwildlife.state.co.us%2FSiteCollectionDocuments%2FDOW%2FResearch%2FAquatic%2Fpdf%2FPostreleasemortality.pdf&ei=ctSxT_GHDKOpiAKque2jBA&usg=AFQjCNH5udXRCAmioo_soaD33R4VHc9Zng&sig2=m7e6PoGqTqKG09nTlgc15Q (http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwildlife.state.co.us%2FSiteCollectionDocuments%2FDOW%2FResearch%2FAquatic%2Fpdf%2FPostreleasemortality.pdf&ei=ctSxT_GHDKOpiAKque2jBA&usg=AFQjCNH5udXRCAmioo_soaD33R4VHc9Zng&sig2=m7e6PoGqTqKG09nTlgc15Q)
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: kingpin on May 15, 2012, 12:05:59 AM
Yeah, I am going to have to disagree.  Post release mortality is an order of magnitude greater with scented baits, even artificial ones, than artificial flies.

http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwildlife.state.co.us%2FSiteCollectionDocuments%2FDOW%2FResearch%2FAquatic%2Fpdf%2FPostreleasemortality.pdf&ei=ctSxT_GHDKOpiAKque2jBA&usg=AFQjCNH5udXRCAmioo_soaD33R4VHc9Zng&sig2=m7e6PoGqTqKG09nTlgc15Q (http://www.google.ca/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CFwQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwildlife.state.co.us%2FSiteCollectionDocuments%2FDOW%2FResearch%2FAquatic%2Fpdf%2FPostreleasemortality.pdf&ei=ctSxT_GHDKOpiAKque2jBA&usg=AFQjCNH5udXRCAmioo_soaD33R4VHc9Zng&sig2=m7e6PoGqTqKG09nTlgc15Q)

and that study was done on trout using a #10 hook...not steelhead. #10 hook + bait = death.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on May 18, 2012, 08:27:38 PM
Water still fishable his AM when Lew and I had a boo.
Title: Re: 2011/12 Chilliwack River steelhead fishery information & water condition updates
Post by: chris gadsden on May 19, 2012, 11:36:37 AM
Still good today, saw 3 chaps in action this morning.