There are Chinook in Chile? That’s right! Some 30 years ago, Chinook salmon were raised and planted in a few river systems in Southern Chile. The stocks were taken from two Washington State rivers, the Kalama and Cowlitz, both tributaries of the Columbia River. Since then these strains have naturalized and flourished, now inhabiting more than ten watersheds. It only makes sense that these fish have thrived so well as the geography and climate of southern Chile is very similar to that of Oregon, Washington and British Columbia.
Over the past few years Chile West has been researching Chinook fisheries in Southern Chile. Our goal is to anticipate the beginning of the Chinook runs and catch them on flies fresh from the sea – ‘chromers’!
Since these fish are a spring run Chinook or ‘Springer’, they start their run in the spring and stay in the river until the fall to spawn. These fish tend to run deep and seek out the deepest of holes to rest until spawning time. It has been said that the spring Chinook is of the hardest to catch. In our research and experimentation, we have found this to be true, as we have not yet dialed in the techniques to catch them on flies during the first few months of the run. However, we have indeed caught them on hardware and so far, ‘pulling plugs’ has proven to be most effective.
These fish are indeed ‘chromers’ and totally un-blemished. Apparently Chinooks can get pretty darned comfortable in Southern Chile.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Those are really nice. Anectdotes around chinooks are the bigger they get the harder it is with a fly…not sure if its true however? How big a streamer did you throw at the Chile fish? Keep this story going, I would like to try it.
Klint,
In answer to your question about the size of the flies we were throwing at these Chinooks, well… We threw everything at them. All sizes, colors, shapes and all different sized sink tips, even a floating line! Just when we thought we weren't getting down deep enough. The fish would roll in close, almost behind us! We haven't given up. Season opens Saturday. I have a date with a certain river on Sunday.
Hi Chris, Any update on Chinooks on flies since the season opener?
Hey Klint,
To tell you the truth… I haven't had the chance to get out but once for the salmon. The weather has been poor and the rivers high plus it is quite a drive to the river of choice. This is where we first see the Kings. Although I ran into a friend who lives on the river and he hooked 4 and landed one but using spoons. Another report of salmon at 11 kilos and 14 but again not on flies.
The rivers in my area should be getting some salmon and as soon as the rivers drop i will get at it.
I'll keep you posted.