FISHING FISHING

produce strikes. Metallic colors such as silver, gold and even copper can produce limits as well, so don’t be afraid to experiment with various shades. Typically, use brighter colors during sunny days and more muted colors during overcast days. Each lake seems to have a certain color or color combo that works better than others.

One other factor that we have found useful is contrast. Often, if a plain pink or orange color is not working, we change it up with two different, sometimes opposing colors. Think pink and purple, orange and black, orange and chartreuse, chartreuse and purple, black and white, gold and silver, etc. These contrasting colors can trigger a strike, but when in doubt, start with pink and experiment from there.

Kokanee are not leader-shy, so a 10- to 15-pound-test mono leader is standard. A good rule of thumb for leader length between dodger and lure is two to two and a half times the dodger length – usually 8 to 24 inches long. Use shorter leaders for lures that don’t have their own action, like hoochies, and longer leaders for spinners and spoons.

Time of year also can dictate leader length. The colder the water, the less aggressive the fish, so use a little longer leader so that not as much action will be imparted on the lure by the dodger. Size 4 and 2 hooks are common, depending on the size of the fish you are targeting; the typical kokanee hook is a size 4 octopus.

GIVEN THEIR ACROBATICS and very soft mouths, using a slow, steady retrieve with a light rod and a reel with a light drag will help you land more fish. For their size, kokanee can put up a very good fight. Be patient; losing fish near the boat is part of kokanee fishing. This is where a long-handled net can prove invaluable. Get one with rubber netting to help prevent hooks from getting tangled and hooked in the net.

Kokanee can be fished for yearround, although most anglers target them from April through August. Check your state’s fishing regs for seasons, limits and any additional restrictions on the lake you plan to fish. Each lake is unique, and regulations on season, limits, legal fishing hours and even allowable bait can change, so make sure to check before heading out. Fishing regulations can be found at most sporting goods stores or by going online to your state’s fish agency. Tight lines and fish on! NS

Editor’s note: Tom Schnell is an avid outdoorsman who lives with his wife Rhonna in Central Oregon. He is the secretary of the Kokanee Power of Oregon board and a past local Ducks Unlimited and Oregon Hunters Association president.