Oregon Spring Chinook Salmon
Well it is officially spring here in Oregon, complete with our usual mix of hail, wind, rain, and the occasional sunny day. But along with all this inclement weather we here in this neck of the woods have one very bright, tasty, silver lining to all the dark grey skies: The Spring Chinook Salmon. These fish are making their way up rivers all across the state as we speak. The Spring Chinook is a very special fish, dear to the hearts of fishermen throughout the northwest. Springer’s, as they are affectionately nicknamed, travel up the rivers throughout the region on their way to seek out their spawning grounds at the upper reaches of the rivers systems they inhabit. Like fall Chinook, which return to their native streams in September and October, springers spawn in the fall. But as their name implies, they return to rivers in the spring, and hold out in the upper reaches of the rivers until spawning time comes. Because of this long and
arduous journey, springers have more fat and oil content than any of their counterparts. These reserves help them stay nourished for the 4-6 months needed for them to stay in the river before they spawn. This extra fat and oil makes the meat of the Spring Chinook especially rich and delicious. They are regarded as one of the finest eating fishes in the world. A fresh Spring Chinook filet is a true culinary delight.
Springers are targeted by fisherman primarily as they make their way upstream to their spawning grounds. Many rivers in Oregon host fishable returns of these great fish. The Rogue in Southern Oregon is legendary for the size and number of these great fish available to fisherman from both bank and boat. Heading north, The Umpqua is another stellar producer. The Tillamook bay streams are always productive. The giant Columbia River on the state’s northern border kicks out the greatest numbers of fish destined to their home streams in Washington, Idaho, and Eastern Oregon. In fact, fisheries managers are predicting the biggest run of springers since 1938 in the Columbia with an expected return of 470,000 adults! A portion of these fish heading up the Columbia will turn up the Willamette River at Portland, heading for their natal streams in the heart of the Willamette Valley. It is quite amazing that you can catch springers right in the
heart of Portland, a huge metro city. The fish heading up the Willamette are headed for four rivers: The North and South Santiam, Middle Fork Willamette, and Mckenie. The latter two are our home rivers for us here at Baker’s. These great fish will be here by the end of April, and salmon fever locally will begin in earnest.
Springers respond best to bait, and a variety of methods will entice these often finicky fish. Backbouncing eggs or sandshrimp is a popular technique employed by the many fishing guides who have based their business in this area. Also, diver and bait, or eggs and shrimp under a bobber account for many a fish. With the great numbers anticipated this year, why not get out and catch one of these very special fish. The first bite of a springer hot off the grill will make you glad you did. Written by Josh W. Carr.