Sea-Run Cutthroat Fishing in the Fraser River Backchannel

 Best Time and Techniques for Sea-Run Cutthroat Fishing in the Fraser River Backchannel

The best time to fish for sea-run cutthroat in the Fraser River backchannel is when the salmon fry have just hatched and are swimming in the shallow waters. These cutthroat trout come from the ocean specifically to feed on these tiny salmon fry. Thus, I strongly recommend using a salmon fry imitation as your lure—mimicking these small fish.

When fishing in the backchannel, the best conditions occur when the tide is low. At low tide, the fish gather in deeper pools, making them easier to access. For the best fly fishing setup, I recommend two types of lines: first, a floating line that attaches directly to the leader and fly; second, a floating sink tip line for deeper pools. The best bait is a salmon fry—just like I showed you in the video, you can tie them on hooks size 8, 10, or 12. I suggest a 6-pound fluorocarbon leader; when using a full float line, a longer leader around 10 feet is best, and when using a floating sink tip, a 9-foot leader is ideal.

A key factor is also visibility. When the fish are rising, you can see them on the surface, which helps you pinpoint your exact location. Keep in mind that the backchannels of the Fraser River are often very muddy, so always wear waders, since your foot might slip in the mud.

In summary, by targeting the salmon fry period, using the correct fly gear, and staying safe with waders, you will have the best chance of success in this fishery.