Late Fall/Winter Chinook in the Elk and Sixes Rivers – Better Late Than Never
Elk – Sixes 2019 Season
We spent more time waiting for rains, fish and the lifting of lower river closures than we did actually fishing for our late-run Fall/Winter Chinook on the Elk and Sixes Rivers. A squirt of rain arrived and ODFW finally lifted the lower river closures on Saturday, December 7. This would at least allow for a 3 week long Chinook fishery on the Sixes River which always closes to Chinook fishing on December 31. The rivers have unfortunately remained far lower than ideal since the lower river opening on December 7. Regardless, diligent anglers are picking up a few late arrivals as depicted in these photos.
On a recent guided trip we had several high moments, the funniest of which came right at the get go. As light was just barely rising on the horizon, I anchored the boat off the main run in about 18 inches of water It had been quite some time since my guest Francis had fished so he requested a quick refresher on the use of the level-wind reel. I showed him how to release the plug out the correct distance from the boat. I slid the rod into the rod holder but not 20 seconds later my Demo was rudely interrupted as the rod buried down to the water. Even though we hadn’t covered hook-setting and properly playing the fish, Francis stepped up and ultimately landed a nice Elk River
slab. We all had a good laugh. The question remains, w
as it skill, luck or an impeccable Demo? You be the judge. Meanwhile, lots of rain right now in the immediate forecast. Will the deluge bring in a final corresponding big push of salmon for Christmas? Time will tell……
