Current Sport Fishing Report
September 30, 2009
Summary for 2009 fishing season
The 2009 fishing season in Juneau was at or near the 10 year average for effort for all species sampled by the creel survey. The total rodhours recorded by the creel survey for 2009 were 45,172 and the 10 year average (99-08) was 45,364. The total bottomfish rodhours for 2009 were 10,631 and the ten year average (99-08) was 9,781. The total salmon rodhours recorded for Juneau were 35,541 and the ten year average (99-08) was 35,533. The harvest rates for individual species can be seen in table form in the following link Harvest/Effort Statistics . Overall the fishing season this summer was complimented by lots of sunshine and good weather and made for pleasurable days to be on the water.
As winter time sets in around Juneau, most anglers take a few months off and prepare for the upcoming spring and summer season. However, limited angling opportunities still exist during the winter months. Any pond or lake that will normally hold trout and salmon in the summer months should contain some “over-wintering” trout and Dolly Varden. The water will need to be deep enough to stay unfrozen and provide enough room for the fish for the entire winter. Ice fishing is typically done with light tackle and with the use of an “auger” to open a hole in the ice. Remember most lakes in the Juneau area are off limits to the use of bait, be sure to check the regulations after selecting a place to fish. Salmon Creek Reservoir and Twin Lakes are two exceptions and are open to the use of bait year round. It’s always a good idea to check the local weather conditions and get the “okay” before heading onto the ice. Be safe and have fun.
Typically sometime in March, the ice will begin to break up around the edges of lakes and opportunities will again become available along the ice lines. Small spoons or wet flies will work on trout and Dolly Varden as they prepare to either stay in their freshwater system or make the summer trip to the salt water buffet. Early mornings and late evenings in open pockets where ice is melting can be productive from shore, or kicking a float tube along an ice line is another option.
