08-19-2010, 04:49 PM
Was up there a couple weeks back, and saw quite a number of bulls caught. My report led to a bit of controversy in the discussion that ensued. Specifically regarding the handling and release of Bull Trout. I've learned they are relatives of the Dolly Varden. Some impressive fish no doubt!
Quite wily too - salmon eggs, or roe seemed the hot ticket. I found they went for a single egg on a single hook, well disguised. Had tried a triple hook with three eggs - rainbows jumped on that. But figured the Bulls would be safer with a single hook - plus they seemed more inclined to hit a single. They'd probably hit an egg pattern fly, but they seemed to search the bottom more than rising. Though there was a lot of jumping going on- 'specially around sunset.
Did you SEE all the Bulls hunkering on the bottom? I was in waders, and with polarized lenses - saw lots of big dark bulls just out from the dropoff. Seemed a whole school of them hung out just south of the inlet water. Such a dramatic change in temp where the river comes in - very 'zonal'.
So Fish-n-Game helped you measure the fish out of water? Most of the controversy surrounded whether a bull-trout can be lifted out of the water prior to release. I have a query into Idaho DWR asking that specific question, no answer yet. But if they were RIGHT there and helping . . . did he offer to take your picture with it?
Glad you had a good trip. That is truly some gorgeous country! And some great fishing to be had!
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Quite wily too - salmon eggs, or roe seemed the hot ticket. I found they went for a single egg on a single hook, well disguised. Had tried a triple hook with three eggs - rainbows jumped on that. But figured the Bulls would be safer with a single hook - plus they seemed more inclined to hit a single. They'd probably hit an egg pattern fly, but they seemed to search the bottom more than rising. Though there was a lot of jumping going on- 'specially around sunset.
Did you SEE all the Bulls hunkering on the bottom? I was in waders, and with polarized lenses - saw lots of big dark bulls just out from the dropoff. Seemed a whole school of them hung out just south of the inlet water. Such a dramatic change in temp where the river comes in - very 'zonal'.
So Fish-n-Game helped you measure the fish out of water? Most of the controversy surrounded whether a bull-trout can be lifted out of the water prior to release. I have a query into Idaho DWR asking that specific question, no answer yet. But if they were RIGHT there and helping . . . did he offer to take your picture with it?
Glad you had a good trip. That is truly some gorgeous country! And some great fishing to be had!
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