Fishing for Kokanee
Identification, habitat, techniques, and tackle—then find a captain who targets them.
Kokanee (Oncorhynchus nerka) are the landlocked form of sockeye salmon and are generally smaller than their anadromous relatives. Adults typically run 8–16 inches and 0.5–3 pounds, with a
Kokanee inhabit lakes, reservoirs and some river systems across the Pacific Northwest, western Canada, parts of the Rockies and many introduced inland waters including portions of the Great Lakes.
Target kokanee by locating schools on sonar or following plankton layers and temperature breaks. Trolling with small spoons, hoochies or flasher-and-bait rigs is extremely effective; vary depth until
Use light to medium-light rods in the 6–7 foot range with a soft tip to feel gentle bites. Line choices are 4–8 lb braid or 6–10 lb monofilament; a short fluorocarbon leader (4–8 lb) helps with
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Captains Who Target Kokanee
No captains in our directory currently list kokanee as a species they target. Browse all captains to find someone who might target it, or check back later as our network grows.