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Complete Guide to Mountain Stream Fishing in Hokkaido|Recommended points, times of year, and tips for choosing lures

北海道 渓流釣り

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Complete Guide to Mountain Stream Fishing in Hokkaido

北海道 渓流釣り

Hokkaido is blessed with vast land and abundant clear water,One of the best mountain stream fishing destinations in JapanIt's ☆.

Rainbow trout, landlocked salmon, iwana (Salvelinus leucomaenis), and American trout (Oncorhynchus masou rhodurus).Popular mountain stream fish inhabitSh,Attracts both beginners and expertsI will do so.

This article provides a thorough explanation of recommended mountain stream fishing spots in Hokkaido, how to enjoy each season, and rules and etiquette for beginners!

For those who...
Beginners who want to start fishing with confidence.
For those who want to enjoy authentic mountain stream fishing and nature experience in Hokkaido
For those who want to understand correctly the rules of fishing in Hokkaido and the closed season for fishing.
Those who want to experience fishing safely by using fishing tours and local guides.
To know the best season for mountain stream fishing in Hokkaido and recommended lures.

Hokkaido "Activities
Click here for recommended tour ranking

 

Mountain Stream Fishing in Hokkaido
Recommendations

北海道 渓流

Although there are countless mountain streams throughout Hokkaido,Characteristics of each areaThere are

Knowing the accessibility and the different species of fish will make your fishing experience more personalized.

 

Popular mountain stream fishing area
Features of Central Do, East Do, South Do and North Do

北海道 渓流釣り 釣り人

Mountain stream fishing in Hokkaido is largely divided into "Central Hokkaido, East Hokkaido, South Hokkaido, and North Hokkaido.

Dao is close to SapporoSuitable for beginners due to easy access.

East Hokkaido isNature and Big FishThe south of the province isWarm temperatures allow fishing from early springThe northern part of the province isQuiet fishing with few peopleYou can enjoy

 

Chitose River and Lake Shikotsu Area
Excellent accessibility and recommended for beginners.

北海道 支笏湖 釣り人

The Chitose River and Lake Shikotsu area is within a 30-minute drive from New Chitose Airport,A popular area for both sightseeing and fishing.

Many landlocked salmon and rainbow trout,Great for practicing lure fishing.'It's good to be here'

Especially in the inflow rivers of Lake Shikotsu, large American trout can be targeted,Beginners and intermediates alike can enjoy

▼RecommendedClick here ▼ for Lake Shikotsuko Tour

 

Tokachi River and Kushiro River Area
Popular spot for big landlocked salmon and rainbow trout.

北海道 釧路川 カヌー

Tokachi River and Kushiro River in East Hokkaido are,One of Hokkaido's best big game fields.

Rainbow trout were especially large, with some individuals exceeding 60 cm in size.

Because of the good water quality and calm flow of many tributaries,Ideal for fly fishingIt is.

Combined canoeing and fishing tours are also popular.

 

Fishing in mountain streams in Hokkaido
Typical mountain stream fish

北海道 渓流釣り ヤマメ

In the mountain streams of Hokkaido,Mountain trout, char, and rainbow trout active since early springwill be.

Amemasu prefers cold water.They are often seen in the Kushiro River and Shiretoko area.

Because fish species tend to vary by region,Gathering information in advance is the key to better fishing results.It is.

 

dragonfly nymph

北海道 渓流釣り ヤマメ

A beautiful mountain stream fish with a silvery-white body lined with parr markings (small oval pattern).

In Hokkaido, the roadAbundant in clear streams at relatively low elevations in southern to central HokkaidoI am doing this!

In summer, morning and evening dim light hours are more active.Many release groups in theUse of a net is recommended to avoid damaging the beautiful fish body.'It's good to be here'

Fishing method and recommended lures
◆ Twitching small minnows (4-6 cm) is standard.
A slender spoon (2-4 g) is also effective.
During bright hours, they often lurk behind rocks or under fallen trees, so the trick is to target shady areas and drop-offs.


char (type of fish)

北海道 渓流釣り イワナ

Prefers cold water and is often found in headwaters and high elevation streams.

The body color changes shades depending on the environment and is characterized by white spots.

I am very curious about lures,This fish is easy to catch even for beginners.

Don't forget to take bear-proofing measures when fishing in the headwaters.

Fishing method and recommended lures
◆ Spoons with a strong water push (3-5g) are the best choice.
◆They often lurk in the depths by the stream center or under fallen trees, and the trick is to run the lure slowly.
◆Easily active after rain or on cloudy days

 

rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)

北海道 渓流釣り ニジマス

Rainbow trout are found in Lake Shikotsu, Chitose River, etc.An invasive species that has become established throughout Hokkaido.

The size of the fish is also large, with 40- to 60-cm class fish not uncommon.

It's so slippery.The trick is to change the color of the lure frequently.

Both released and established individuals are present.Because of the,It can be targeted throughout the season!

Fishing method and recommended lures
◆ Spoons with a strong water push (3-5g) are the best choice.
◆They often lurk in the depths by the stream center or under fallen trees, and the trick is to run the lure slowly.
◆Easily active after rain or on cloudy days

 

Pacific ocean perch (Sebastes alutus)

北海道 渓流釣り アメマス

In the sea-descending form of char,They migrate upstream in spring and fall.

It is also famous for Lake Shikotsu and the lakes and coastal rivers of eastern Hokkaido.

Many of the sizes are large, exceeding 50 cm,A target coveted by trout fans.

They are highly active even during the cold season and can be targeted even in winter.

Since release is the basic method in many areas, barbless hooks are recommended.

Fishing method and recommended lures
◆ Spoons with a strong water push (3-5g) are the best choice.
◆They often lurk in the depths by the stream center or under fallen trees, and the trick is to run the lure slowly.
◆Easily active after rain or on cloudy days

 

The best time of year for mountain stream fishing in Hokkaido and
Seasonal Fun

北海道 渓流釣り 釣り人

HokkaidoThe mountain stream fishing season is mainly from April to October.

After a long winter, nature comes to life at once and fish are more active.

 

Spring to early summer (April to June)
Best season just after the snow melts.

北海道 早春の渓流

Snowmelt flows in,Spring, when the river volume increases, is the peak season for fish activity.It is.

Especially from late April to June.Ha,Fish that have finished spawning actively seek food and respond better to lures.

 

When the fish are more active and
Recommended Lures

北海道 渓流釣り ツアー

When the temperature difference between morning and evening is large,Aim during the day when the water temperature is stable.

Recommended lure is spoon typeIn,Fishing slowly into the current is effective.It is!

Silver and gold reflective lures respond well.

 

Summer - Autumn (July - October)
Stable season popular with beginners

北海道 夏場 渓流釣り

After summer, water temperatures stabilize and the range of fish activity expands.

Fishing in a mountain stream surrounded by greenery is a truly unique Hokkaido experience.

Landlocked salmon and rainbow trout are active again as fall approachesI will do so.

 

Choosing mountain stream fishing lures in Hokkaido and
Practical Techniques

北海道 渓流釣り ルアーの種類

In mountain stream fishing,The choice of lure and how you use it will greatly affect your fishing success.

The flow of water andIt is important to be creative with the type of fishIt is.

 

Easy to handle for beginners
Three recommended lures

北海道 渓流釣り 初心者ルアー

For beginners.Spoons, minnows, and spinners are recommended as they are easy to handle.'It's good to be here'

Each has different movements and uses, and should be used according to the reaction of the fish!

How to use and choose
◆spoon
Spoons are easy to handle for beginners and are a basic item for mountain streams.
The metal plates flutter and sway with the water flow, producing weak small fish and insects.
Characterized by "long throw performance and stability.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Effective in fast-flowing main currents and deep water.

◆minnow
Minnows are lures shaped like small fish and can be reeled (twitched or jerked) to produce realistic movements.
In clear water, where fish can easily see through the water, the trick is to make them use their mouths with "split-second movements.
A strong weapon when targeting landlocked salmon, rainbow trout, and other fish with good eyesightIt is.

◆Spinner
The spinners' spinning blades produce strong flashing and waves in the water, stimulating the fish's lateral line.
Powerful when visibility is poor, such as when the water is muddy, cloudy, or in the morning or evening.It is.
It is recommended for beginners because it works just by winding it with tension maintained.

 

How to move lures and catch fish

北海道 渓流釣り 釣竿

The way the lure is moved is varied depending on the situation, such as "just reeling," "twitch," and "drift.

Slow action in cold water season, fast action in warm seasonis the basis.

On cloudy or rainy daysNatural colors with low reflection are effectiveIt is.

In areas with fast currentsHeavier spoons that sink easily work well.I will do so.

 

for beginners
How to start Hokkaido mountain stream fishing and how to take advantage of tours

北海道 渓流釣り 

If you are trying mountain stream fishing for the first time, the first thing you need to do is get the right equipment,Take advantage of safe tours to experienceLet's do it.

Too light clothing is dangerous for mountain stream fishingIt is.

To walk along the riverside where the footing is poor,Waterproof and slip-resistant equipment is requiredIt is.

 

How to choose basic equipment such as fishing rods, reels, and waders

北海道 渓流釣り 釣竿

Lightweightspinning rodandSmall reel is basicThe following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.

Waders (body boots)is essential for both safety and comfort☆.

polarized glassesmakes it easier to see fish shadows in the water!

 

Attractions of Guided Hokkaido Mountain Stream Fishing Tours

北海道 渓流釣り 釣り人

For beginners.Guided tours are the safest and most reliable.

Experienced guides will carefully instruct you on everything from selecting fishing spots to lure operation.

Held in Sapporo, Furano, Kushiro, etc.Half-day to full-day tours that include rental equipment are popular.'It's good to be here'

When making reservations, it is a good idea to confirm "fishing insurance," "pick-up and drop-off" and "target species of fish.

 

Hokkaido mountain stream fishing rules and
Basic knowledge of the closed season for fishing

北海道 渓流釣り 禁漁区看板

In order to continue fishing in the rich natural environment of Hokkaido, it is essential to be aware of the rules and respect the environment.

The mountain streams of Hokkaido areThe closed season for fishing varies by region and species.

For more information.Hokkaido Inland Waters Fisheries Adjustment Regulations.Available atIt is.

 

What are the "prohibited areas" for river fishing in Hokkaido?
Unknowingly fishing is subject to penalties!

北海道 釣り 禁漁区

In Hokkaido, we are committed to preserving the beauty of nature."No Fishing Zone"and ... and"Protected water surface."are designated in various regions.

These areas are,Protection of fish reproduction, ecosystem maintenance, and water quality conservationThe purpose of this program is to provide a wide range of services, including the followingSigns and markings must be obeyed when in place.

The act of fishing itself may be prohibited, especially in the following places

Examples of major prohibited areas
◆Dam lakes, water intakes, and water supply sources
◆Salmon and trout spawning protection rivers
◆ Some rivers in national parks and nature reserves
◆Protected areas managed by specific fishery cooperatives

Fishing in areas where fishing is prohibited,Subject to fines for violationsIn some cases, it may be necessary to make a reservation in advance.Official websites of fishery cooperatives and Hokkaido GovernmentCheck the latest information at the following website before you go fishing!

 

Manners to be observed in mountain stream fishing and conservation of nature

北海道 渓流釣り 魚

Take out trash and clean up fishing spots.of course,It is also important to keep your distance from other anglersIt is.

To protect resourcesCatch and release."More and more anglers are practicing the

To avoid damaging the fish, handle it gently with wet hands and release it quickly.

 

Frequently asked questions about mountain stream fishing in Hokkaido
(FAQ)

よくある質問

Q. When can I enjoy mountain stream fishing in Hokkaido?
The general mountain stream fishing season is from April to October.
However, the lifting and ban periods vary depending on the river and species of fish.
For example, fishing for landlocked salmon and iwana may be prohibited from April 1 to the end of June, depending on the region.
On the other hand, some rivers, such as rainbow trout and American trout, can be fished year-round.
Before fishing, be sure to check the "Inland Waters Fisheries Adjustment Regulations" for each region or the guide of the fishing cooperative.
Q. Which area of Hokkaido do you recommend for beginners?

For access and safety reasons, the following areas are popular with beginners.
Chitose River and Lake Shikotsu Area (Central Hokkaido): Close to the airport and many tours with rental fishing equipment.
Lake Toya and Niseko area (Southern Hokkaido): A sightseeing field that offers both hot springs and fishing.
Furano and Biei area (Inland Hokkaido): Many nature experience tours are available and recommended for families.

Q. When is the best time to fish mountain streams?

Fish are most active in the early morning and evening when the light is dim.
Especially in summer, the best time to aim for 2-3 hours in the morning and evening to avoid rising water temperatures during the daytime.
In spring and fall, when water temperatures are cooler, fish tend to be more active during the daytime (around 10:00 to 15:00).

Q. Is it possible to encounter brown bears when mountain stream fishing in Hokkaido?

Yes, in some mountainous areas and headwaters of Hokkaido, brown bear habitat and mountain stream fishing spots overlap.
In particular, spring through fall (April through October) is the most active season, so be very careful when fishing.

<Points for brown bear control
Avoid going it alone.
Walking while making noise with a bear bell or radio
Do not leave food scraps or fishing bait on the spot.
If you find new footprints or feces, turn around quickly.

Because the risk of encountering them is particularly high in the East and North Hokkaido areas,
It is recommended to check the local fishing cooperative or tourist information center for the latest sightings.

 

summary

北海道 渓流釣り

For mountain stream fishing in Hokkaido,The charm of this area is its magnificent nature, variety of fish species, and beautiful scenery in each season.Â

A wide variety of spots and tours that even beginners can try with easeThe fishing area is a great place to experience the natural beauty of Hokkaido through fishing.

Please go out to find your own "best one" while observing manners and rules!

 

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