The Kilchis opened for fall Chinook on Aug. 1 and for catch-and-release chum salmon fishing on Sept. 16. It’s still a little early for both of these runs on the Kilchis, but with the recent rains there should be a few Chinook sneaking in, although this fishery really won’t heat up until we get good rains and the river comes up. Bobber fishing bait, back-bouncing, back-trolling plugs or divers and bait, or casting spinners can all be effective methods.

While technically open, chum salmon won’t show up until late October, usually. Early November will be the best time to target this catch-and-release fishery. In addition to the other techniques mentioned, chum will hit jigs and flies if presented well.

Trout season is open, and there should be some nice cutthroat around. Sea-run cutthroat should be entering the lower river now, too. Remember, the limit is two per day over 8-inches, and bait is now allowed.