Landing Fish With Seals Around

Before I talk about anything regarding seals and fish, there’s a few things you need to know. Seals are not the reason fish numbers have declined in some areas. If everything is in balance in a river system, the impact of seals on salmon is minimal. When fish runs are in trouble because of habitat loss, human activity (dams, water draw downs, etc.) and poor ocean conditions, the impact of pinnipeds (seals and sea lions) is substantial. Every angler who fishes long enough on coastal rivers will lose a fish to a seal. It is very frustrating. Fall salmon are too difficult to catch to lose one to a seal. There’s a few things you can do to increase your odds of landing a hooked fish when seals are around.

Use Heavier Rods, Reels and Line
Fighting a fish is the most exciting part of salmon fishing, and its exhilarating when a fish makes several long runs. When a salmon runs, it increases the chances of a seal taking notice. Try to play the fish to the boat as quickly as possible. Using heavier rods, reels, and line allows you to control a fish better. I recommend using at least 25 lb. test leaders and 30 lb. test mainline.

Positioning Your Boat Gives You An Advantage
If seals are in the area, try motoring toward a hooked fish. Close the distance between the boat and the fish as much as possible. The angler with the fish on the line will need to reel like crazy to keep pressure on the fish. The boat will help to scare a seal away from the fish.

Wait Until The Last Minute to Show Your Net
If seals can be trained to balance a beach ball on their noses and blow a horn at the circus, you’d better believe they know what a net in someone’s hands means! These critters are very smart, and raising a net is like ringing the dinner bell. Try to remain calm (tough with a fish on) and wait until the last minute to break the net out. Even better is fighting a fish sitting down, where you just look like another angler to a seal.

A Word Of Caution
It is illegal to haze seals in any way. This means no paintball guns, wrist rockets, M-80s, or the like. Hazing seals is a Class A Misdemeanor and can be punishable by a large fine, jail time or both. The next time you’re out and see some seals, be thankful. The seals follow the fish and you know you’re fishing in the right spot.

See you on the water,
Action Jackson

(Please send comments or questions to Action Jackson at 268-6944 or www.actionjacksonfishing.com)