To be honest this thread bothers me - the Fraser goonfest is becoming almost too much too handle for this local. That being said, there are a couple things of note that will make it easier for all of us, fish included:

- Use heavy gear, this is a meat fishery and you ARE snagging fish. Please do not use leaders under 15#s, there is enough line in the river already. I recommend 25# leaders. They allow you to handline (with a glove) and release sockeye quickly and they put you in a good position to land the big spings that are invariably flossed.

- Please do not catch and release sockeye all day. Water temps are high and these fish have a long journey. Mortality is estimated at 5-10% - a 75 fish day means you killed 7 - 10 fish. There is no pride in hooking (snagging) 75 sockeye. If you've klunked your two sockeye, toss out the bar rods and plunk for springs. Better yet

- 60 - 80# anchor with 10 feet of chain is standard

- Watch out for submerged Indian nets, they'll stop you dead

- Bring a sounder and find your own piece of water, most of the really busy bars are due to the guys in little tubs with prop driven boats that have a limited range.

- Most importantly, leave some money up north. The strong American dollar makes buying goods and services in Canada a bargain. Gas up your boat/truck and buy some gear locally. Stay a night in Chilliwack or Abbotsford. Consider hiring a local guide (send me a PM for some referals) for a great day on the water, you will gain invaluable local knowledge, and have a great shot at landing 2 socks, a spring and a 6-10' sturgeon all in the same day.