Mack Attack Magazine

Springers aren’t just any salmon; they’re the pinnacle of Pacific Northwest angling. These fish are notoriously difficult to catch, not only because of their incredible strength and stamina but also due to their finicky nature. Success in this fishery belongs to those who are well-equipped and meticulously prepared.

As I look back on previous years, the takeaway is how important every detail of my set up is, more so than other times of the year. Let me begin with the rod and reel set up. We often troll for spring chinook above Bonneville Dam, in places like Drano Lake and the Wind River. These fisheries have primarily become what we call “360 fisheries”. Flasher Fishing, using flashers with agitator fins, has revolutionized salmon fishing. These flashers create an aggressive rotation that imparts erratic action to your bait or lure, triggering strikes from even the most reluctant springers.

The ScentFlash UV Paddle Flasher has become a top choice for attracting spring chinook due to its scent release system, high visibility, and adaptability in spring water conditions. It works particularly well with the cautious feeding behavior of springers.

Fishing 360 rotating flashers requires a heavy action rod that can handle up to 16 ounces of lead. I personally outfit my boat with the Okuma Guide Select Classic rods. They’re soft, durable, have plenty of backbone, and receive the thump of your flasher rotation extremely well.