Located in Hokkaido, Lake Kussharo is one of Japan's most enchanting fly fishing destinations. As the largest caldera lake in the country, it offers a unique fly fishing experience with its pristine waters, diverse fish species, and stunning natural surroundings. In this blog post, we’ll dive into what makes Lake Kussharo a must-visit location, the best times to fish, techniques to use, and some insider tips to enhance your trip.
1. Why Fish at Lake Kussharo?
Lake Kussharo is known for its incredible biodiversity and abundant fish populations, making it a dream location for fly anglers. Surrounded by rugged mountains, the lake's unspoiled beauty provides a serene backdrop that enhances the overall experience.
Species Variety: The lake is home to rainbow trout, white-spotted char (Iwana), and landlocked sockeye salmon (Kokanee). The large population of rainbow trout, some reaching over 20 inches, is the primary draw for many anglers.
Clear Waters: The crystal-clear waters of the lake make for excellent sight fishing, allowing anglers to spot fish before casting.
Remote Wilderness: The remote location of the lake offers a more tranquil experience, with fewer crowds and a deep sense of connection with nature.
2. Best Time to Fly Fish at Lake Kussharo
Fly fishing at Lake Kussharo is possible from spring through fall, but each season brings its own challenges and rewards:
Spring (April to June):
Spring is a fantastic time to target rainbow trout, which are actively feeding after winter.
May and June are particularly productive, as the fish become more aggressive due to the warmer water and abundant insect hatches.
Flies to Use: During this time, emergers, caddis, and mayfly patterns work well. Streamers are also effective for targeting larger trout in deeper water.
Summer (July to August):
Summer brings warmer temperatures and clearer water, making sight fishing an exciting option.
Mornings and evenings are the best times to fish, as fish become more active during cooler hours.
Terrestrial patterns, such as hoppers, ants, and beetles, are highly effective as fish feed on insects that land on the water surface.
Fall (September to October):
Fall is another excellent season, especially for larger trout and char.
The fish are more aggressive as they prepare for winter, making streamer and nymph fishing highly effective.
The changing foliage around the lake adds to the experience, creating a picturesque autumn backdrop.
3. Fly Fishing Techniques for Lake Kussharo
Here’s a breakdown of the most effective fly fishing techniques to use at Lake Kussharo:
Dry Fly Fishing:
Dry fly fishing is a popular technique here, especially during early summer when the insect activity is at its peak.
Look for rising trout near weed beds, submerged structures, or shallow bays.
Flies like Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, and Griffith's Gnat work well during these hatches.
Nymphing:
Nymphing can be productive throughout the year, particularly in deeper sections of the lake.
Use Prince Nymphs, Hare’s Ear, or Pheasant Tail nymphs on a longer leader for deeper presentations.
Adjust your depth using an indicator to keep the nymphs in the strike zone, especially during midday when fish move to cooler, deeper waters.
Streamer Fishing:
Streamer fishing is especially effective during early spring and fall when trout are more aggressive.
Patterns like Woolly Buggers, Zonkers, and Clouser Minnows work well for targeting larger fish near drop-offs and deeper sections of the lake.
Use a sink-tip line to get the streamer down to the right depth, especially in deeper areas.
Sight Fishing:
The clear waters of Lake Kussharo allow for sight fishing, which adds an extra layer of excitement.
Use polarized sunglasses to spot fish and target them with accurate casts.
Be stealthy in your approach to avoid spooking fish, particularly in shallower areas where they are more cautious.
4. Fly Recommendations for Lake Kussharo
Here’s a selection of flies that are proven to work well in Lake Kussharo’s waters:
Dry Flies: Parachute Adams, Elk Hair Caddis, Griffith’s Gnat, and Blue Wing Olive
Nymphs: Prince Nymph, Pheasant Tail, Hare’s Ear, Copper John
Streamers: Woolly Bugger (black, olive), Zonker (white, olive), Clouser Minnow (chartreuse, white)
Terrestrials: Hopper patterns, Beetle patterns, Ant patterns
5. Access Points and Regulations
Lake Kussharo offers several access points that are ideal for fly anglers. Here’s what you need to know:
Accessible Areas:
Tsubetsu Pass Area: Offers good access to deeper sections of the lake, making it ideal for both wading and fishing from boats or float tubes.
Kotan Onsen Area: This popular spot is close to the hot springs, where you can find both trout and char. Be cautious around thermal areas and ensure you are fishing in permitted zones.
Wading Points: There are many areas along the shoreline where wading is possible, providing excellent access to productive fishing spots. Be mindful of deeper drop-offs.
Fishing Regulations:
Licensing: Ensure you have a valid Japanese fishing license, which can be obtained at local fishing shops or through a licensed guide service.
Catch-and-Release: Practicing catch-and-release is highly encouraged to maintain healthy fish populations.
Barbless Hooks: Using barbless hooks is recommended to minimize damage to the fish and make for easier releases.
6. Insider Tips for Fishing Lake Kussharo
To make the most of your fly fishing trip to Lake Kussharo, consider these additional tips:
Hire a Local Guide: Hiring a guide familiar with the lake can greatly enhance your success, especially if it’s your first time fishing in Japan. They can provide valuable insights about local patterns, techniques, and regulations.
Be Prepared for Changing Weather: The weather in Hokkaido can change rapidly, so pack layers and be ready for sudden wind or rain.
Try Float Tubing: If you want to explore the deeper parts of the lake, consider using a float tube or small inflatable boat. It provides better access to fish-holding areas and offers a unique perspective of the lake.
Bring a Variety of Flies: Fish at Lake Kussharo can be selective, so having a diverse fly selection can increase your chances of success, especially during challenging conditions.
Conclusion: A Unique Fly Fishing Experience
Lake Kussharo offers a fly fishing experience that combines scenic beauty, diverse fish species, and exciting angling opportunities. Whether you’re chasing rainbow trout with dry flies in the summer or swinging streamers for big fish in the fall, the lake has something for every fly angler.
The tranquil surroundings, clear waters, and stunning views make every moment memorable, whether you’re landing a trophy trout or simply enjoying the serenity of the lake. So, if you’re planning a fly fishing trip to Japan, make sure Lake Kussharo is at the top of your list—you won’t be disappointed.
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