Rainbow Trout in Hokkaido
This time, we’d like to introduce one of Hokkaido’s most popular game fish—the rainbow trout.
Rainbow trout can be targeted from April (spring) through December (early winter) in Hokkaido. These months are intended as a general guideline for guests joining our guided trips, as conditions vary depending on weather, river levels, and each season.
For beginners, we recommend visiting between June and October. During this period, insect hatches are at their peak, making rainbow trout more active and easier to catch on dry flies. The experience often reminds anglers of New Zealand during January and February, when dry fly fishing is at its best.
Personally, I enjoy targeting rainbow trout with Spey casting. For experienced fly fishers, I especially recommend April to June and mid-October through November. While fishing during these periods can be more technical, they also offer the best opportunity to catch truly large wild rainbow trout.
One important thing to keep in mind is the spring snowmelt. From late April to early May, melting snow often causes rivers to rise dramatically and become unfishable. Always check current river conditions before planning your trip.
Whether you’re looking for your first rainbow trout or chasing the fish of a lifetime, Hokkaido offers one of the finest wild trout fly fishing experiences in the world.
