THE ELUSIVE APEX PREDATOR OF JAPAN'S WILD NORTHERN RIVERS... BY 'BANG AVERAGE FISHING'
Where do I start with the Japanese Huchen? An elusive salmonid that is as powerful and strong as Salmon and as aggressive as a Pike or a barracuda! These fish are the apex predator of the rivers here in Northern Japan, but sadly due to increased water temperatures, dam's and fishing pressure over the years their numbers have dropped significantly. However, they are still alive and still fighting! These beasts won't give up without a fight!
The Northern reaches of Hokkaido (Northern Japan) still hold a stable population, but further South on the island the numbers are at their lowest with the odd capture every now and then! Luckily that every now and then happened to me, and we managed to nail one of these elusive predators!
Albeit this huchen is a juvenile, probably 2-3 years old which hasn't remotely hit maturity, still made me jump for joy! Caught using the telescopic Rigged and Ready Fish Rig 180, on a spearhead Ryuki in blue. A fish I had always dreamt of encountering following failed attempts in Slovenia!
It was great to see this fish swim off back into the river and hopefully repopulate the river some day! He may have many obstacles to come but hopefully the Bang Average touch helps navigate this fish to years of prosperity! Pretty soft I know, but these fish are a true wonder. If you want to watch the video on YouTube, click here!
Fancy catching one of these beasts? Japanese Adventures has Huchen guides in the North of Hokkaido who can help you catch this boys Daddy! Get in touch via japanesefishingadventures@gmail.com and we will do everything we can to make your Huchen fantasies come true.
If you want to know more about fishing in japan check out japanesefishingadventures.com for fishing guides across the whole country!
