Dawn’s Aquatic Fireworks
As the sun’s first rays painted the eastern sky in hues of orange, an extraordinary aquatic display unfolded 10 miles east of Oak Creek on Lake Michigan. The stars of this early morning show were not celestial bodies, but silver salmon, also known as coho, creating a mesmerizing ballet of splashes and flashes that rivaled any fireworks display.
The Thrill of the Catch
Steve Rusteberg’s 21-foot boat became the stage for an impromptu fishing frenzy. As lines danced with life, the crew – including Scott Kelly of Big Bend – engaged in a synchronized performance of reeling, netting, and unhooking. The rapid-fire action culminated in landing four silver salmon simultaneously, prompting Rusteberg to exclaim, “Hit the jackpot!” This flurry of activity exemplifies why silver salmon have earned a prized reputation among Lake Michigan anglers.
A Springtime Tradition
The annual “run” of coho salmon along Wisconsin’s Lake Michigan coastline is a cherished springtime event. Beginning typically in Kenosha during March or April, this piscatorial parade progresses northward, delighting anglers in Racine, Milwaukee, and beyond. The coho’s aggressive nature and willingness to strike make them a favorite among fishermen, offering an exciting and often fruitful fishing experience.
More Than Just a Fish
For many, including the author, coho salmon represent more than just a catch – they embody the spirit of Lake Michigan’s spring awakening. Their smaller size compared to other salmon species makes them versatile for various culinary preparations, from grilling to smoking. This accessibility, combined with their fighting spirit, cements their status as a beloved game fish.
A Conservation Success Story
The presence of coho salmon in Lake Michigan is a testament to one of the greatest fisheries management successes of the 20th century. Introduced in the 1960s along with other Pacific salmon species, these fish helped address ecological imbalances caused by invasive species and created a world-class fishery. Today, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources maintains this thriving ecosystem through carefully managed stocking programs.
The Art and Science of Salmon Fishing
Successful coho fishing blends traditional angling skills with modern technology. Rusteberg’s approach, using a combination of downriggers and planer boards to present lures at various depths, demonstrates the technical aspect of targeting these fish. The use of classic setups like dodgers and flies alongside modern “meat rigs” showcases the evolution of salmon fishing techniques on the Great Lakes.
A Community United by Silver
The story of Rusteberg and Kelly, who forged a friendship through an online fishing forum, illustrates how the pursuit of coho salmon builds connections within the angling community. Their shared passion for early morning adventures on Lake Michigan exemplifies the camaraderie that exists among dedicated fishermen.
The Cycle Continues
As the crew reached their limit of 15 fish by 8:30 AM, they embodied the satisfaction of a successful outing and the responsibility of conservation. Their experience on “Route 55” off Oak Creek highlights the cyclical nature of the coho run and the importance of understanding fish behavior and migration patterns.
This annual spring revelry of silver salmon on Lake Michigan is more than just a fishing trip; it’s a celebration of nature’s rhythms, conservation efforts, and the enduring appeal of the pursuit. As anglers return to shore with their prized catch, they carry with them not just fish, but memories of silver-scaled symphonies performed on the vast stage of Lake Michigan.
