A completely landlocked population of Sockeye salmon is known as “Kokanee“, their name in the Okanagan language.

As youth, myself and Rockin’ Ronnie snorkeled with the Kokanee in Kokanee Creek. An amazing spectacle.

After spawning, the huge fish waste away and die. Unmindful of teenagers snorkeling beside them.

Here’s a salmon in death throes. (VIDEO)

Over the past couple of decades I’ve noticed fewer and fewer spawning Kokanee in that creek.

But the Gerrard rainbow trout are making a comeback in Kootenay Lake. I’m hopeful that conservation efforts are helping the Kokanee, as well.

Fingers crossed …

BC Gov – Viewing Opportunities