The Thrilling Pursuit of Giant Cherry Salmon in Hokkaido

In anticipation of the upcoming episode of THE Fishing, airing on May 9, 2026, we delve into the captivating world of fishing for the cherry salmon, known as sakura masu, in the breathtaking natural landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan. This episode is particularly exciting as it showcases expert angler Hiroyuki Sato, who has dedicated over 30 years to mastering the art of cherry salmon fishing.

A Glimpse into Cherry Salmon Fishing

Cherry salmon, scientifically recognized as the ocean-going form of the Yamame trout, are born in freshwater streams before migrating to the ocean. Once in the rich marine environment, they grow significantly in size and eventually return to their birthplace to spawn. This remarkable lifecycle sets the stage for the cherry salmon fishing adventure. However, in Hokkaido, regulations prohibit fishing for salmon and trout in rivers before they return to spawn, which means that anglers must take their chances in the ocean where the cherry salmon reside before their upstream journey begins.

A Journey to the Fishing Grounds

Hiroyuki Sato, whose love for cherry salmon fishing shines through in every cast, begins his adventure on the rocky shores of the Kumakishi area on the Oshima Peninsula. As the sun begins to set, he prepares for a thrilling session of fishing. "I can see them chasing my lure already!" he exclaims, brimming with excitement. Minutes into the fishing expedition, the tension builds as he feels a bite.

"I got one! This must be a cherry salmon!" Sato shouts with enthusiasm. Within just 30 minutes of starting, he hauls in a breathtakingly beautiful fish, its silver scales shining in the fading light—his target has been successfully caught!

The Thrill of the Catch

But the excitement doesn't stop there. Moments later, Sato feels a much stronger tug on his line. "This one feels huge!" he shouts as the reel begins to sing and the rod bends dramatically under the strain of the fish. The battle between man and fish unfolds against the stunning backdrop of Hokkaido's vast scenery, capturing the sheer thrill and allure of cherry salmon fishing in this majestic region.

As we join Sato in this breathtaking quest, viewers can expect not just a fishing show but an emotional journey that showcases the beauty of nature and the thrill of pursuing one of Hokkaido's most prized catches. With Hiroyuki Sato at the helm, this episode promises an exhilarating viewing experience that captures the essence of angling in Japan's serene yet unpredictable wilderness.

Catch all the action on May 9, 2026, from 5:30 PM to 6:00 PM on TV Osaka and affiliated networks, including TV Tokyo, TV Aichi, and more. Don't miss out on the excitement as the giant cherry salmon bloom in Hokkaido!