Coho Salmon Fishing in Puget Sound and Seattle

by | Jun 19, 2023 | Ocean Run Coho, Resident Coho

Coho salmon are a very popular target for anglers in Puget Sound, and for good reason. These fish are beautiful, delicious, and challenging to catch. They can be found in Puget Sound from early summer to late fall, and you can catch them throughout the summer and into the fall.

Where to Fish

There are many good places to fish for coho salmon in Puget Sound. Many people fish out of marinas in and around Seattle.  Some other popular spots include:

  • The San Juan Islands
  • The Strait of Juan de Fuca
  • The Hood Canal
  • The Elliott Bay
  • The Duwamish River

How to Fish for Coho

There are a variety of ways to fish for coho salmon in Puget Sound. Some popular methods include:

  • Trolling with bait or lures
  • Jigging with bait or lures
  • Drift fishing with bait or lures
  • Fly fishing

Trolling

Trolling is a popular method for fishing for coho salmon in Puget Sound. To troll, you will need a boat and a trolling motor. You will also need a variety of baits and lures, including herring, anchovies, and spoons.  One of the best ways to gain knowledge about fishing for Coho Salmon is to hire a Salmon Charter Captain to take you out.

When trolling for coho salmon, you will want to troll at a slow speed, typically 2-3 knots. You will also want to troll in areas where there is current, such as near the mouths of rivers or in channels.

Jigging

Jigging is another popular method for fishing for coho salmon in Puget Sound. To jig, you will need a fishing rod and reel with a weight on the end of the line. You will also need a variety of baits and lures, including herring, anchovies, and jigs.

When jigging for coho salmon, you will want to jigger at a slow speed, typically 1-2 knots. You will also want to jigger in areas where there is structure, such as pilings, rocks, and seaweed.

Drift Fishing

Drift fishing is a great way to fish for coho salmon in Puget Sound. To drift fish, you will need a boat and a drift sock. You will also need a variety of baits and lures, including herring, anchovies, and baitfish.

When drift fishing for coho salmon, you will want to drift in areas where there is current, such as near the mouths of rivers or in channels. You will also want to drift in areas where there is baitfish, as coho salmon are attracted to baitfish.

Fly Fishing

Fly fishing is a great way to fish for coho salmon in Puget Sound. To fly fish for coho salmon, you will need a fly rod and reel, as well as a variety of flies.

When fly fishing for coho salmon, you will want to fly fish in areas where there is current, such as near the mouths of rivers or in channels. You will also want to fly fish in areas where there is baitfish, as coho salmon are attracted to baitfish.

What to Bring

In addition to your fishing gear, there are a few other things you will want to bring with you when fishing for coho salmon in Puget Sound. These include:

  • A rain jacket
  • A hat
  • Sunscreen
  • A first-aid kit
  • A cooler
  • A fishing license

Tips

Here are a few tips for fishing for coho salmon in Puget Sound:

  • Fish early in the morning or late in the evening, when the fish are most active.
  • Use fresh bait or lures.
  • Fish in areas where there is current and baitfish.
  • Be patient. Coho salmon can be challenging to catch, but they are well worth the effort.

Conclusion

Coho salmon fishing in Puget Sound is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and catch some delicious fish. With a little planning and preparation, you can have a successful day on the water.