Seattle is a world-renowned destination for salmon fishing. With its proximity to Puget Sound and the Pacific Ocean, the city offers anglers access to a wide variety of salmon species.
Salmon can be found in Puget Sound 12 months out of the year but fishing for Salmon is highly regulated based on the species of Salmon, how abundant the runs are and where you want to fish for them.
If you are visiting Seattle the best way to stay compliant with these regulations is to hire a Fishing Charter. Charter Captains are very attuned to the different regulations that can change what species of Salmon you can fish for at a given time and where you can fish for them
The five main types of salmon found in the Seattle waters are:
- Chinook (King) salmon: Chinook salmon are the largest and most prized salmon species. They can grow to over 40+ pounds and are known for their strong runs and powerful dives.
- Coho (Silver) salmon: Coho salmon are typically smaller than Chinook salmon, but they are just as delicious. They are known for their hard-fighting runs and their aerobatics when fighting.
- Pink salmon: Pink salmon are the smallest of the Pacific salmon species. They return to Puget Sound in large numbers every two years to spawn. Pink salmon are a delicious fish to eat, but their flesh is softer than other salmon species.
- Chum salmon: Chum salmon are not as popular as other salmon species among anglers, but they are a delicious fish to eat. They are known for their dark flesh and their unique flavor.
- Sockeye salmon: Sockeye salmon are known for their bright red flesh and delicious flavor. They return to Puget Sound in small numbers every year to spawn.
Seattle Salmon Fishing Seasons
Fishing in the Spring
Spring salmon fishing in Seattle typically begins in March and runs through April. This is a great time to target Chinook salmon, which are returning to Puget Sound to spawn. Chinook salmon are the largest and most prized salmon species, and they can grow to over 40 pounds.
Seattle Salmon Fishing in June
June is a great month for fishing for Coho salmon in Seattle. Coho salmon are known for their acrobatic leaps and hard-fighting runs. They are delicious and make great table fare..
Seattle Salmon Fishing in July
July is another great month for fishing for Coho salmon in Seattle. It is also a good time to target Pink salmon, which return to Puget Sound in large numbers every year. Pink salmon are smaller than Chinook and Coho salmon, but they are just as delicious.
Seattle Salmon Fishing in August
August is the peak month for salmon fishing in Seattle. Chinook, Coho, and Pink salmon are all available during this time of year. August is also a good time to target Chum salmon, which begin returning to Puget Sound in late summer.
Seattle Salmon Fishing in September
September is a great month to fish for Coho and Chum salmon in Seattle. It is also a good time to target Sockeye salmon, which return to Puget Sound in small numbers every year. Sockeye salmon are known for their bright red flesh and delicious flavor.
Seattle Salmon Fishing in the Fall
Fall salmon fishing in Seattle typically runs from October through December. This is a great time to target Chum salmon, which are returning to Puget Sound to spawn. Chum salmon are not as popular as other salmon species among anglers, but they are a delicious fish to eat.
Ways To Catch Salmon in Seattle
There are two main ways to catch salmon in Seattle: trolling and mooching.
- Trolling: Trolling is a technique where anglers drag lures behind a moving boat. This is the most common way to catch salmon in Seattle.
- Mooching: Mooching is a technique where anglers use a spinning rod and reel to cast lures at individual fish. This is a more challenging technique than trolling, but it can be more rewarding.
Ways to Prepare Your Fresh Caught Salmon
There are many different ways to prepare fresh caught salmon. Here are a few ideas:
- Grilled salmon: Grilled salmon is a classic dish that is easy to make. Simply grill salmon filets over medium heat until cooked through.
- Baked salmon: Baked salmon is another healthy and delicious way to prepare fresh caught salmon. Simply bake salmon filets in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 15-20 minutes, or until cooked through.
- Smoked salmon: Smoked salmon is a delicious and versatile appetizer or main course. To smoke salmon, you will need a smoker and a smokehouse. Simply place salmon filets in the smoker and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
What To Take on Your Seattle Fishing Charter
Here are a few things you should take on your Seattle fishing charter:
- Valid Washington State fishing license
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Sunglasses
- Rain gear
- Warm clothes
- Snacks
- Drinks
- Camera
- Tip money for your charter captain and crew
What To Expect on Your Seattle Fishing Charter
When you arrive at the marina for your Seattle fishing charter, you will be greeted by your charter captain and crew. They will provide you with all of the necessary gear and safety instructions. Then, you will board the boat and head out to fish.
Shipping your Salmon Home
There are two major things you must take into consideration when shipping your catch home to insure its palatability and freshness:
Preparing The Fish
When preparing your Salmon make sure that you take into consideration how you would like to cook it when you get home. Will you be grilling Salmon Steaks or Baking entire filets? Let your captain know so they can clean and filet the fish appropriately.
Shipping the Salmon
Make sure that you use a sturdy container that is made for shipping frozen fish. If you are flying make sure that your fish is also frozen. The last thing you want to do is put thawed fish in a container with ice and expect it to stay fresh.
Visiting Seattle Seafood Restaurants Can Give You Some Great Ideas On How To Prepare and Present Your Seattle Salmon
Seattle and the surrounding areas have hundreds of Seafood Restaurants that you can visit and enjoy local seafood. Here are some ideas on how to get the most out of your dining experience.
- Take a Camera with you and take pictures of the menu and dishes
- Ask the waiter what he/she recommends and why
- Some Restaurants will give away recipes or even cook books they have published
- Take note of what others around you are ordering
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