Welcome to the world of South Puget Sound kayak fishing! If you’re a fishing enthusiast seeking thrilling adventures and abundant opportunities, you’ve come to the right place. South Puget Sound offers a vast array of fishing spots that are perfect for kayak anglers like you. Whether you’re targeting salmon, exploring new fishing techniques, or simply enjoying the beauty of Puget Sound, this region has it all.
From Browns Point to Nisqually, South Puget Sound is dotted with fishing spots that have captivated anglers for years. With Marine Area Maps 11 and 13 providing easy access to the heart of South Puget Sound, you’ll have countless opportunities to experience the adrenaline rush of catching salmon in these waters.
So, grab your kayak, pack your gear, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable fishing journey. Explore Browns Point, Carr Inlet, Fox Island, Manchester, and other renowned fishing locations that have yielded big fish and mesmerized thousands of anglers. Discover the best techniques to target salmon, from trolling to motor mooching, and make the most of your time on the water.
But the adventure doesn’t stop there! Seattle, known as the gateway to South Puget Sound, offers a multitude of fishing options, including charter fishing, shore fishing, and of course, kayak fishing. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, you’ll find something to suit your preferences and test your skills in the Emerald City.
So, get ready to explore the South Puget Sound kayak fishing wonderland. The thrill of reeling in a big salmon, the serenity of paddling through calm waters, and the beauty of the Pacific Northwest await you. Don’t miss out on the incredible fishing opportunities that South Puget Sound and Seattle have to offer.
Browns Point – A Prime Salmon Fishing Spot
Browns Point, located on the northern boundary of Tacoma’s Commencement Bay, is a popular salmon fishing spot. It is situated along the migration route for Chinook and Silver salmon heading to the nearby Puyallup River. The best time to fish for Chinook salmon here is in August, when they are returning to the Puyallup River. Trolling deep drop-offs and using baitfish like herring can yield good results.
For anglers looking to maximize their catch, employing specific fishing techniques is essential. Trolling is an effective method used to catch salmon in Browns Point. By slowly moving a bait or lure through the water, anglers can entice the salmon to strike. The use of downriggers or divers can help control the depth at which the bait or lure is presented. This way, anglers can target salmon at different depths, increasing their chances of success.
Fishing Techniques:
- Trolling: Slowly moving a bait or lure through the water to entice salmon to strike.
- Deep Drop-Offs: Targeting areas with significant changes in depth, as salmon often congregate in these areas.
- Baitfish: Using herring or other baitfish as bait to attract salmon.
- Downriggers or Divers: Controlling the depth at which the bait or lure is presented.
To enhance the fishing experience, anglers can equip themselves with quality fishing gear. Medium to heavy freshwater or saltwater rods and reels, capable of handling larger fish, are recommended. Additionally, having a variety of fishing lures and baitfish options can increase the chances of attracting the attention of salmon. It is also crucial to ensure compliance with local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary fishing licenses before heading out to Browns Point.
Carr Inlet – Limited but Productive Opportunities
Carr Inlet, located within the Key Peninsula, may not be known as a top salmon fishing location, but it can still produce some limited opportunities. The area between the West tip of Fox Island to Green Point is a good place to start fishing, especially by motor mooching just off the bottom. Trolling off Cutts and Raft Island can also be productive. In the fall, Chinook and Coho return to Minter Creek hatchery, and motor mooching out front can lead to some decent fishing.
Trolling is an effective technique in Carr Inlet, as it allows anglers to cover a wider area and target fish at different depths. Using downriggers or divers can help in reaching the desired depth where salmon are known to be present. Coho salmon are often found near the surface, so using lures that mimic their prey, such as spoons or hoochies, can be effective. Chinook salmon are more likely to be found deeper, so using downriggers to present baitfish like herring or cut plug herring at the right depth can increase your chances of success.
It’s important to note that Carr Inlet is known for its strong currents, which can make trolling challenging. Keeping an eye on the tide and adjusting your trolling speed and direction accordingly can help improve your chances of hooking into a fish. Additionally, being aware of the regulations and any specific restrictions in the area is crucial to ensure a sustainable and legal fishing experience.
Trolling Tips for Carr Inlet:
- Start by motor mooching just off the bottom near the West tip of Fox Island to Green Point.
- Try trolling off Cutts and Raft Island for productive results.
- Use downriggers or divers to reach the desired depth where salmon are present.
- Mimic the prey of the targeted species with lures such as spoons or hoochies.
- Adjust your trolling speed and direction based on the tide and current conditions.
| Fish Species | Best Time to Fish |
|---|---|
| Chinook Salmon | Fall (when returning to Minter Creek hatchery) |
| Coho Salmon | Fall (when returning to Minter Creek hatchery) |
Fox Island – Prime Salmon Fishing at the Southern End
Fox Island, located in the southern part of Puget Sound, is renowned for its prime salmon fishing opportunities. This picturesque island offers a variety of spots that attract anglers in search of salmon. Three notable locations, Fox Point, the Concrete Dock, and Point Gibson, have proven to be particularly productive in attracting salmon.
When targeting salmon at Fox Point, it is best to fish on an outgoing tide. The area just off the point, where the bottom drops from 60 feet to 150 feet, is where the salmon tend to congregate. Trolling in circles off the point can yield excellent results, especially when there are bait balls present in the area.
An incoming tide is ideal for fishing at Point Gibson. Anglers can troll from Gibson Point up the shoreline to the big rock on the beach. Trolling just above the bottom using fresh herring or spoons can entice blackmouth and summer kings, providing an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.
Trolling Techniques at Fox Island
Trolling is a popular technique used by anglers at Fox Island to target salmon. The key to successful trolling is to mimic the natural movements of baitfish, enticing the salmon to strike. Here are a few effective trolling techniques that can increase your chances of success:
- Use attractors such as flashers or dodgers to create vibrations and attract the attention of salmon.
- Vary your trolling speed to find the optimal speed at which the salmon are actively feeding.
- Experiment with different lure colors and sizes to determine what the salmon are most attracted to on a given day.
- Pay attention to depth. Adjust your downrigger or planer board to target the depth at which the salmon are actively swimming.
By employing these trolling techniques and exploring the prime fishing locations of Fox Island, anglers can enjoy a thrilling and successful salmon fishing experience in the southern end of Puget Sound.
Manchester – A Winter Salmon Fishing Hotspot
When it comes to winter salmon fishing in South Puget Sound, Manchester is a hotspot that should not be overlooked. Located on the Kitsap Peninsula, this area offers excellent opportunities for anglers seeking to catch blackmouth and late silver salmon during the winter season. With its abundance of bait and prime estuaries, Manchester attracts a healthy population of salmon, making it a favorite destination for winter fishing enthusiasts.
One of the key reasons why Manchester stands out as a prime winter salmon fishing spot is its proximity to productive estuaries. These estuaries provide an abundant food source for salmon, attracting them in large numbers during their migration. Anglers can take advantage of this by targeting the estuaries and utilizing effective fishing techniques to attract and catch salmon.
Winter fishing in Manchester typically starts during the fall salmon run and extends until April 10th. During this time, anglers can experience excellent fishing opportunities, with blackmouth and late silver salmon being the primary targets. These salmon species are known for their size and fight, providing an exciting challenge for anglers of all skill levels.
| Key Points | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Kitsap Peninsula |
| Target Species | Blackmouth and Late Silver Salmon |
| Season | From Fall Salmon Run to April 10th |
| Fishing Techniques | Trolling, Mooching |
| Special Features | Productive Estuaries, Abundant Bait |
To maximize your chances of success in Manchester, it’s important to utilize effective fishing techniques such as trolling and mooching. Trolling involves pulling lures or bait behind a moving boat, while mooching is a drifting technique that allows the bait to move naturally in the water. Both techniques can be highly effective in enticing salmon to bite.
So, if you’re looking for a winter fishing adventure in South Puget Sound, Manchester is the place to be. With its abundance of bait, productive estuaries, and prime salmon fishing opportunities, it offers an unforgettable experience for anglers seeking to catch blackmouth and late silver salmon. Don’t miss out on the excitement and head to Manchester for your next winter fishing trip.
Best Times to Fish in Seattle
When it comes to fishing in Seattle, it’s important to know the best times to maximize your chances of success. Different species have peak seasons, and understanding these fishing seasons will help you plan your fishing trips accordingly. Whether you’re targeting salmon, lingcod, or flounder, timing is everything.
To help you navigate the fishing calendar, here is a breakdown of the best times to fish in Seattle for popular species:
Salmon:
Salmon fishing in Seattle is most productive during the summer months. July and August are the peak months for mature King Salmon and Coho. During this time, these prized game fish migrate through the Puget Sound, making it an ideal period to target them. Plan your fishing trips accordingly to increase your chances of hooking a salmon.
Lingcod:
If you’re targeting lingcod, the best time to fish in Seattle is from May to mid-June. Lingcod season kicks off in May, and these aggressive predators are known for their voracious appetite during this time. So grab your gear and hit the waters during this period for a thrilling lingcod fishing experience.
Flounder:
Flounder, such as Sanddab, can be caught year-round in Seattle. However, they are most abundant at depths between 40 and 120 feet. So if you’re planning to target flounder, focus your efforts in these depth ranges for the best results. Keep in mind that flounder are bottom-dwelling fish, so adjust your fishing techniques accordingly.
Dungeness Crab:
Seattle also offers excellent Dungeness Crabbing opportunities during the summer and late fall/early winter seasons. These delicious crustaceans are a popular catch among anglers, and crabbing can be a fun and rewarding experience. Check the local regulations for specific season dates and make sure you have the necessary permits before heading out to catch some tasty Dungeness Crab.
Remember, fishing success is tied to multiple factors, including weather conditions, water temperature, and bait availability. While these are general guidelines, it’s always recommended to check local fishing reports and consult with experienced anglers or local fishing charters for the most up-to-date information.
Fishing Seasons in Seattle:
| Species | Best Time |
|---|---|
| Salmon | July – August |
| Lingcod | May – mid-June |
| Flounder | Year-round, best at depths 40-120ft |
| Dungeness Crab | Summer and late fall/early winter |
Fishing Options in Seattle – Charter Fishing, Shore Fishing, and Kayak Fishing
Seattle offers a diverse range of fishing options for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you prefer the expertise and convenience of charter fishing, the simplicity of shore fishing, or the thrill of kayak fishing, there’s something for everyone. Let’s explore these fishing options in more detail:
Charter Fishing
Charter fishing is a popular choice for many anglers in Seattle. These guided fishing trips provide access to specialized equipment and the expertise of experienced guides. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, charter fishing offers a great opportunity to catch a variety of fish species, including salmon, lingcod, and halibut. Plus, with charters available for full-day or half-day trips, you can customize your fishing experience to fit your schedule.
Shore Fishing
If you prefer to keep things simple and enjoy the serenity of the shoreline, shore fishing is a fantastic option. Seattle is home to numerous lakes and piers where you can cast your line and try your luck. Bass, trout, perch, and other freshwater species can be found in these waters, providing ample opportunities for anglers. Popular spots for shore fishing include Green Lake, Lake Washington, and Elliott Bay. Just pack your gear, find a comfortable spot along the shore, and enjoy a relaxing day of fishing.
Kayak Fishing
For those seeking a more adventurous fishing experience, kayak fishing is a thrilling option. Seattle’s calm waters, particularly in Puget Sound, provide the perfect setting for kayak fishing enthusiasts. Launch your kayak and explore the scenic coastline as you target species like salmon, lingcod, and rockfish. The maneuverability of a kayak allows you to access areas that may be inaccessible by boat, increasing your chances of landing a big catch. Just remember to follow safety guidelines and be aware of weather conditions before setting out on your kayak fishing adventure.
| Fishing Option | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Charter Fishing | Expert guidance, specialized equipment, access to prime fishing spots |
| Shore Fishing | Convenient and accessible, a variety of freshwater species |
| Kayak Fishing | Adventurous, access to secluded areas, potential for big catches |
No matter which fishing option you choose, Seattle offers an abundance of opportunities to indulge in your passion for angling. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing day on the shore, the excitement of a guided charter trip, or the thrill of kayak fishing, you’re sure to find an experience that suits your preferences. So grab your fishing gear, explore the waters of Seattle, and make unforgettable memories on your next fishing adventure!
Conclusion
South Puget Sound and Seattle offer an array of fishing opportunities for anglers. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a novice, these waters provide a diverse range of experiences. From the prime salmon fishing spots like Browns Point and Fox Island to the tranquil kayak fishing and the abundance of shore fishing options, there’s something for everyone.
With its scenic beauty and thriving marine life, South Puget Sound is a haven for anglers seeking an adventure. The bountiful waters attract a variety of fish species, including salmon, lingcod, bass, trout, and perch. Whether you prefer casting your line from the shore, exploring the calm waters in a kayak, or embarking on a charter fishing trip, the fishing opportunities are endless.
Seattle, known for its vibrant city life, also offers excellent fishing opportunities. With its convenient access to the surrounding waters, anglers can indulge in a thrilling fishing experience without venturing too far from the city. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Seattle provides a gateway to a world of fishing possibilities.
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