SALMON
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Salmon, known for their remarkable migrations and prized as both a sportfish and a culinary delight, can be found in various bodies of water in the Northwest region of the United States. Anglers flock to these waters to target salmon for their strength, acrobatics, and delectable flesh. Here are some popular locations for salmon fishing in Oregon and Washington:
Oregon
Columbia River: The Columbia River is renowned for its abundant salmon runs. Anglers target salmon in different sections of the river, including the Buoy 10 area near the river mouth, the Astoria-Megler Bridge area, and popular spots such as Bonneville, The Dalles, and John Day dams.
Rogue River: The Rogue River is famous for its salmon fishing opportunities, particularly during the fall Chinook and coho salmon runs. The lower and middle sections of the river are popular spots for targeting salmon.
Tillamook Bay: Tillamook Bay and its tributaries, including the Wilson, Trask, and Nestucca rivers, offer excellent salmon fishing opportunities. Anglers target salmon in the bay and in the nearby rivers during their respective runs.
Washington
Puget Sound: Puget Sound is a vast and productive fishery that offers opportunities to catch various salmon species, including Chinook, coho, pink, and chum salmon. Areas such as the Tacoma Narrows, Elliott Bay, and the San Juan Islands are popular for salmon fishing.
Columbia River: The Washington stretch of the Columbia River is also known for its productive salmon fisheries. Anglers target salmon in areas such as the mouth of the river near Ilwaco, the Longview area, and the popular Buoy 10 fishery.
Olympic Peninsula: The rivers on the Olympic Peninsula, such as the Hoh, Quinault, and Queets, provide excellent salmon fishing opportunities. These rivers attract both recreational anglers and fly fishing enthusiasts seeking salmon during their respective runs.
STRUCTURE AND HABITAT
Salmon are anadromous fish, meaning they spend part of their lives in freshwater rivers and streams before migrating to the ocean to mature and eventually return to their natal streams to spawn. Understanding the structure and habitat preferences of salmon can help you target them effectively:
RIVER MIGRATION: During their freshwater stage, salmon migrate up rivers and streams to reach their spawning grounds. They are often found in deeper pools and runs, where they seek refuge and conserve energy during their upstream journey. Look for areas with current breaks, submerged rocks, and deep holes that provide cover and resting places for migrating salmon.
SALTWATER ENVIRONMENT: In the ocean, salmon inhabit nearshore and offshore areas, where they feed and grow before returning to freshwater to spawn. They can be found near productive areas with upwellings, currents, and baitfish concentrations. Pay attention to underwater structures, kelp beds, and areas with temperature changes, as these can attract salmon.
ESTUARIES: Estuaries, where freshwater and saltwater mix, play a crucial role in the life cycle of salmon. These transitional zones provide important feeding grounds and shelter for juvenile salmon before they venture out to the open ocean. Look for estuaries with protected channels, marshes, and tidal flats that offer suitable habitat for young salmon.
PATTERNS
SPRING/SUMMER
Chinook Salmon: Spring and summer are prime seasons for Chinook salmon, with runs typically occurring from April to September. Target them in rivers, estuaries, and nearshore areas where they stage before heading upstream to spawn.
FALL
Coho Salmon: Fall is the peak season for coho salmon, with runs usually occurring from September to November. Target them in rivers and nearshore areas as they make their way to their spawning grounds.
WINTER
Chum and Steelhead Salmon: Winter months offer opportunities to target chum and steelhead salmon. Chum salmon runs typically occur from October to December, while steelhead runs extend from winter through early spring. Focus on rivers and estuaries during these seasons.
Bait
NATURAL BAITS
Cured Salmon Eggs: Salmon eggs, or roe, are a highly effective bait for salmon fishing. Curing the eggs with various additives such as borax, sugar, or scents can enhance their appeal and make them more durable. Different colors and curing methods can attract different salmon species, so it's worth experimenting to find what works best.
Herring: Whole or cut herring can be used as bait to target salmon. These oily fish are a natural food source for salmon, and their scent and swimming action can be irresistible to hungry fish. Attach herring to a rig or use them as cut bait to entice salmon.
Sand Shrimp: Sand shrimp are a popular bait choice, especially for Chinook salmon. These small crustaceans are commonly found in rivers and estuaries and are an enticing meal for hungry salmon. Thread sand shrimp onto a hook or use them as a trailer on a lure to attract salmon.
ARTIFICIAL LURES
Spoons: Spoons are effective lures for salmon fishing. Their flashy design mimics the movement of injured baitfish, attracting the attention of predatory salmon. Choose spoons in various sizes and colors, and experiment with different retrieve speeds to find the most effective presentation.
Spinners: Spinners are another popular choice for targeting salmon. These lures feature spinning blades that create vibrations and flash, imitating the movements of baitfish. Spinners come in a range of sizes and colors, allowing you to match the hatch and entice salmon to strike.
Plugs: Plugs are hard-bodied lures designed to mimic baitfish or larger prey. They can be effective for attracting aggressive salmon, especially when trolled or retrieved at varying speeds. Choose plugs that closely resemble the baitfish in the area or opt for flashy and vibrant patterns to trigger a salmon's predatory instinct.
Flies: Fly fishing for salmon can be incredibly rewarding. Various fly patterns, such as streamers and egg imitations, can entice salmon to strike. Choose flies in colors that mimic the local forage or experiment with different presentations to find what triggers a salmon's interest.