Now that Marine Area 9 has closed most anglers will focus their attention to the San Juan Islands.

The action Area 7 has slowed down compared to what it was a few weeks ago and but there are anglers are having to work a bit harder to find the salmon.

I suggest trying the areas closer to Whidbey Island as migrating fish will concentrate in these areas before heading up stream.

I mentioned the Samish River in my last column, but it hasn’t quite taken off yet. However, the open area out in the bay can be quite productive. the big kings.

The outgoing tide until a few hours after low tide is the time to go. It gets very shallow out there so a big boat is not recommended.

Point Wilson Darts are the lure of choice and white is the most popular color. You do not need the big heavy ones. The smaller, lighter ones work great in the shallow water.

Out a bit farther in Area 7 Lopez Flats, Thatcher Pass and Guemes Island have been doing fair. I would keep the Hoochies tied up and stay away from cut plug herring, too. There are tons of dog fish out there and with bait it can be down right frustrating for anglers.

The new UV Hoochies have been doing better than most according to some reports. Personally I have never tried them.

Green Glow and Green Splatter Back are by far the most popular. Tie these behind a green Hot Shot Flasher and you have a pretty deadly combination. Keep your downrigger down to where you are marking fish on the fish finder. If you are not marking fish then start near the bottom and then work your way up 10- to-15-feet every 20 to 30 minutes until you get your first bite.

The Skagit River is set to open up for silvers Sept. 1. This is another exciting fishery that I have yet to experience. Once I get some reports, I will post as much information about the river as I can.