Salmon are starting to be caught in good numbers around the island after a slow start.
The numbers have increased of late because the fish are returning to Puget Sound after making their way back from the stream or river of birth. I’m sure that I am not the only one that thinks it is about time.
Talking to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife biologist at Cornet Bay boaters are returning with quite a bit more in the coolers than just refreshments.
Silver salmon seem to be the top catch right now. Most of these have been caught trolling a cut plug herring. The biologist mentioned he has seen quite a few silvers weighing in at over 15 pounds — some very nice sized and healthy fish.
On a recent trip down to the Samish River I caught a limit of one silver and a nice king within a couple of hours. Now, that is not typical. In fact the next day I caught a nice king over 20 pounds, but had to work my favorite spot for several hours before I landed him.
About the only way to fish this river is to get there early, several hours before a good low tide, and work either roe or even yarn in one of the many holes you find. I’ll warn you now it does get crowded down there on the weekends, so I recommend trying to sneak down there during the week. If the weekend is all you have then just be courteous to those that arrived before you. Most of the anglers on the river will give a newcomer some advice on fishing the “ditch” as it is so affectionately called.
Hunting report
Little word has been heard about how the archery season has been this year. With hunters in the woods pursuing deer and elk it will be only a matter of days before we get some sort of glimpse on how the muzzleloader and modern firearm seasons will be. I will be sure to keep you updated.
Grouse season kicked off with a bang. Hunters will have much better success now that the summer camping season is winding down. With less traffic on the logging roads now grouse will be apt to spend more time on the logging roads. Be sure to travel up some of the side roads as they too are not traveled often and you will have a better chance at a limit.
Bear season of course is still going strong. With winter approaching fast bears will be fattening up on berries in preparation for their hibernation. Be sure to focus your attention on berry fields at higher elevations and always look for signs. The old sayings aren’t necessarily true, as signs of bears are more often seen along the gravel roads than in the woods.
Be sure to give some outdoor activity a try this month. October is just around the corner and there will be a ton of new things to get out and do.
As always be safe, be seen and be sure to introduce the sports to a child.
Send comments, suggestions, pictures or reports to whidbey_fff@yahoo.net. I will see you in the field.
