Fishing has been really slow these past few weeks but it won’t stay that way for long. Anglers have had very limited success in most of the local hot spots. Fort Casey has had a few schools pass through. Some anglers have managed to catch a sockeye or two as well as the occasional silver.

Deception Pass hasn’t been any better. You can see the dozens of anglers on the beach everyday as you cross the bridge. A few of them have had some success but the word seems to be that the salmon are still coming.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife says they expect over 2 million pinks to flood into the Sound this year and so far it seems the numbers are off. Maybe we need a good rain to cause some action to start happening. At this pace anglers will start to get frustrated and the beaches will clear up.

Anglers out in the San Juans on the other hand have had some good action especially around San Juan Island itself. Pinks, silvers, sockeye and even chinook have been caught by some of the most persistent anglers I know. If you don’t have a boat just give it some time and be sure to put in the time as well.

I wish I could say that I had all the time I wanted to fish but work has taken up most of my free time and most of my fellow CPO selectees as well. We are just looking forward to later in the season to get out there and give it a go, so be sure to save some fish for us.

Hunting around

Hunting is just starting to kick off this year. Bear has been open since the beginning of the month and as of yet I have had no reports. The weather has been pretty hot so I imagine a lot of hunters are waiting for it to cool off a bit before heading out.

Sept. 1 forest grouse will open providing the first opportunity for a lot of hunters to hit the woods. Between now and then take a drive up your favorite logging road and do a little preseason scouting. It could pay off big once the season opens. Areas around Concrete and Darrington are favorites among local hunters for good reason, they have a large population of birds. Early in the morning or later in the afternoon will be your best time to find them so be patient.

I normally don’t discuss anything but hunting and fishing but I understand there are those that like to partake in other outdoor activities. This time of the year is the perfect time to get outdoors and do something. Whether it is camping, hiking or even bike riding be sure to get out there and enjoy the beautiful areas around the island. You will have plenty of time to stay indoors once fall arrives. Until next time I wish you all the best and look forward to hearing from you.

Send comments, suggestions, pictures and reports to me at whidbey_fff@yahoo.com.