Fishing :: Salmon

RED/ SOCKEYE (5 STAR RUN)

…Odds of seeing a sockeye? Oh, about 8 million to one.

Average size: 8-12 pounds
State record: 16 lbs. 0 oz.

The sockeye salmon run in our drainage is the world's largest run of any salmon--typically 8 to 10 million (yes, million) fish. The hardest fighting of all Pacific salmon, if sockeyes grew any larger they'd be nearly impossible to land. But once landed, they're as tasty a fish as you'll find. Let's see, are they more delectable when pulled from the smoker, or when seared over an open fire? There's only one way to find out…come join us for sockeye season and settle the question.

Peak Times*:
July 1-August 31

Hint: If you come in July, don't forget your cooler.

SILVER/ COHO

…"Are you sure they don’t have wings? They must have wings."

Average size: 10-14 pounds
State record: 26 lbs. 0 oz.

Silvers are the most acrobatic of the Pacific Salmon. They explode out of the water like shiny little rockets, and entertain you (and your smoking fly reel) with their frothy, tail-walking dance. Be ready for a sometimes ferocious hit.

Peak Times*:
August 8-Sept 30

PINK/ HUMPY

…Feed me. Feed me.

Average size: 4-7 pounds
State record: 12 lbs. 9 oz.

Although pinks are the smallest of the Pacific Salmon, they are probably the most aggressive, and it is not unusual to hook a humpy on every other cast.

Peak Times*:
July 15-Aug 8

NOTE: Pink Salmon run on even numbered years.

CHUM/ DOG

…Better hit the gym

Average size: 10-16 pounds
State record: 32 lbs. 0 oz.

The Chum Salmon is the second largest of the Pacific Salmon and is responsible for busting more rods than any other salmon. These fish are very strong and you will spend anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes fighting one fish.

Peak Times*:
Appx. July 15-Aug 15. NOTE: Run coincides with that of Pink Salmon.