This could be in the books as the absolute best fishing of all times for the summer run of Chinook salmon in the Northern San Juan’s. It was nearly a guarantee to catch fish on every trip out. All the hot spots were producing quality fish- Thompson, Waldron, West beach on Orcas and of course Alden Bank. It was such a for sure bet out there that we even tried a new spot that looked fishy on the northern tip of Barnes Island- Whacked em’ there too. The biggest fish landed on the “Reel Estate” was a 27 lber. But I was on the McAuley’s “Fish n’ Jul” in August and took part in Kirk Hawley’s landing of a 36 lb Fraser River white king. As with fisherman protocol that was landed in a location that I can not disclose, but I will say it was at a depth and spot I would not have tried.
For the crabbing it looks to remain open through the end of the year in Marine area 7. It is 5 crab per person per day, and these fall crab are delicious. We typically go out in front of Sandy Point in 50 feet of water, but I do have to say we don’t trap many. Most boats get them pretty good but for what ever reason we never load up.
The Salmon Season will end October 31st and re-open Dec 1st. At this point most of the fish will be Blackmouth Salmon- the best eaters of the year. If tips are needed just give us a call at the Fishing Hotline 360-303-2734 we are happy to help.