Best Times for Salmon Fishing in Puget Sound

Puget Sound offers some of the finest salmon fishing in the Pacific Northwest, but timing is everything. With 15+ years of guiding experience in these waters, I've learned exactly when and where to find the big ones.

Spring Salmon Season (June-August)

The summer months bring Chinook (King) salmon into Puget Sound, and it's prime time for anglers. June kicks off the season with pre-spawners moving through the shipping channels and kelp beds. July and August see the peak of the run, with fish ranging from 15 to 30+ pounds.

Best locations:

• Elliott Bay shipping lanes
• Point Defiance
• Kingston area
• Possession Bar

Fall Coho Season (September)

September is all about Coho (Silver) salmon. These acrobatic fighters provide incredible action as they stage near river mouths before their spawning runs. Coho typically run smaller than Chinook but make up for it with aggressive strikes and aerial displays.

Top tactics:

• Trolling with spoons and plugs
• Targeting 80-120 feet of water
• Early morning and evening bites

Winter Blackmouth (January-March)

Winter fishing targets resident Chinook, known locally as "blackmouth." These fish stay in Puget Sound year-round and provide excellent opportunities when other species have spawned out. They're typically smaller (8-15 pounds) but the winter fishery offers uncrowded waters and consistent action.

Pro tips:

• Fish deeper structure (150-250 feet)
• Focus on bait balls on your sounder
• Dress warm - the fishing is worth it!

Weather and Tide Considerations

Beyond seasonal timing, pay attention to:

• Tidal exchanges: Major tide changes trigger feeding activity
• Moon phases: Full and new moons often produce better fishing
• Weather patterns: Stable weather typically means better bite

Ready to experience world-class Puget Sound salmon fishing? Book your trip during peak season and let my local knowledge put you on fish.