The Pacific Northwest is known for its ample supply of salmon. Salmon are prized not only for their exceptional fight, but for their taste and health benefits as a source of omega-3 fatty acids. The city of Bellingham, in the northern part of Washington State, is surrounded by rivers and bays that fill with salmon during the fall, when the fish return to freshwater to spawn. If you know the best places to go and techniques to use, you can greatly increase your chance at landing a big keeper.
Geography
The Nooksack River is the main salmon river near Bellingham. It begins in the east and is comprised of three forks; the south fork, main fork and north fork. Anglers can reach any fork of the Nooksack, using Bellingham as their base. The south fork and main fork offer the best fishing out of all three of them. Fishing is also good in the lower Nooksack, after the three forks combine.
Techniques
The Nooksack river varies greatly as it winds and turns through the woods and farmlands around Bellingham. Depending on your location, a variety of techniques are available. Anglers can shore fish or use a boat, though boat angling usually provides more opportunities. For shallow water, use yarn or flies, allowing the tackle to drift down the river. For deeper water use weighted plugs and spinners. Jig the deep pools by raising and lowering your rod tip, providing live action to the lure.
Time Frame
The Nooksack River begins to fill with salmon in the fall and run into the winter. Chinook, coho and steelhead are available in all parts of the river as they return to freshwater to spawn. Fishing seasons vary by region of the river, though most areas are open from the beginning of October through December. Early morning and late evening are the best time to fish for salmon in the rivers, as they rest and feed before continuing up river.
Regulations
Every angler fishing in the state of Washington must purchase and carry a fishing license issued by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. Licenses can be found at most sporting good or hardware stores. For salmon fishing in the rivers around Bellingham, anglers should purchase a freshwater permit. Permits can be purchased for individual days or longer, up to a year. Carrying a permit, recording catch numbers, and fishing within the permitted season are the three tenets of Washington State fishing regulations.
Guides
For anglers who have little or no experience fishing for salmon near Bellingham, professional guides provide the knowledge and equipment necessary for a successful fishing trip. Guide service usually includes use of a boat, fishing equipment and cleaning services. Some guides may provide lunch and pickup at your home or hotel. However, the most valuable service offered is guides' knowledge. Many have fished the Nooksack River for salmon for several years and know the best places and techniques to catch massive salmon.
Preparation
Salmon are an excellent source of protein and of vital nutrients. The way a salmon is prepared and eaten can either enhance or deteriorate its health benefits. Baking or broiling salmon will preserve the benefits without adding additional fat. Simply place salmon fillets on a baking sheet, cover with a few slices of lemon and loosely cover, baking at 350 degrees until done. You can also grill salmon, basting with a light marinade or vinaigrette, which adds a smoky flavor rather than calories.
Member Comments