As of October 16, 2024, the fishing scene in Puget Sound is looking promising, especially with the fall season in full swing.
### Tidal and Weather Conditions
Today, the tide is transitioning from a low of 2.5 feet at 7:14 AM to a high of 11.5 feet at 1:44 PM, and then back down to a low of 3.3 feet at 7:33 PM. The weather is partly cloudy with a gentle breeze, making it a comfortable day on the water. Sunrise was at 7:38 AM, and sunset will be at 6:04 PM.
### Fish Activity
Yesterday saw a decent amount of fish activity, particularly for coho salmon. According to the creel reports, anglers at the Shilshole Public Ramp in the Seattle-Bremerton area caught several coho, with some reports indicating up to 12 coho caught per day.
### Types and Amounts of Fish
The primary catch has been coho salmon, with some reports of chinook, although chinook retention is currently limited in many areas. In the Puget Sound marine areas, coho salmon are the main target, and the forecast suggests a strong run this year.
### Best Lures and Bait
For coho salmon, using lures like spoons, especially the Luhr-Jensen Krocodile or the Acme Kastmaster, can be very effective. Bait-wise, herring or anchovies are excellent choices, either trolled or cast with a mooching rig. For those targeting chinook, larger plugs or hoochies in UV colors can attract these larger fish.
### Hot Spots
Two hot spots worth considering are the Shilshole Public Ramp in the Seattle-Bremerton area and Van Riper's South near Sekiu and Pillar Point. The Shilshole Public Ramp has seen consistent coho catches, while Van Riper's South has also reported good numbers of coho and occasional chinook.
Overall, the conditions are favorable, and with the right gear and knowledge of the tides, you should have a productive day fishing in Puget Sound. Make sure to check the latest fishing regulations and any emergency rule changes before you head out.