Skagit Area Report

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FRESHWATER

The upper Skagit from Rockport up to Marblemount has been putting out some nice hatchery steelhead. The success rates have been surprisingly good over the past week or so. This fishery will close on Friday Feb 15.

Look for year-round lakes to start to warm up as the days get longer. Kokanee fishing in Samish and rainbow fishing in Campbell are usually the first to kick off.

SALTWATER

The San Juan Islands have continued to be better than average for blackmouth fishing. The annual Roche Harbor Salmon Classic took place last weekend. They weighed in a record number of fish this year. 196 hatchery blackmouth hit the scales with the largest weighing 16.7 pounds caught by Pete Nelson winning him the $10,000 first prize. There were a total of 100 boats with 339 anglers fishing the derby. 104 fish were weighed in on Friday and 92 fish on Saturday. Most of the fish came from Spring Pass and Waldron Island although areas in Rosario Straight have also been putting lots of fish out this year.

The Anacortes Salmon Derby tickets are now on sale. They are going fast and over 500 of the total 1000 tickets have already been sold ($60 each). This derby sells out quick so come get your tickets! The derby will take place March 30 & 31 this year. First place will be $15,000 and there are lots of other cash/merchandise prizes to win!

The Hot Plugs Derby will take place on March 2 with a cost of $50 per person. 1st place prize is 50% of the ticket money ($1400 last year). Tickets are available at the Stanwood Eagles, Elger Bay Grocery, Camano Marine, Holiday Sports, Johns Sporting Goods, and Teds.

There have been a lot of smelt fishermen heading to Oak Harbor lately. This is usually a good indication that they are catching fish although nobody has opened their mouth about how good it’s been.

Remember to report your winter crab catch record cards to avoid the fine. Also report your Snow Goose, Brant and Sea Duck cards.

Anthon Steen
Holiday Sports Center
360-757-4361