Calling a fishing destination “5-star” can mean a lot of things to different people.

Some people are all about the fishing and only the fishing. Five stars to them means spectacular fishing opportunities for that prized species on their list. For them, it could be good numbers, rare fishes, or even “trophy” size. If this means sleeping in a car on the side of the road it makes no difference to them. It’s all about the fish.

Other people are looking for a trip the whole family can enjoy, a vacation with a side of good fishing. They want some amenities, some nightlife, maybe some local culture and sightseeing. Then a couple days on a blue water charter.

Throw in all the factors like; do you want a guided/charter experience or are you more into self-guided adventures? What time of year? What species? What’s on the bucket list? Boat or shore? Fly fishing? Budget? Well, you get a lot of answers for what a 5 Star Fishing Destination entails. And guess what? Everybody’s right. Your dream fishing destination is a personal thing. Whether you’re a trophy hunter or dream of ten inch trout on a quiet Alpine Lake, who can say its not “5 star”? Fishing is many things for everyone, but here are some of our favorites from over the years and why we think of them as “5 star”. (Hint: the reasons aren’t all the same.)

Starting from East to West:

Fort Peck, Montana

DIY Road Trip Adventure

For some people seeking out fishing destinations, the adventure of getting there is more than half the fun. Fort Peck Montana is nearly 1000 miles from Seattle and a 15-hour drive straight through.  It is so far East it’s not really PNW anymore. The road to Fort Peck has its share of roadside attractions, beautiful scenery, and fun stops if you plan your time accordingly. If your 5-star fishing destination means a nice long road trip, you should put Fort Peck on your list.

Why Fort Peck? Last year a new state record came out of Fort Peck that caught the attention of anglers across the U.S.. You might be surprised that the record was for Chinook Salmon, a 32.62 Chinook to be exact. That’s a nice fish anywhere! And travelling across the northwest to this unlikely spot for a chance at 30 pound plus Kings is what makes this one of our 5-star destinations.  The fishing opportunity doesn’t stop with salmon at Fort Peck, Walleye, Sauger, Northern Pike, Lake Trout, and Small Mouth Bass all abound in one of the most beautiful, uncrowded fishing destinations in the United States.  And from experience, they grow them large in Big Sky country!

Fort Peck Reservoir is a big lake (about 134 miles in length, 1520 miles of shoreline, and roughly 220’ deep when full) created by the Fort Peck Dam on the Missouri River, and boats are recommended but there are a lot of marinas and campgrounds to plan your trip around with many having shore fishing opportunities. Glasgow, Montana serves as a good base camp with various lodging, restaurants, and re-supply options and is just 17 miles from the Fort Peck Marina. The Cottonwood Inn & Suites has a variety of options for lodging; from RV Parking to hotel rooms, and amenities include boat parking, a casino, and restaurant.

You can learn more about Fort Peck, and how to fish it at https://fwp.mt.gov/fish

Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho

North Idaho Trophy Hunting

Lake Pend Oreille is the largest lake in Idaho and in the top 50 for the U.S.. It is really deep (over 1000 feet in some areas) and is known for naval submarine testing. This is beautiful country, with a host of fishing options, but what many come for are the Kamloops.  Kamloops are a Gerrard strain of rainbow trout and that are known as some of the biggest trout around, and are highly sought after to round out an avid trout anglers trophy checklist. Your chance for “Big fish” is what makes Lake Pend Oreille a 5-star fishing destination.

The Idaho state record Kamloops rainbow trout was caught out of Pend Oreille in 1947 by Wes Hamlet in 1947. That’s a long time for a record to hold up, but that doesn’t stop anglers from pursuing glory every year in tournaments, by boat, and from shore. Pend Oreille is also home to massive schools of kokanee (a favorite food of the Kamloops), and populations of pike, bass, perch, walleye, crappie and mackinaw. The lake has a history of big fish taken from it in addition to the trout record, these include a 43-pound 6-ounce mackinaw in 1995, and a world record 32-pound bull trout in 1949.  

The idyllic town of Sandpoint sits on the shores of Lake Pend Oreille, nestled in forests between the mountains and the lake.  A destination town for skiers in the winter and boaters in the summer, Sandpoint is a great home base for the family fishing destination vacation with some boujee amenities not too far from some small town, rustic escapes. The theme park, Silverwood, is less than 30 minutes away. If you’re looking to plan a trip with something for everyone, shopping, hiking, dining, and trophy fishing, Sandpoint and the neighboring town of Ponderay are great options. 

The word is out, and the popularity of the area has grown immensely for so plan ahead! Jeff and Mona Laybourne of Superfly Tackle not only operate the local tackle store and carry everything you need, but they make specialized gear to target the lake’s prized trophies. They are a wealth of information and can be reached online at https://superflyflies.com/. 

Clearwater River, Idaho

Steelhead Mecca

Arguably the most consistent steelhead fishing in the region and your best shot at steelhead retention (catch and keep), the Clearwater River’s retention steelhead season runs from early October to mid-April, with prime time being October through January. You can be at this steelhead promise land in just under 6 hours from Seattle.  

The river draws steelhead enthusiasts from around the northwest, offering outstanding opportunities for catch-and-release fishing, fly fishing, shore fishing, and of course drift boats and power boats. The Clearwater’s “B-run” may be the best bet in the region for a trophy 20 pounder, and B-run fish typically average 12-14 pounds. Many of the fish originate at the Dworshak National Fish Hatchery managed by the Nez Perce tribe of Idaho, located at the confluence of the North Fork and mainstem Clearwater, about 3 miles west of Orofino, Idaho.

While the epic steelhead fishing and amazing stretches of highly fishable water make this a 5-star fishing destination, the Clearwater is not a one trick pony. The Dworshak hatchery bolsters catch and keep chances for King and Coho salmon with sustainable fish production goals. Coho were declared extinct in the river in 1986, but this year there was an overlapping sport season for Coho, Kings, and Steelhead! These October days are prime time and can be some of the most amazing, quality, days of an angler’s life. With returning Coho averaging 8-12 pounds, 10 to 20 pounds plus Chinook, and those amazing B-run in the river at the same time, pandemonium has been the theme more than once! Recent years have seen spring run Chinook seasons as well. 

This adventure is really about the fishing and those special days on the water. There are a variety of options in the area for shore fishing, multiple boat launches, and some great area outfitters. Many folks skip the hassle of pulling the boat and learning the river, instead walking onto a guides boat and getting right into the hot spots. Many of these area professionals provide a “hot lunch” as well, and around noon you can smell burgers and brats all around the river. Guides we recommend in the area include Toby Wyatt of Reel Time Fishing https://reeltimefishing.com, Kyle Jones of Jones Sport Fishing https://jonessportfishing.com, and Adam Hocking of Steel Dreams Guide Service https://steeldreamsfishing.com.  For lodging Lewiston, Idaho has all the amenities with the Hell’s Canyon Grand being our usual choice. Orofino, Idaho, has several good options as well.

Potholes Reservoir, Washington

Walleye Wonderland

Not everyone’s into walleye, but if you are, Potholes Reservoir should be on your list.  Located about seven miles south of Moses Lake in Central Washington, Potholes Reservoir offers year-round fishing opportunities for walleye, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, and panfish.  Dinner plate bluegill are not unknown and last year there was some great rainbow fishing. 

The lake is large and shallow, with most of the lake less than 30 feet deep.  What used to be, and still is to some extent, a large collection of sand dunes, is now a one-of-a-kind regional destination for bass and walleye anglers and recreation of all sorts.  Part of the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project, multiple tournaments are held on the Lake annually, most held at the MarDon Resort Marina. 

With over 300 days of sunshine, MarDon is popular as a destination for families, and vacationers nearly year-round (boating, camping, resort events, wildlife & birdwatching), with the Fall and Winter offering excellent waterfowl hunting opportunities. The resort has a variety of lodging opportunities from big RV spots and campsites to beach houses and cabins, you can customize your Potholes Lodging experience to your needs.  The marina offers quick access to the Lake, and the restaurant and resort store means you don’t really need to go anywhere. 

The consistent walleye fishing, and the flexibility to tailor the trip to whatever you’re looking for is what makes this a 5-star fishing destination. Walleye are delicious table fare, and the big boys can offer a surprising fight.  Nothing beats a mess of walleye grilled up after a day of fishing with one of those epic Potholes sunsets on the horizon. 

You can fish from the shore or the marina dock, launch your boat, rent a boat, or hire a local guide to experience Potholes Reservoir Fishing.  Shelby Ross of Ross Outdoor Adventures is the resident expert on lake conditions and where the fish are. 

To learn more about MarDon Reservoir visit  https://mardonresort.com/ to contact Shelby Ross of Ross Outdoor Adventure visit: https://rossoutdooradventures.com

Zeballos, BC

Trip of a Lifetime

This one is for those people who want the ultimate PNW fishing experience. You want salmon, you want halibut, you want the smell of saltwater and rugged untouched shorelines. This destination is not for people that one shopping, nightlife, and dance clubs. When you pull into Zeballos, BC you drive into the past. There’s one thing to do: Fish, Eat, Sleep, Repeat.

There’s one primary business in this town: Reel Obsession Sportfishing. Zeballos is about halfway up the west coast of Vancouver Island in British Columbia. It looks just like the coastal parts of the PNW.  On the drive up (about 4 1/2 hours from the ferry in Nanaimo) there are towering Cedars and Firs, jagged mountains and pristine streams. There aren’t any mini-marts though. This trip is all about decompressing and enjoying some of the consistently best all-around salmon & halibut fishing in the region, and the team at Reel Obsession is obsessive in providing an unforgettable experience for their guests.

From the time you arrive until you depart, they have thought of everything. Wonderful accommodations, amazing chef prepared meals, top quality boats, gear, and equipment, and off the hook fishing is what makes this a 5-star fishing destination. Owners Adrian and Angie O’Connor have grown their operation to include up to 30 guests daily with groups of two, three, and larger visiting for three- or four-day inclusive trips. Guests start their day with breakfast in the common room then head for the boats, lunches already onboard, after eight hours of fishing your captain returns you to the dock. Fish are filleted, vacuum packed, and flash froze – all while you enjoy the latest chef’s creation. Then you wake up and do it again. 

Located at the end of Esperanza Inlet which leads to Nootka Sound and then the Pacific Salmon Highway, fishing from Zeballos allows multiple options to intercept salmon, access to reliable halibut grounds, and the chance at ling cod and bottom fish nearly every trip. Later in the season Albacore Tuna trips are possible as are the chances for the prized Tyee Salmon (30 pounds or larger). 

U.S. guests are limited to specific travel limits which usually fill a good cooler. Reel Obsession books up fast each season, we recommend you reach out to them early to plan your destination fishing adventure. For more information about Reel Obsession visit https://reelobsession.ca

Who: Laughing Dog Brewing

What: Award-winning Brews and Award-winning Chef

Where: 805 Schweitzer Plaza Dr. Ponderay, ID 83852

About their Dog House:

Laughing Dog Brewing is a must-stop for those fishing in or around Lake Pend Oreille in North Idaho.

Located in Ponderay, just north of Sandpoint, the easy access to Highway 2 (Highway 95) and Highway 200 lends itself to a quick and restful stop for the traveling fisherman. No need to kick off your boots here, walk in just as you are - straight off the boat - and bring your furry friend with you. Yes, as in the name, Laughing Dog caters to those with pooches in tow.

Laughing Dog not only has 12 taps on hand, but their food is an elevated comfort style that triggers curiosity and tickles the pallet. The menu is constantly evolving, being driven by local produce and their award-winning Chef/Owner’s imagination. Which in my opinion, is limitless. Chef Adam Hegsted is a genius in his field at the top of his game.

The Food:

Laughing Dog takes the hotdog to a whole new level. Their Haute’ Dogs menu has something for everyone. Try the Traveler! Made with local smokey sausage, it is topped with jalapeno jam, peanut sauce, cilantro, pickled jalapenos, and basil aioli. Laughing Dog's burger choices are just as imaginative and delicious. The PB & J Burger has jalapeno jelly, peanut butter sauce, cilantro, Thai basil aioli, and pickled peppers on a brioche bun. The Korean Chicken Sandwich is amazing and is my favorite. The Classic Burger delivers for those burger enthusiasts’ predetermined expectations of what a hamburger should taste like. The Truffle Mac and Cheese and Avocado Nachos are two of Rob Holman’s favorites.

The Taps:

Laughing Dog Brewing is known for many things, and their Huckleberry Ale is top of the list. Amid huckleberry territory, Laughing Dog prides itself on sourcing NW ingredients that are brewed in the Northwest in their Ponderay Brewery.  The summit Cider is out of this world and is made with northwest apples. The Dogfather…It's everything the name suggests, and more. Stop in to find a new creation on tap, like the Huckleberry Seltzer, that has made its way from the tap to the shelf because of its taste and popularity.  Schedule a tour of the Brewery if you have the time or check out their website to find where you can find Laughing Dog Brewing products in stores near you.

Find Our Beer – Laughing Dog Brewery (laughingdogbrewing.com)

The awards:

• 2023 Gold metal recipient Belgium Beer Festival class “Brown Ale”
• Best of Inlander Spokane 2024

We are a Destination RV Resort on the shores of Potholes Reservoir, 15 minutes South of I-90 at the Moses Lake exit. Potholes Reservoir is a 28,000-acre lake held back by a 3.5-mile earthen-filled dam, the longest such dam in the US. There is a boat launch at the resort as well as 3 others on the lake.

We are a 3^rd generation family resort. The senior Mesebergs bought the resort in 1972, moving from Seattle to MarDon. Now their grandchildren, Levi and Annie manage the resort. Our motto is From our family to yours!

Over the last 10 years, our family has added big rig RV sites and remodeled existing RV sites in the park.  We have replaced both old motels with 10 cottages and 5 beautifully appointed lake houses.  We also have rental homes and camper cabins sprinkled throughout the resort.  Once you are here and settled in the lodging or your RV, you can explore the resort and lake shoreline.  Come evening, enjoy a meal in our Beach House at MarDon Restaurant and lounge.  Or catch the sunset while you relax in a lawn chair on the marina while wetting a line. The marina boasts crappie, perch, bluegill, bass, trout, and the occasional walleye bite. And if you didn’t bring the right tackle or nightcrawlers the MarDon Tackle and Gift Shop is the place for you. 

And don’t forget to leave time to try our 18-hole mini golf course, $5 or $10 (kid/senior or adult).  It is challenging, fun, and a good way to work up a competitive banter amongst your group.  Or spend the day on the beach while the kids build sand castles and frolic in the lake. For the older kids, there is a dock to swim to.

The resort offers seasonal rates. Summer RV is $40-$85, $40 being a weekday water and light hookup, while the $85 is a big rig pull-through full hookup site with a concrete slab. The spring/fall range is $30-$70. Summer lodging is $165 - $410. All units are for 4, 6 or 8-person families. The $165 is a camper cabin, Cottages are $240-$335, Lake Houses are $290-330, and the large rental homes are $410. The Spring/Fall range is $120 - $315.

Nearby is a beautiful 18-hole course 1 mile from the resort, The Legacy Golf Resort.  Pro Touch rents jet skis (1 mile away but they will deliver to our beach).  MarDon Resort rents pontoon boats for families of 8 or less and 14’ fishing boats with a 15 hp motor for 2-4 people.  There are 70+ small lakes below the dam to explore,  www.columbianationalwildliferefuge.com

In other words, you will find more to do than you have time for. We have big skies, big water, and the best sunsets that I have ever seen (and I have been to Hawaii!).

https://mardonresort.com

A GREAT WAY TO BREAK INTO THE WORLD OF TOURNAMENT FISHING

Tournament bass fishing can be an intimidating experience, but it can also be a whole lot of fun and if you want to dip your toes into the world of competitive fishing, a Big Bass tournament is a terrific way to start!

THE STANDARD TOURNAMENT FORMAT

For decades, the standard tournament format involves either an individual angler or a two-person team on board a bass boat fishing for anywhere from one to three days.  The goal is to catch five big bass, put them into your livewell, and at the end of the day bring them to the dock where a weigh-in takes place. The team with the heaviest bag wins.  After the weigh-in, the bass are released into the lake. If anglers submit a dead bass to be weighed in it is subject to a penalty with a certain amount of the weight being subtracted. In some cases, dead bass are not allowed to be weighed in at all.

There is usually an 80-20 rule when it comes to these bass tournaments, especially the opens where anyone can fish the event. The top twenty percent of anglers tend to end up at the top of the leaderboard while the other 80 percent of the anglers essentially donate their entry fees to the winners.  

It’s a tough way to break in because there is invariably a huge learning curve when it comes to tournament fishing that improves with on-the-water experience.  It is something that can’t be overcome by watching YouTube videos about bass fishing.  

Another barrier to anglers wanting to get into the tournament scene is the best anglers also have the best electronics, boats, 250 HP outboards, Power Poles, forward-facing sonar, and more.  In other words, they spend a bunch of money on equipment that may give them an edge over their competition. 

HOW A BIG BASS TOURNAMENT WORKS

Big Bass tournaments are a completely different animal from a standard bass tournament. They are almost always open vs. club tournaments, meaning any angler can compete and you don’t have to be a member of the specific club putting on the tournament.

The goal of a Big Bass tournament is to catch the biggest bass and the payouts can be huge.  Northwest Bass and Nixon’s Marine team up to give away a new bass boat to one of the hourly winners. What is an hourly winner?  That would be the biggest bass caught over an hour-long period throughout the tournament.  During the Northwest Bass tournament I participated in, some 100 teams were competing, and seven hourly winners.  Each hourly winner was given a key and one by one, the team would get into the giveaway boat and turn the key to start the engine.  One of the seven keys works, the other six do not and it’s an exciting event to watch at the end of the day.

Other tournaments I’ve participated in with Limit Out Marine and the Mount Saint Helens Bass Masters also had hourly payouts for the biggest bass weighed in each hour and a big check (up to $10,000) for the biggest bass weighed in during the event.

Big Bass tournaments draw big crowds fishing from a variety of different boats. Unlike the upper-level tournament anglers who routinely catch three to four-pound fish over the course of the day, a Big Bass contestant only needs to catch one good fish to cash a check. This really helps level the playing field, giving even the casual bass angler a shot and being a winner.

CONSERVATION

Tournament bass anglers pride themselves on their catch and release ethic of letting all bass go at the end of the tournament.  However, catching bass in the morning and driving around the lake all day can really beat the fish up, especially on a windy day.  In some cases, bass don’t make it alive to the weigh-in and in other cases, while they may be alive when they are released back into the lake they may not survive over the long term.

That’s why Big Bass tournaments are much easier on the fish.  You generally know what it is going to take to have a chance to win an hourly weigh-in.  So, let’s say that weight is four pounds.  You might catch five fish that are all three-pounders you would normally have in the livewell all day but in a Big Bass tournament, knowing you need at least a four-pounder, you release them immediately right where you caught them. 

If you do have a four-pound or bigger fish in this scenario, you race back to the weigh-in site within the hour, get it weighed, and then release it back in the general area where you caught it.  By doing these things, you are really helping the overall fishery by keeping the bass healthy and back in the water as soon as possible.

STRATEGIES

The best thing about a Big Bass tournament is that no matter what your skill level, you know that even a blind squirrel can find a nut sometimes and the same goes for you as a Big Bass tournament angler!  However, if you want to increase the odds there are a few things you can do.

Do your research and find out, historically, where the bass are usually found in the body of water you are fishing at the time of year the tournament takes place.  Ask the local bait shop employees what the hot lures and offerings are for the time of year you are fishing. And most importantly, fish the lake or river before the event.

Many tournaments will have a cut-off date where you cannot be on the water for several days before the tournament begins. That’s okay.  Just get on the water as close to the cut-off as you can. Explore the lake.  Figure out the places where the fish are not and narrow it down to where they are in terms of depth and orienting around structures; whether it be trees, submerged vegetation, beaver huts, rocks, points, etc. 

Oh, and don’t go crazy and win the pre-fish! You don’t want to catch 30 fish at one place because you’ll likely find those fish wise up to what you are trying to sell them come tournament day. Instead, just hook a couple and shake them off so that the majority of the fish in the area you want to be on your big day are undisturbed.

WASHINGTON BIG BASS TOURNAMENTS TO CHECK OUT:

The following clubs and tournament circuits offer Big Bass tournaments, open to the public, every year:

• Limit Out Marine/ Big Bass Trail – www.bigbasstrail.com
• Northwest Bass – www.northwestbass.com 
• Washington State Bass Federation – www.wabass.org 
• Mount Saint Helens Bass Masters - www.mshbm.org

Big Bass tournaments! They are a ton of fun and a great way to get into the sport. Give it a try this year.

John Kruse – www.northwesternoutdoors.com and www.americaoutdoorsradio.com

Although this time of year can seem low on fishing opportunities, there is one fishery that I always look forward to. The Cowlitz River smelt fishery is a truly special opportunity. It's unique for several reasons. One, you don't even use a fishing pole! Two, you usually have less than a week's notice when it opens. Three, it's only open for a few hours at a time.

Thankfully, there is a generous 10-pound limit, and you don't need a fishing license to participate. Smelt are absolutely delicious when fried or smoked. They're very oily fish, and their meat is soft and sweet. If you aren't interested in eating them, they make great cut bait or crab bait. Interested in trying the fishery? Let's dive into how and where to get them.

Thankfully, the gear needed for smelt dipping is pretty minimal. You will need a bucket to hold your catch, a scale, and a long-handled net. I typically use a 5-gallon bucket, but you can get away with using a smaller bucket if that's what you have. The limit is 10 pounds, which WDFW says is typically a quarter of a 5-gallon bucket. It's a good idea to carry a scale though, in case you get checked by a game warden.

The most important advice I can give you is to make sure your net has a long handle and fine mesh. A typical landing net won't do the job. The handle isn't long enough to scoop down to the bottom of the river, and your smelt will slip through the wide mesh in the net. Here's another word of advice--get your net during the off-season and don't wait until the next dip is announced. Sporting goods stores can and do sell out when a smelt dip is announced, so if you wait, you might have to drive far to get one, or you can make your own.

If you're interested in participating in the next smelt dip, you're probably wondering where to go. During the last dip, the boundaries were between the Tenant Way Bridge and the mouth of the North Fork Toutle River. This stretch of the Cowlitz River has ample public shore access. You can find a map of popular spots on WDFW's smelt web page, or strike out on your own (but be mindful of private property). You can expect to have company, so it's a good idea to show up an hour or so early to stake out your spot. Longview, Kelso, and Castle Rock all have gas stations and restrooms. There's a dock at the boat launch in Castle Rock, if you don't want to get your feet wet or risk falling in the river while navigating the steep riverbank.

Once you're at the river, pick your spot. As previously mentioned, riverbanks can be steep, not to mention thorny. Be careful not to trip or slide- no fish is worth a fall in the river! You can wear a life vest to be extra cautious and put life vests on any kids joining the adventure. If the fish are in, one spot is as good as any. Dip your net in the river and sweep through it with one fluid motion.

You want to go quickly enough so that the fish can't swim out of the net. You should be able to feel them hitting your net. Don't be afraid to drag against the bottom if you need to. Resist the temptation to net as far away from you as you can. Sometimes the fish are right up against the bank! Deposit your catch carefully in the bucket and keep weighing them to ensure you don't exceed your 10-pound limit. Like any other fish, put your catch in an iced cooler on the way home so that their meat stays fresh and firm.

I'll leave you with some interesting facts about Pacific Smelt. Just like salmon, they hatch in rivers and spend their lives at sea. They return to their home rivers to spawn when they're between 2 to 5 years old. Again, just like salmon, they're an oily fish. They're about 15% oil! They're also called “candlefish” because they will catch on fire if you hold them up to a lighter.

Sadly, they're considered an endangered species. Around the mid 90's, their populations began to sharply decline. WDFW closely monitors their return numbers and determines if they are healthy enough to support a recreational fishery. This year, we were lucky enough to get not one, but two smelt openers. The reason that our smelt fishery is so limited is to protect their sensitive populations. They are susceptible to overfishing, so to ensure that future generations get to enjoy this fishery, it is tightly regulated and monitored.

Be sure to follow the rules! Don't exceed your 10-pound per person limit, and only net the section of the river that is open. Carry a watch or check your phone so that you don't start dipping until the time WDFW specifies. Most importantly, have fun!

If ever there was a river world renowned for its beauty, versatility, and Gollum-like trophy steelhead, this is it. 

The Hoh River, from deep within the Olympic National Park, sourced from Mt. Olympus himself.

Floating north and west with a full mountain embrace, collecting headwater tributaries like badges of honor. A collection of blue and white glacial waters swirling under a canopy of fierce and protected old growth, this braided channel river looks to be strategically created. An art unto itself. Its milky slate blue waters, glisten like the eyes of a newborn.

The Hoh River flows 56 miles from its headwaters to the Pacific Ocean. The South Fork Hoh River is 17 river miles in length and enters the main stem at the Olympic National Park boundary at RM 30. The upper section of the Hoh watershed lies entirely within the Olympic National Park. The middle section of the river flows through state and industrial forest and valley homesteads. The Lower Hoh River encompasses the lower third of the watershed, 16 river miles from Highway 101 to the Pacific Ocean. 750 miles of tributaries flow into the river below ONP. Of these, 250 miles provide fish habitat. Numerous spring-fed terrace tributaries feed the Hoh River.

The Hoh River watershed is home to four species of wild salmon, steelhead, and many other fish and wildlife species.  Located at the mouth of the Hoh River, the tiny Hoh Indian Tribe or “Chalá·at” ("Those-Who-Live-on-the-Hoh River") are dependent on the fish and wildlife of the Hoh River for their subsistence and commercial economy. Protecting the watershed’s function is key to preserving these important resources, not only for the tribe, but also for fishing and recreational communities in nearby cities and towns, and up and down the coast.

Despite this river's status as one of the healthiest in the country, the Department of Fish and Wildlife has enacted severe restrictions on coastal steelhead fishing due to “low returns.” It was specifically focused on the long-term decline of coastal steelhead in the Queets and Quinault watersheds, Quillayute River system, Hoh River, and Willapa Bay River system.

Between December 1^st, 2023, and March 31^st, 2024 there are opportunities to fish from floating devices on the Hoh Sunday through Tuesday only from the Morgan’s Crossing boat launch downstream to the Washington Department of Natural Resources Hoh Oxbow Campground boat launch, and Wednesday through Saturday only from the Hoh Oxbow boat launch downstream to the Olympic National Park boundary near the mouth.  

Barbless single hook, catch and release only. This is a continuation of the WDFW implementation of the Statewide Steelhead Management Plan which requires the Department to prioritize the sustainability of wild coastal steelhead runs by focusing on healthy levels of abundance, productivity, diversity, and distribution.  

While these regulations are creeping onto every river in the state, if you are like me, it isn't necessarily a deterrent. There is more than just catching to all of this. It is the gorgeous scenery, the fresh air, the sun on my face and wind in my hair. Even the rain, which you should expect. 

Annual precipitation is 140 to 170 inches. The Hoh Rain Forest is one of the finest remaining examples of temperate rainforest in the United States. Giant Western Hemlock, Douglas-fir, Western Red Cedar, and Sitka Spruce dominate the landscape, while ferns and mosses cloak the trees and forest floor. This is a great reminder of why I am here, alive and a part of it all.

The Hoh River is what legends are born from, whether you are a conventional or a fly angler. From a bank or a boat, you are bound to have a great time. Prime fishing for winter Steelhead happens in February and March, though any time of the year the river is producing, depending on what you are fishing for.

If steelhead aren’t your thing, don’t worry – the Hoh boasts impressive salmon runs each year from late spring through fall and manages to sustain returning populations of both Chinook and coho salmon.

The early summer run of Chinook begins in May and is productive through about August.

The Coho run on the Hoh, like on all other Pacific Northwest rivers, occurs in the fall.

If you’re a salmon fan, fishing in the Hoh can be good from May through November, if the river stays open.

Resident trout are available in the river in addition to sea-run cutthroat that make their way up the river later in the summer and through the fall.

Where do you go from here? Do you prefer floating down the river with a seasoned guide? There are plenty of options. Hopefully, I'll have many more opportunities to meet some more awesome river guides but today I am going to throw a nod out to Pat Neal. (Hoh River Rafters)

With 35 years of experience, Pat has the Hoh River in his back pocket. He is a writer for the Peninsula Daily News and a published author. He is warm and funny, and made me feel completely at ease in conversation. One of my biggest hangups with float fishing is space and comfort, but I look forward to some solid adventures with this local gem.

If walking the banks is your thing, there are three DNR-managed campgrounds with river access and a lovely property called Hoh Valley Cabins ( Hoh Valley Cabins). The Peterson family are descendants of some old-timey pioneers; their family property covers about 500 acres and over a mile of riverfront with access to the river.

In this age of river closures and limited opportunities, we are lucky to have one of the last strongholds of Winter Steelhead right in our backyard. Observe where you can fish, do not encroach on tribal land, and always check the rules and regulations prior to embarking.

Of the many rivers in the beautiful state of Washington, the Sol Duc is one that can manage to keep just about everyone happy. Whether you fly fish, spin, or bait cast, there is, or at least was, a fish with your name on it!

Fish species on the Sol Duc include Fall and Summer Chinook, Winter and Summer Steelhead, Coho, Sockeye, and both resident and sea-run cutthroat trout. The Sol Duc River runs 78 miles from the Olympic Mountains and cuts Southwestward through the most spectacular scenery in Washington State. With a variety of access points, you'll be greeted by precipitous gulches and mossy rocks in vivid green tones set a fire by the angle of the sun.

Picture perfect moments around every corner. The river is a pleasure whether you're catching or not. Just to be there, to catch a glimpse of an ancient creature born of the gravelly riverbeds. Traveling their way through genetic imprinting, magnetic fields, the temperatures, and conditions of the earth, making a 70-mile journey into the unknown.

What is it that ensures a fish can find its way back to the place it was born? When I can't even find my way home without an app. An interesting factoid, scientists have discovered fish have ear stones called otoliths. These “otoliths” incorporate chemical elements from the water as the fish grow and move. Picture a growth band of a tree, with each ring recording a chemical map of where the fish has been, how long they stayed there, and how fast they grew. Scientific advances like this are pivotal in managing fish populations.

I have a deep concern and respect for the natural world, a curiosity for things we can and cannot explain. A desire to be a part of it all, to get my hands dirty and my mind clean. So, while we still can, I will travel my own way, finding places that provide an opportunity to get my line wet.

My most noteworthy experience would be a fantastic stay at the “Cabin on the Middle run” in Forks. (olympicpeninsulawaterfrontcabins.com) Easily accessible and found off 101, this well-appointed, clean and cozy cedar cabin boasts everything you need and more. For me it was the stocked kitchen and comfortable beds, topped off with a long hot shower. Though, I must admit we spent most of our time in the backyard. Our hosts and neighbors were so very friendly and helpful. Which isn't always the case when you're fishing in someone's backyard. We were rooted on and engaged in friendly conversations with guides floating by and neighbors on their decks. When I lost a huge dazzling Coho the echoes of disappointment hummed through the valley.

The comradery of fishing is something you'll never understand, until you feel it. Like a Folie à deux, are we driven by madness or passion and is there really a difference? Whatever it is, that makes us feel hyped up by each other's experiences, it is infectious and exhilarating. I desperately hope the rivers will return to a place where we can enjoy catching at least one fish. Not just for the fun, but also for the food. Nothing beats a filet from the river. I have become so spoiled by the flavor of a fresh catch, commercially sourced just doesn’t make the cut.

Make sure you check all regulations before heading out these days. Low returns have caused a system-wide closure in the Quillayute river system. This system includes the Sol Duc, Bogachiel, Calawah, Dickey, Sitkum Rivers and Thunder Creek.

As heartbreaking as these closures are, they are necessary to ensure that our rivers can support humans and the local ecosystem. I admit, a mix of resentment but also understanding that the system works to protect, preserve, and perpetuate fish and wildlife.

As a fisherwoman, my recreational opportunities are last in line and that is ok. Will this closure stop me from enjoying the beautiful Olympic rainforest and its awe-inspiring rivers? Never! I will plant my feet in the forest, hike to the waterfalls and sit my soul quietly by the river. Waiting my turn.

Washington State, known for its stunning landscapes and diverse outdoor activities, offers a unique and thrilling experience for anglers during the winter months, Ice Fishing. As the temperatures drop and the lakes freeze over, enthusiasts from all over gather their gear and head to some of the state's most picturesque frozen waters. In this article, we’ll dive into the icy wonderland of 5 lakes that stand out as prime destinations for ice fishing in Washington: Curlew Lake, Bead Lake, Sacheen Lake, Banks Lake, and Eloika Lake.

Curlew Lake: A Frozen Oasis In The Northeast

Curlew Lake, nestled more in the Northcentral portion of the state, transforms into a winter wonderland, drawing anglers seeking a tranquil ice fishing experience. The lake spans over 900 acres and is surrounded by snow-covered mountains and hills, creating a beautiful backdrop to your frozen adventure.

The lake is home to a variety of fish, with Rainbow Trout and Yellow Perch being the most sought-after during the winter months. Anglers often set up shanties or their ice fishing spots right outside the state park patiently waiting for the telltale signs of the fish below, which doesn't take long. The vast mud flat just outside the park holds amazing numbers and is easy to get into. The camaraderie among anglers and the stunning scenery make Curlew Lake a must-visit destination for any Ice Fishing aficionado.

Bead Lake: A Hidden Gem in The North Mts.

Nestled in the North of Spokane Mountains, Bead Lake is a hidden gem that offers a secluded and serene ice fishing experience. The lake, surrounded by dense forests and snow-covered peaks, provides a pristine setting for anglers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Bead Lake is known for its healthy population of Kokanee, and the popular large lake trout that roams the depths. As large marks appear on your sonar, don't be surprised if it's not a laker, but a monster of a burbot making this lake an enticing destination for those seeking a variety of catches. As you set up your gear on the frozen expanse of Bead Lake, the quietude and natural beauty will transport you to a world of tranquility, making each catch a memorable moment.

Sacheen Lake: Serenity and Splendor In Pend Oreille County

Located in Pend Oreille County, Sacheen Lake offers a charming blend of serenity and splendor during the winter months. Surrounded by evergreen forests and snow-covered hills, the lake becomes a haven for ice-fishing enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape. 

Sacheen Lake is known for its panfish, including perch and crappie, which are abundant and fun to chase. Also, fun to target nice trout under the ice as well, with good chances of catching! Rainbow, Brook, and Tiger Trout provide excellent opportunities for ice anglers to enjoy a variety of catches. As you drill your fishing holes and set up your equipment, take a moment to absorb the quiet tranquility of Sacheen Lake, where the only sounds are the soft crunch of snow beneath your boots and the occasional call of a winter bird.

Banks Lake: A Vast Frozen Playground in Central Washington

For those looking for a more expensive ice fishing experience, Banks Lake in Central Washington is a prime destination. This reservoir spans close to 27,000 acres and is known for its diverse fish population, including Walleye, Rainbow Trout, Burbot, and Whitefish which are the most popular to go after.

Ice fishing on Banks Lake is a social affair at times, with clusters of anglers setting up their shanties in popular spots and many staying overnight. The vast frozen expanse provides ample opportunities for exploration, and to get away from the crowds if needed. As the sun sets over the snow-covered horizon, the frozen lake transforms into a canvas of colors. Banks Lake is not only a haven for anglers, but also a visual spectacle that captivates the senses. 

Elokia Lake: An Ice Anglers Original

Nestled in the heart of Northeastern Washington State, Elokia Lake transforms into a winter wonderland for avid ice fishing enthusiasts. As temperatures drop, the lake's icy surface becomes a haven for those seeking the thrill of angling beneath a blanket of snow.

Eloika Lakes expands over 600 acres, providing ample space for ice fishermen to explore its frozen expanses. One of the primary draws for anglers is the diverse range of fish species that inhabit this lake. Brown Trout, Rainbow Trout, Large-mouth Bass, Perch, Crappie, and Sunfish. Seems that Crappie are what attracts most ice anglers. 

The savvy ice anglers will target the Brown and Rainbow Trout early season just a couple of feet below the ice and near creek outlets. Eloika’s cold waters create an ideal environment for these fish. Anglers can also test their skills against the Large-mouth bass, known for their elusive behavior even in freezing temperatures, and they are big in this lake, especially on an ice rod. 

Yellow Perch and Crappie add a variety to the fishing experience at Eloika. These panfish offer more of a relaxing angling experience, making the lake suitable for seasoned veterans and beginners alike. Perch are abundant and make sure to check the regulations for the Crappie size and limit.

As ice fishing shelters and anglers dot the frozen landscape, camaraderie flourishes among anglers who gather to share stories and tips. Eloika Lakes icy embrace beckons, offering a unique and thrilling experience for those willing to brave the cold pursuit and snag the perfect catch!

By Hannah Pennebaker

In all my years of fishing, I have heard many legends and stories about fishing at the infamous Brewster Pool. Articles on the Internet caution readers about hostile fishermen and hundreds of inexperienced boaters creating chaos.

My own experience couldn’t have been further from these stories. This year, I was lucky enough to get the opportunity to film and participate in the derby on behalf of Northwest Fishing.

From the moment I got to Brewster, I was blown away by the friendly locals and energetic atmosphere of the derby. Other fishermen were giving each other high fives and complementing one another on their catches.

This was far from the stories of combat fishing and fishermen yelling at one another that I had heard. Although there were hundreds of other boats out there, everyone was very patient and gave one another plenty of space. Guides and recreational fishermen alike were joking with one another and having a great time doing the sport we all love.

I saw hundreds of beautiful fish caught and weighed in over the 3 days of the derby, and even got to reel in some of my own. Here’s the story of my experience at this year’s Brewster Salmon Derby.

On day 1, Mike Mauk, the president of the Brewster Chamber of Commerce, greeted me with a warm handshake and a big smile. Mike organized this year’s derby, bringing together dozens of sponsors and coordinating prizes and staffing for the event.

He gladly took some time from his busy schedule to chat, and I interviewed him about the history of the derby and the town of Brewster. He told me that the proceeds from ticket sales go towards helping the community of Brewster and enabling them to run the derby year after year.

The Brewster Salmon Derby is the largest derby on the Columbia River, and up to $20,000 in cash and prizes are given out every year.

Next, I interviewed the derby weigh master, Ernie Mauk. Ernie brought incredible energy to the weigh station, high fiving each kid that brought a fish to him. He showed me how he weighs each fish, taking the girth and length measurements and calling them out to be recorded and put on the board. He said that even though he weighs hundreds of fish every year, he still admires the beauty of each and every fish he weighs.

WDFW also had a presence at the weigh station, scanning the fish for tags. When they found a tagged fish, they cut the nose of the fish off to remove the tag (after making sure the fisherman had gotten all the pictures they wanted).

They let me know that the information they get from the tag helps WDFW determine the health and abundance of salmon populations. Not only does the derby help the small community of Brewster, it also aids WDFW’s research and provides valuable insights into this amazing fishery.

While getting to see the ins and outs of the weigh station was certainly a fascinating experience, fishing is truly my passion, and my experience participating in the derby was absolutely unforgettable. Brianna Bruce of Livin’ Life Adventures was our guide during our 3-day adventure.

My friend Michael Francisco, my fiancé Chris Decker, and Northwest Fishing regulars Andrew and Joe Czapla were on board. Brianna (Bree) kept us entertained with dozens of fishing stories from her 11 years of guiding.

She told us all about the fishery and what makes it so productive and popular. Every year, thousands of sockeye and chinook salmon stage in Lake Pateros, also known as the Brewster Pool, between the dam and the mouth of the Okanogan River.

The mouth of the Okanogan River heats up and creates a thermal barrier, and the fish wait in the pool for it to cool down so they can enter and reach their spawning grounds. This year, Bree said there were over 100,000 sockeye in the pool! Good numbers of chinook are caught every year, some reaching over 30 pounds. Some fishermen got their limits of sockeye and headed back to town for breakfast before the heat of the day began.

Others stayed out until 6PM, braving the heat for a chance at a derby winning chinook. There was a 4 fish limit for sockeye, and a 2 fish limit for chinook. The bite seemed best in the early hours of the morning, but there were fish caught all day. Bree’s dog, Waylon, was our bite alarm throughout the weekend. Every other fisherman in the pool knew when we hooked onto a fish!

Bree alternated between steering around other boats, netting fish, baiting hooks, and swapping fishing stories, making it all look easy. Her natural talent, great humor, and mastery of the fishery made for an unforgettable experience.

On day 2, one of our cameramen had a big, feisty sockeye on the end of his line. As he brought it up to the boat, he lifted the fish out of the water and the hooks popped out. Our hearts sank, but Bree effortlessly scooped the fish into the net and saved the day!

We started off fishing for chinook the first day, armed with spinners and chrome flashers. Bree is an expert in this fishery, and told us that sockeye often hit chinook gear, and vice versa. The second day, we fished sockeye gear, and were rewarded with many nice fish.

For her sockeye gear, Bree ran homemade pink spinners and smaller flashers. On the third day of the derby, we fished a combination of sockeye and chinook gear. She ran 2 spinners, 2 sockeye setups, and 2 tuna stuffed Brad’s Super Baits.

It was tough to find the right speed to get the different gear to fish right, but like a true pro, Bree made it work. We trolled slowly, between .8 and 1.2 MPH, and kept an eye on the depth. To avoid tangling our 6 lines, Bree used a variety of different cannonball weights, which also allowed us to fish throughout the water column.

No matter how tired and hot we were after fishing all day, we always looked forward to lunch at one of Brewster’s amazing, locally owned restaurants. Mike Mauk and the Brewster Chamber of Commerce treated us to lunch and dinner each day.

The sizzling, fragrant fajitas at Campreros were absolutely delicious! Later in the afternoons, we usually got some time to explore the area each day. I was surprised by just how much the town of Brewster has to offer.

There are numerous family-owned stores that offer cool refreshments and homemade snacks. If you’re fishing the Brewster Pool, it’s definitely worth it to take the time to sample some of the local cuisine and explore the town.

On day 3 of our adventure, we got to see the winners of the derby take home their prizes and win their bragging rights. The winning fish, the “king of the pool”, was a tank of a chinook weighing in at 29 pounds and 10 ounces that got the winning angler a nice check for $2,000.

The top 10 winners got a beautiful wooden plaque to commemorate their win. One of the most memorable parts of the weekend was when a young girl weighed in a 26-pound chinook. She ended up winning the youth category of the derby!

Besides the competition for the top 25 biggest chinook, there were also side pots and a raffle to take part in. There were many raffle prizes, such as free fishing trips for 4 people, a bow, and a downrigger.

The grand prize for the raffle was a 9.9 HP Mercury outboard motor. Weigh master Ernie announced the winners, and photographer Cori Kogan snapped photos of them holding their prize next to Mike Mauk.

All 3 days of my experience at the Brewster Salmon Derby culminated into an unforgettable adventure. From Mike Mauk’s warm welcome to Bree’s terrific netting skills and incredible sense of humor, I’ll always tell stories about the derby with a smile. I know I’ll be back next year for another shot at winning the derby! 

@hannahNWF on Facebook and Instagram

By Josh DeBruler

As summer winds to an end, readers are likely anticipating glorious tales of monster sized salmon bending rod tips over the sides of boats, while adrenaline filled anglers run about with nets in hand, hoping to assist a buddy in bringing the big-one aboard for a well earned grip-and grin photo of a lifetime.

This story, regretfully, does not end in such a manner. The story does, however, dispel some myths about importance of boat size, shares some boating safety advice that pertains to smaller boats, and ends with a nice haul of tasty fish (the type that are more suited for a fryer rather than a smoker).

It was Saturday morning in the Sekiu village, and the gentle waves of the incoming tide at Clallum bay woke me in my tent at Masons Marina.

Thick marine fog typically blankets the waters from Sekiu to Neah Bay during the summer mornings, however, the start to this day greeted me with glassy calm seas, and blue skies that extended from Masons marina, all the way north, across the straits, and to the mountainous shores of Victoria B.C.

It was perfect weather, and it helped ease the nerves that had been accumulating over the past two days as I obsessed about all of the things that could possibly go wrong in a small boat out on the big water.

My boat is a V-hull 2008 14’ Smoker Craft Pro Mag with a 20 HP Honda. It’s a good little boat, equipped with a live well, an electric trolling motor, navigation lights, and a backup 6 hp Suzuki that I keep onboard in case of emergencies.

I take her out often, with most of my destinations being on the Puget Sound, Hood Canal, and various lakes in my region. But, as with many others that own boats similar to mine, the thought of taking a small boat out onto water that behaves a lot like the ocean never really crossed my mind.

Boating is fun, until it isn’t. And I’ve always figured it was better to avoid a bad situation than to plop myself directly into one. It wasn’t until I was on the Hood Canal that a friend told me about Sekiu, and how anglers were easily catching their limits of chinook and coho up there, that I began to put more thought into the idea.

Thus, a seed was planted. As I researched and asked around, I found that it was actually quite common to take smaller boats out around Clallum bay. In fact, 14’ kicker boats were at one time the most common sport-fishing boats seen on the water.

At least, that was the case in the 1940’s, when most people weren’t towing around larger boats and instead opted to rent the 14 footers from the marinas. The marinas still rent boats of this size today, most of them equipped with 15 HP outboards.

Sekiu is the quintessential small fishing town. It has two main marinas (both with campgrounds), a handful of motels, a cafe, a restaurant, and plenty of fishing tackle. The town got it start as a salmon cannery back in the late 1800’s, but after regulations ceased to allow commercial fishing, the cannery business crashed, and Sekiu had to look to other industries like logging, hide tanning, and sport fishing.

The latter of the three being the one that worked, and oh did it work well. The fishing is world-class, and seldom will you find anywhere outside of Alaska that has this type of salmon and other saltwater fishing. The unincorporated community is situated right inside Clallum bay, in the northwestern portion of the Strait of Juan De fuca.

The bay itself, and just west of the bay, enjoys decent protection from S,SW,W, and NW winds. Once you head further towards the ocean or out north into the open water, you become more exposed to the common west and northwesterly winds.

Luckily, you will find excellent fishing near-shore, or without having to travel too far west in the direction of the ocean. In fact, most fisherman catch their limits of salmon just west of the bay near what is known as “the Caves”.

Two main summer-run salmon routes exist in the area, and those two routes follow near shore on the Canada side and near shore on the Washington side. This is an ideal situation for a small boat fisherman who doesn’t want to venture too far out into the open water.

When I motored out of the marina that first morning, I was a day behind on my already limited schedule. This had me fishing on an odd numbered day of the month. At the time, odd days were closed to salmon retention due to emergency regulations set by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

This meant that fishing for salmon that day was out of the picture. However, in Marine Area 4, just northwest of me, lingcod, rockfish, and other bottom dwellers were all very much on the table! To get to these, I had to run about 5 miles west to Shipwreck Point just east of Neah Bay.

So, with calm waters on my port side, I gunned it west towards the MA-4 boundary line. The swell and wind forecast for that day were predicted to be favorable up until around 1pm, and so far, the predictions seemed to be holding up.

My little boat planed quite nicely heading out with the ebb tide and gracefully skipped over the rolling swells. My first “yikes” moment occurred when I approached Kaydaka point. This large point that sits roughly 2 miles from the marina brings underwater structure out into the straits, and as a result, kicks up the wave height significantly.

Though the increased wave size didn’t pose a significant threat to me, I still figured it was a good idea to run a bit further offshore to avoid the turbulence. It’s worth noting that points like these can present sea conditions that might not be tolerable for particularly small boats during rougher conditions.

The bottom fishing was hot within minutes of being inside the MA 4 boundary.

I fished a 2 oz jig head with a pearl white double tailed grub over some structure, and within minutes I was into some fish. A few good-sized lingcod found my hook, along with several rockfish and a beautiful cabezon that fought like a bull! All in all, the day was a success.

I won’t bore you with the details of my next morning’s salmon trolling trip. I only had an hour to get it done, and let’s just say I’m still eating last season’s silvers from my freezer (and yes, some of it’s looking a little freezer burnt). But the success was had in that I made it back to the marina both days in one piece.

This wasn’t accomplished in a 30’ fishing boat that’s worth more than my life savings- nope, this was done in 14’ aluminum boat with a small engine and an even smaller backup.

Small Boat Safety

Now, let’s talk the important stuff. Small boat safety. Is it safe to take a small aluminum boat onto the straits? It certainly can be! There are inherent risks that come with any type of boating, regardless of the boat size or the water that you are on.

Risk assessment, risk avoidance, and preparation are all key components to keeping you safe on the water.

DISCLAIMER: I am by no means, an expert on boating safety. All I can do is share what works for me and what I have learned myself.

My first bit of safety prep comes well before I arrive at the marina. Fortunately for me, I have a work schedule that affords me the liberty to plan my trips around weather windows, so I’ll start by looking for consistently fair weather in the long-range forecasts.

As I get closer to my desired departure dates, I’ll home in on the NOAA webpage and start looking at wind directions and speed, wind waves, then swell predictions (paying close attention to wave period or duration), and then tide charts. It’s important to know how wind, swell, and tide currents all work together to cause either rough or manageable conditions.

I don’t have the page space to get into that here, but there are plenty of resources available online for anybody who wants to educate themselves on the nuances of ocean behavior. The calm waters typically occur in the morning, so be up and ready before sunrise.

If the winds are predicted to pick up, say, by 1pm, then I’ll be heading back to the marina at least 2 hours before those winds are predicted to occur.

Safety Equipment

Before I leave the docks I want to make sure I have life jackets (I carry an auto-inflate and a standard), a waterproof radio, working navigations lights, at least two GPS devices, a manual bilge pump in case my auto fails, a well-tuned and properly functioning outboard motor, a backup kicker, flare gun, an air- horn, and a reflector to hang up in case of dense fog.

Aside from these things, I also try to scout out beaches nearby that would be suitable for beaching my boat in case a situation calls for it. This is definitely a last-ditch option, as the risk of damaging the boat on rocks is very present.

So, will I be taking my boat my boat out to Sekiu again? Absolutely! I already have my next trip planned! Do larger boats afford more comfort and protection in the event you get stuck in some adverse conditions?

They absolutely do. But, if a capable small boat is all that you have, and you have educated yourself on all the safety measures necessary, then there is no reason for you to wait till you get that 100k boat to go have some fun and catch fish in arguably the most productive fishing grounds in our region.