Salmon Season in Washington | When and Where to Catch Salmon
The Ultimate Guide to Salmon Season in Washington
Few places in the world rival Washington State when it comes to salmon fishing.
From the open Pacific coast to the calm, scenic waters of Puget Sound, this is where generations of anglers have chased silver flashes and screaming reels.
And while Washington’s salmon runs vary throughout the year, the good news is — there’s almost always a species to target.
Whether you’re a local planning your next weekend trip or a visitor dreaming of your first Pacific Northwest salmon, here’s everything you need to know about salmon seasons, species, and where to fish them.
When Is Salmon Season in Washington?
Washington’s salmon seasons are set by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) each spring, and exact dates can shift slightly from year to year. Generally speaking:
- Summer (June–October) — Peak season for adult salmon returning from the ocean.
- Fall (September–November) — Strong Coho (Silver) runs across Puget Sound and coastal rivers.
- Winter (November–April) — The Blackmouth season: resident juvenile Chinook feeding in Puget Sound.
- Spring (April–May) — Early Chinoock in selet areas and the first hint of coastal action.
On Puget Sound, the main season opens June 1 through November 15, with select areas open in winter for Blackmouth.
Washington’s Main Salmon Species
Understanding which salmon are running — and when — makes all the difference.
Chinook (King Salmon)
The heavyweight of the Pacific, Kings are prized for their power and flavor.
- Peak Season: June through August (Summer Kings)
- Average Size: 15–25 lbs (sometimes over 30!)
- Where: Puget Sound, coastal waters, and select rivers
- Tip: Seattle’s saltwater Chinook season offers world-class action just minutes from downtown.
Coho (Silver Salmon)
Fast, aggressive, and spectacular fighters that leap when hooked.
- Peak Season: Late July through October
- Average Size: 6–12 lbs
- Where: Puget Sound, the coast, and major river systems like the Snohomish and Skagit
- Tip: Known for nonstop action — perfect for visiting anglers and families.
Pink Salmon (Humpies)
The every-other-year favorite that delivers non-stop fun.
- Peak Years: Odd-numbered years (2025, 2027, etc.)
- Peak Season: Late July through early September
- Average Size: 3–6 lbs
- Where: Puget Sound and nearby rivers
- Tip: Best choice for beginners and kids — big numbers and lots of bites.
Blackmouth (Winter Chinook)
Juvenile Chinook that remain in Puget Sound year-round.
- Peak Season: November through April
- Average Size: 5–10 lbs
- Where: Puget Sound only
- Tip: A local favorite for off-season salmon fishing in calm, protected waters.
Where to Fish for Salmon in Washington
From the Pacific coast to Puget Sound, salmon migrate through almost every corner of Washington’s waters.
Puget Sound — Seattle, Everett, Tacoma
Calm, scenic, and rich with year-round salmon opportunities. You can fish here without long drives or ocean swells — making it the most accessible fishery in the state.
- Best For: King, Coho, Pink, and Blackmouth
- Departure Point: Shilshole Bay Marina, Ballard (Seattle)
- Bonus: Wildlife sightings — orcas, eagles, sea lions, and the Seattle skyline as your backdrop.
The Washington Coast — Neah Bay, Westport, Ilwaco
Home to strong ocean runs of Chinook and Coho. These are full-day trips in open ocean conditions, popular with serious anglers.
- Best For: Early summer to fall salmon migrations.
Rivers — Skagit, Snohomish, Cowlitz, Columbia
Rivers provide world-famous freshwater salmon runs, especially in fall. These trips often require specialized river guides and permits.
Experience Washington’s Salmon Season from Seattle
If you’re visiting Washington and want to fish without long travel or rough water, Seattle’s Puget Sound is your best bet. With Fish Finders Private Charters, you can:
- Depart just minutes from downtown Seattle
- Fish in calm, protected saltwater (no ocean swells) close to the actiont.
- Choose from shared or private charters
- Enjoy expert local captains who’ve fished these waters their entire lives
It’s the easiest, most accessible way to experience salmon season in Washington — and one of the most memorable.
Why Salmon Season Here Feels Different
Fishing Puget Sound isn’t just about catching fish — it’s about being part of the landscape.
As the morning sun lights up the Seattle skyline and mist hangs over the Olympic Mountains, you’ll drop your line into waters that have been home to salmon runs for centuries.
Every trip feels connected to something bigger: a natural rhythm that defines life in the Pacific Northwest.
It’s not just fishing. It’s the story of Washington’s coast, told one salmon at a time.
