TLDR;
This YouTube video by Anglers Unlimited provides a comprehensive guide to coho fishing, covering topics such as coho behavior, gear and techniques, identification of different salmon species, and fishing regulations. It also touches on community resources for anglers and upcoming events.
- Coho salmon, also known as silvers, are acrobatic and fun to catch, with August and September being peak season.
- Anglers can use the Salmonscape tool to identify coho streams and target them in areas like the San Juan Islands.
- Rigs, including hoochies and squids, and bait are effective, and anglers should adjust their gear based on the depth at which the fish are located.
Introduction to Coho Fishing [0:00]
Scott and Jamie introduce the topic of coho fishing, highlighting that the season opens in August and extends through September. They plan to discuss gear, locations, and events around the islands. The episode will cover the science behind coho returns, current and tide conditions, and identification of coho among the five salmon species. Coho, also known as silvers, are known for their acrobatic behavior and aggressive bites, making them a fun catch. This year is also a pink year, offering opportunities to catch smaller fish, ideal for beginners.
Coho Salmon Behavior and Characteristics [1:15]
Coho are known for being fun to catch but also for their tendency to get away more often than other species. August and September are peak seasons for coho, as they migrate from the Pacific Ocean through the Strait of Juan de Fuca and into the Salish Sea towards their natal rivers.
Community and Resources for Anglers [2:52]
The hosts promote their inner circle community, emphasizing the benefits of sharing reports and tips with other anglers to improve fishing skills. They introduce Salmonscape, an interactive tool that identifies streams with documented salmon presence and spawning. By using the tool, anglers can identify coho streams and understand where the fish are migrating.
Using Interactive Tools for Fishing [3:36]
The hosts explain how to use the Salmonscape website to find specific rivers and streams with documented coho presence. By selecting "fish distribution" and then "coho streams" on the interactive map, users can see highlighted rivers and streams. The legend provides color codings to understand the data. This tool helps anglers visualize where the fish are going and plan their fishing locations.
Targeting Coho Salmon [5:18]
The Puget Sound forecast indicates a slight increase in coho returns this year. The San Juan Islands act as a funnel for salmon, making it a prime fishing location. Shore fishing can also be productive, with anglers catching pinks and coho at Deception Pass. For boat fishing, using a banana weight with a dodger or flasher and a lure or bait works well. Coho tend to be in the higher water column, so anglers should start fishing shallower, around 90 feet, and adjust based on where the fish are hitting.
Fishing Regulations and Best Practices [10:26]
Anglers should double-check regulations, noting that there is no minimum size for coho. When fishing, it's beneficial to watch the sonar to find bait balls and stacks of fish. Finding coho often means finding a large group, leading to multiple catches.
Coho vs. Other Salmon Species [11:09]
The hosts discuss the taste and quality of coho compared to other salmon species like kings and sockeye. Coho are known for their bright red fillets and excellent taste.
Tying Fishing Rigs [11:59]
The hosts share a video demonstrating how to tie two-hook rigs for herring or hoochies. They recommend using 30 to 40 lb leader line and owner hooks, with a size three hook in the front and a size four in the back. The process involves wrapping the line around the hook multiple times and securing it tightly. The distance between the hooks can be adjusted based on the size of the herring or hoochie being used.
Rigging Techniques for Coho Fishing [12:22]
The video continues with a demonstration of how to rig a squid with a Mylar insert and red hooks. The Mylar insert adds attraction, and the red hooks are believed to be visually appealing to the fish. The leader length is adjusted to about 38 inches, suitable for use behind a flasher.
Final Adjustments and Preparations [13:39]
The presenter details the final steps in preparing a coho rig, including attaching a bead chain and selecting a flasher. Personal preference plays a role in flasher color choice. The completed rig, with a leader length of about 38 inches, is ready for testing. Herring strips can be added for extra attraction.
Identifying Different Salmon Species [21:56]
The hosts discuss how to identify different salmon species, referencing the WDFW rules and regulations book. Key features for identifying Chinook salmon include large black spots on the back and tail, and a dark mouth. Coho, in contrast, have a white gum line and fewer spots on the tail, typically on the upper lobe. Pink salmon have larger, out-of-focus spots on the tail and scales that easily fall off.
Best Practices for Releasing Fish [24:10]
The hosts emphasize the importance of properly identifying fish before keeping them and recommend releasing fish if there is any doubt about their legality. They advise keeping the fish in the net and in the water while identifying them.
Popular Fishing Spots [25:14]
The hosts share popular coho fishing spots, including Eagle Point, Pile Point, and Open Bay on the west side of San Juan Island. They mention that the area just off Salmon Bank, in deeper water, is a productive spot. West Beach, near Deception Pass, can also be a good location.
Fishing Limits and Regulations [26:11]
The fishing limits are two coho (hatchery or wild) and two additional pinks, totaling four fish per person. After September 7, anglers can keep wild coho as well.
Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events [27:08]
The hosts ask viewers to share their favorite coho fishing rigs in the comments. They promote the Resurrection Derby and the Bellingham Bay King Derby, encouraging listeners to purchase tickets. They thank viewers for tuning in and wish them tight lines.