The Fishing Corner

By Larry Dublanko

Mid-summer fishing usually means some traveling. People travel to our region, and Harborites travel to other areas for fishing variety.

At this time of the year, anglers are attracted to Grays Harbor for what the ocean offers. The biggest attraction in July has been pursuing salmon on the blue water. Fishing for bottom fish has become a very popular fishery in recent years.

Fishing the surf or jetty is always an attraction for beach travelers. There is an abundance of such fish and anglers are pleased when they make a hook up.

Our coastal rivers are always an attraction for anglers pursuing the illusive steelhead. It is not uncommon to find anglers up and down the coastal region from far away places.

When it comes to inland salmon fishing at this time, the attention shifts to the Willapa Bay area. This year the bay was scheduled to open Aug. 1. Anglers will be able to retain three adult salmon, one of which may be a coho. Anglers will be allowed to keep one wild silver in this fishery.

Our lakes are not a huge attraction during the summer except perhaps when camping at Lake Sylvia. This year-round fishery at a state park is always stocked with catchable rainbows and promotes the complete camping experience.

Folk from Grays Harbor have been known to explore other fisheries statewide in the summer. Some examples for Western Washington include Mayfield Lake, Lake Crescent and Lake Cushman to name a few. There are other fishing options along the South Puget Sound.

Bass fisherman tend to travel. Roosevelt Lake is a huge attraction in this regard. There is excellent Walleye fishing in this body of water as well. Lake Chelan provides options which include trout and kokanee. The Potholes in Moses Lake are a fishing destination for many Harborites.

If fly fishing is a must, there is none better than Rocky Ford Creek and Ponds in Grant County. This year-round stream is a catch-and-release fishery which is fly fishing only.

Of course, it would be a mistake to overlook the Columbia River. Here the angler is going to find big fresh fish. These fish are usually pursued from a boat, but anglers have been known to do well from the bank as well. The options are endless when it comes to summer travel combined with fishing opportunities.

A little pre-planning can make these adventures very successful. Fishing is a big deal in our state and a huge summer past time for many families.

More exotic travels may take one to Alaska. Fishing in 24-hour daylight is an experience to behold. This fishery is a tourist industry which accommodates your salmon catch well.

Others have spent time in the interior of British Columbia. Their lakes boost of enormous size trout. In these cases, cabins are available for rent and all recreational apparatus is furnished.

Summer is travel time for many. Taking the time to make a memory and adventure with the family is priceless.