What Anglers Can Expect While Fishing Washington's Saltwater Frontier
It was mid-June, and we rolled into Neah Bay just before evening. Our scenery was fishing boats packed into the marina and the heavy smell of fireworks, as the local kids ran the waterfront. Surrounded by lush rainforest and steep cliffs, the village sat within the Makah Reservation and served as a hub for recreational and tribal fishing. June marks the start of the busiest season here. As waters warm and baitfish like sand lance, herring, and anchovies flood the area, predators follow in force. From the protected inshore waters of the Strait to the jagged pinnacles and kelp beds offshore of Cape Flattery, anglers have options for nearly every style of saltwater fishing imaginable. So we got some sleep, cause early the next morning we had a meeting at the dock with Captain Fred Walker of SeaWalker Charters.
Waking up early to the smells and sounds of the harbor is something I love. Walking down to the boat, seeing all the hustle and bustle so early, watching everyone load gear, and exchanging stories will get you excited for the day. Finding the "SeaWalker" boat was easy, and the captain and deckhand were eager and ready to go. Our captain for the day was Captain Fred Walker, and he had one of the cleanest and most organized boats and operations, which immediately put us at ease, knowing we were in good hands. Not to mention he's been fishing these waters for over 30 years. The top-notch Kingfisher boat was loaded with the highest quality of gear. From the Tanacom electric reels to the Custom Prolite Rods, we had everything from mooching, trolling, and bottom fishing covered. And he and his deckhand, Max, take safety very seriously, and the success comes with it.
●Lingcod And Rockfish
As we motored out, we were anywhere from 50-60 miles from shore and had everything prepared for the long day. Neah Bay is legendary for bottomfish, and June is prime time. Lingcod are aggressive and plentiful, often lurking around rocky reefs, underwater pinnacles, and kelp edges. These toothy predators just hammer the jigs, or whatever offerings you're presenting, with equal enthusiasm. It's not unusual for anglers to catch their 2 keeper-sized lings in a day, along with a chance at a true trophy over 30lbs. Rockfish, both black and yelloweye, fill out the action, providing near consistent bites for those dropping smaller spoons and jigs into the schools, making them furious while filling limits quickly. With daily limits generous compared to other parts, anglers can usually count on a cooler of rockfish to complement those lingcods.
●Halibut
By June, Washington's Halibut season is still underway, though regulations shift year to year. When opened, halibut is a major draw. Neah Bay is one of the few places in the state where anglers can run relatively short distances offshore to productive halibut grounds. Places like Swiftsure Bank and areas West of Tatoosh Island hold halibut ranging from 20lbs "chickens" to "barn door" halibut topping 100+ pounds. Fishing for halibut here is not only an exercise for the body, but an exercise in patience and persistence. Heavy lead and big baits waiting for the unmistakable thump of a halibut inhaling your offering. The payoff, however, is unmatched table fair and a true trophy to catch. Couldn't be more thankful for Captain Fred having them Tanacom 750 reels on board to winch up these flatfish from the depths of 380ft-500ft.
●Salmon
June is often the month when salmon begin filtering into the region. Chinook (Kings) are the headliners, while the main summer salmon season in Neah Bay typically kicks off later in July. Early arrivals show up in June, especially along kelp lines and nearshore structure, where we seemed to find ours. These early-season Kings are strong, chrome bright, and are prized by many anglers. Mooching can be a very exciting way to fish; having the knuckle-busting action can be just part of the fun. Coho may also be appearing offshore, although they are usually more prevalent in July and August. For those lucky enough to hook up in June, Coho provide acrobatic fights, and a taste you'll return for.
(Also, don't forget the opportunity for Albacore Tuna in late June, depending on water temps)
●Tactics And Techniques
•Bottomfish: Most anglers target lingcod and rockfish by jigging heavy spoons or jigs tipped with bait or soft plastics near rocky structure. Larger, similar profiles work very well for lingcod. GPS and electronics definitely help you stay directly on productive reefs and rocky structures.
•Halibut: Halibut set-ups typically consist of a stout rod, like the Prolites we used specifically for the bottom fishing. Heavy-duty reel, like a Tanacom, is ideal for the depths, matched with a quality braided line. Often drifting over humps and flats, bouncing pipe jigs and larger offerings, tipped with herring, squid, scents, drawing in fish at depths of 200-500 feet.
•Salmon: When targeting salmon, trolling is the go-to method. Downriggers with flashers and hoochies, spoons, or herring rigs dominate the setup. Inshore, mooching with different offerings can be deadly, particularly when schools of bait are thick near kelp lines. Definitely a "Knuckle Busting" Mooching reel can be so fun, and very sporty at times.
●Conditions And Weather
June weather at Neah Bay can be notoriously unpredictable. Anglers should expect anything from flat calm seas to fog, rain, and possible stiff winds. Mornings are often the calmest, as wind typically builds in the afternoon. Having the flexibility to fish on shorter notice, when the forecast cooperates, can make or break a trip. Fog can be a factor; the Strait and nearshore waters can sock in with heavy fog, making it invaluable for navigating, even with GPS and radar. Always plan for safety, as the Pacific can turn hostile quickly. Being on a guide’s boat, such as the SeaWalker, and knowing it was equipped with the best crew and safety gear, makes the trip so much more enjoyable.
●Regulations And Access
Neah Bay is subject to both Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) regulations and tribal considerations. Seasons for halibut and salmon can change annually, even for bottomfish. So anglers must review the most current rules and regulations before making the trip. Size limits, bag limits, and barbless hook requirements are strictly enforced. Access also requires awareness, as you are on a reservation. As a visitor, always respect the policies and rules of the tribe. And while launching and returning to the Big Salmon marina, there is a cleaning station to clean your catch daily. Or pay a couple bucks to have a couple locals do it for you.
Fishing Neah Bay in June is an adventure into one of the richest marine environments on the West Coast. With stunning scenery from the rugged cliffs of Cape Flattery, the westernmost point in the contiguous United States, to the pristine beaches and rainforest nearby. Wildlife is abundant, and so many bald eagles share the water with anglers.
The community itself is small and welcoming, with local lodging, camping, and the Makah Cultural and Research Center offers a window into the rich history of the Makah people and the many years of fishing. It's a place where the Pacific reveals both its bounty and its raw power. A destination where every trip feels like an expedition, and every fish tells a story. For those who are looking to make the trek, expect long days on the water, a cooler of catches, and the memories you reeled in at Washington's Saltwater Frontier.
●Tips For Success
1. Book lodging early; June is popular, and options are limited
2. Hire a charter for your first trip. Water can be intimidating, and a good captain like Fred Walker with SeaWalker Charters would be my choice.
3. Pack for all weather. Layered clothing, rain gear, deck boots, waterproof bag or backpack.
4. Stay Flexible - weather and seas dictate much of the fishing. Having a couple of backup days built into the trip always helps.
5. Pack snacks, drinks, meds, and motion sickness medication. Not all charters cover a lunch, but most will have water on board.
6. Know the rules and regulations, as they can change yearly, and enforcement can be strict
7. Have fun, and respect the boat and the operation going on around you.
8. And most of all, "Reel In The Memories"!
