Pacific Northwest fishing report for the week of October 8, 2026. Fall is salmon season in the Northwest. The coho are in the sound and the rivers, the fall Chinook are in the Columbia, and the steelhead are beginning to arrive. A new moon this weekend means strong tides.
What’s Hitting
Coho salmon are the main target in Puget Sound and in the rivers such as the Skagit, Skykomish and Snohomish. Fall Chinook are in the Columbia and in the coastal rivers, and steelhead are entering rivers in the Olympic Peninsula and the Columbia system. Pink salmon are fading, and bottomfish are available along the coast.
Where to Find Them
Puget Sound near Everett, Edmonds and Seattle holds coho. The Columbia River near Ilwaco and Astoria holds Chinook. The coastal rivers on the Olympic Peninsula hold steelhead and coho. Westport is the hub for coastal bottomfish.
Tides & Conditions
The new moon this weekend means strong tides. Rain is the key to the river runs, as rising water triggers the fish to move upstream. Check the river flows and the forecast, and be aware of changing weather.
Tackle & Tactics
Trolling with plugs and spinners works for salmon. Roe and plugs are standard for the rivers. Drift fishing with yarn and roe is productive for steelhead. Use a stout rod and a good net, and be aware that rules vary by river.
In Puget Sound, check the marine area openings before you go, since coho and Chinook rules are managed by area and can change with little notice. The WDFW emergency rule page is the best source for current openings.
Local Intel This Week
Public access includes the Ilwaco boat basin, Westport Marina and the Port of Everett ramp. Fish are concentrating in the river mouths and the sound. Check current Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations, as salmon and steelhead rules change frequently, and carry a valid license and catch card.
This Week’s Tip
Watch the river levels. A rise after rain brings fresh fish, and the first day after the peak is often the best.
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