There are stories about the epic fish that the Puyallup River, which flows through the middle of western Washington, caught and the salmon that ran through it in the past. But the question that every eager fisherman wants to know is: Is it legal to fish for salmon in the Puyallup River? The answer changes with the seasons, government rules, and the delicate dance of salmon populations. Hold on tight, because we’re about to get into a very complicated question about the different ways you can fish on the Puyallup.
As an avid angler, I’m fascinated by the Puyallup River’s legendary salmon runs. However, navigating the intricate fishing regulations can be confusing for newcomers. I’ll talk about the main things that determine when this river system’s salmon seasons are open in this article.
A River of Complex Jurisdictions
The Puyallup River flows from Mount Rainier through varied ownerships and jurisdictions including tribal private, state, and federal lands. This legal patchwork directly impacts fishing rules and seasons. Portions of the river fall under
- Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regulations
- Puyallup Tribal rules and permits
- Federal Endangered Species Act protections
- Private property restrictions
Carefully checking the specific stretch of river you plan to fish is crucial to avoid violations. Seasons, permits, and techniques vary considerably between jurisdictions.
Salmon Species and Run Timing
Five Pacific salmon species migrate up the Puyallup River on spawning journeys
- Chinook – Spring and fall runs
- Coho – Fall run
- Pink – Odd years, summer and fall
- Chum – Fall run
- Sockeye – Rare/endangered
Identifying your target species and understanding their run timing is key. For example, the Puyallup’s legendary fall Chinook salmon fishing peaks from mid-August into September. However, farther upriver, the season may not open until later.
Balancing Recreation and Conservation
Salmon fishing regulations aim to balance recreational opportunity with protecting vulnerable wild populations. Key conservation measures include:
- Limited seasons – Only open during harvestable hatchery fish migrations
- Catch limits – Prevent overharvest of wild salmon
- Gear restrictions – Reduce hooking mortality of “non-target” species
- ** Sanctuaries** – Closed areas during spawning seasons
Careful adherence to these rules helps maintain ethical and sustainable fishing on the Puyallup River system
Annual Regulation Changes
Puyallup River salmon seasons see frequent modifications in response to annual run forecasts. It’s essential to check the current regulations each year for updates. Critical to review:
- Open seasons for target species
- Permit requirements
- Gear and bait restrictions
- Minimum size limits
- Daily catch limits
- Mandatory release rules
- Area closures/sanctuaries
WDFW and tribal creel reports provide helpful data on run timing and abundance. Time your trip to match the peak of your desired salmon run.
Key Salmon Fishing Areas
Where you fish controls what rules apply. Here are some top spots and their jurisdictions:
- Tacoma – Lower river and Commencement Bay falls under WDFW rules.
- Puyallup Reservation – Mid-river around the city of Puyallup follows tribal regulations.
- Carbon River – WDFW regulated tributary holding fall Chinook.
- Voight Creek – Hatchery outlet with September-November salmon seasons.
Consult regulations for each specific area being considered to ensure compliance.
Salmon Fishing Methods and Gear
Legal techniques and tackle vary depending on species, run timing, and location. Some useful salmon setups:
- Drift fishing – Use bobbers, jigs, or bait like sand shrimp and roe when flows allow.
- Backtrolling – Slowly motor upstream while trolling plugs or bait. Effective for coho.
- Casting spoons – Spinners and crankbaits mimic juvenile salmon and provoke strikes.
- Plunking – Anchor and cast out weighted bait or lures near shore. Lets scent dissipate.
Always verify local tackle limitations before fishing. Some runs prohibit bait or barbless hooks to protect spawning salmon.
Ethical Angling and Stewardship
Beyond following Puyallup River salmon regulations, responsible anglers:
- Carefully release prohibited wild fish unharmed
- Minimize fight time and use barbless hooks
- Remove gear and line from the water
- Respect spawning ground closures
- Limit harvests to leave fish for future generations
- Support habitat protections and restoration
We all share the rewards and responsibilities of sustainably enjoying this incredible river system.
While complex, the Puyallup River’s salmon fishing regulations exist to preserve wild stocks while allowing carefully managed recreation opportunity. By matching gear, methods, and locations to current openings, and practicing ethical angling, visitors can responsibly enjoy chasing its legendary salmon runs. Remember to check tribal, state, and federal rules for each area and species. With preparation and care, the Puyallup’s resilient salmon populations will continue thrilling anglers for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What salmon species can you fish for in the Puyallup River?
The main salmon targeted by anglers in the Puyallup River system are fall runs of Chinook, coho, chum, and pink salmon. Rare endangered sockeye salmon cannot be kept.
When is the Puyallup River open for salmon fishing?
Seasons vary by species, location, and year. Typical openings are August-September for Chinook, September-November for coho. Odd years see summer-fall pink salmon seasons.
What fishing gear can be used to catch Puyallup River salmon?
Legal tackle differs between areas. Typical salmon gear includes bait, bobbers, spoons, spinners, plugs, jigs, and divers. Some spots prohibit bait or require barbless hooks during peak spawning periods.
Does the Puyallup River require salmon fishing permits?
The lower Puyallup falls under WDFW rules and only needs a fishing license. But tribal permits are required in certain areas like the Puyallup Reservation. Always check regulations.
Where are good shore fishing spots on the Puyallup River?
The lower river near Tacoma offers numerous shore access points. Farther up, the areas around Puyallup, Sumner, and Orting also provide good bank fishing when salmon are running.
Seasons of Salmon: A Dance of Plenty and Preservation:
Each species of Puyallup salmon has a specific fishing season that is meant to protect populations that are in danger while also giving fishermen exciting chances to catch big fish. The river is home to Chinook, Coho, Chum, and Pink salmon at different times of the year. Each has its own rewards and challenges.
Chinook Kings: Unquestionably the stars of the show, Chinook salmon are renowned for their size and fighting prowess. Their spring and fall seasons are restricted to particular river regions. For example, you can start fishing for Chinook in April on the lower Puyallup near Tacoma, but not until August on the upper river.
Coho’s Vibrant Chase: Though smaller than Chinook, Coho salmon bring exhilarating close-in fights during their autumnal arrival. In certain places, their season coincides with Chinook, giving fishermen twice the excitement.
Plenty of Pleasures: The seasons for chum and pink salmon are longer and strikes happen more often than for Chinook salmon, even though they are smaller. Chum runs mostly in the fall, and every other year, pink salmon flood the river, making fishing very exciting.
A River Entwined with Rules
Let’s set the scene first. The Puyallup River traverses a variety of legal jurisdictions, including privately owned sections, state-managed waterways, and tribal grounds. The patchwork of jurisdictions implies that fishing laws differ from place to place. Consequently, asking “Is the Puyallup open” alone gives the wrong impression.