Pink Salmon Targeting in the US: Best Techniques

Pink salmon, also known as Oncorhynchus Gorbusha or humpy salmon, are returning in the millions to the Puget Sound and Hood Canal this month. These 3- to 5-pound fish are aggressive and easy to catch, making them a popular target for anglers in the region. To catch more pink salmon, it’s important to choose the correct gear, such as pink-colored lures, jigs, and flies. Pitching and twitching a Rock Dancer Bucktail Jig or using a slip float with a Rock Dancer Bucktail Jig can be effective techniques. Using the right scent, such as krill or shrimp, can also attract pink salmon. It’s important to find schools of pink salmon near the surface and time your lures or bait to intercept them. Shore fishing, especially along public beaches and fishing piers in Puget Sound, can be very productive for catching pink salmon. This fishery is also accessible for small boats, kayaks, and float tubes. Now is the time to grab your fishing rod and head out to catch some pink salmon.

Key Takeaways:

• Pink salmon are returning in large numbers to the Puget Sound and Hood Canal, making it an opportune time for anglers to target them.
• Choosing the correct gear, such as pink-colored lures, jigs, and flies, can significantly increase your chances of catching pink salmon.
• Pitching and twitching a Rock Dancer Bucktail Jig or using a slip float with a Rock Dancer Bucktail Jig are effective techniques for catching pink salmon.
• Using scent, like krill or shrimp, can attract pink salmon and improve your catch rates.
• Shore fishing along public beaches and fishing piers in Puget Sound is a productive method for catching pink salmon.

Choosing the Correct Gear to Catch Pink Salmon

Pink salmon are known for their preference for plankton, krill, aquatic insects, and crustaceans as their primary food sources. To effectively target and entice pink salmon, it’s crucial to use gear that mimics their natural prey. A selection of pink-colored lures, jigs, and flies will be highly effective in triggering their aggressive feeding behavior.

One reliable option is the Rock Dancer Bucktail Jig, available in 1/4 oz. or 1/8 oz. sizes. By pitching and twitching this jig, you can effectively attract and hook pink salmon. Another technique involves rigging a Rock Dancer Bucktail Jig in Pink/Cerise under a slip float and casting it out, utilizing wave action to entice the fish. This approach is particularly suitable for younger or less experienced anglers.

When fly fishing for pink salmon, consider using the Smile Blade Fly in a pink pattern, which can be slow-stripped with a slow sinking line. Adding contrasting colors or incorporating a bright pink or cerise blade can further enhance the allure of the fly. By utilizing gear in pink shades and imitating their natural prey, your chances of successfully catching pink salmon will significantly increase.

Choosing the right gear is crucial when targeting pink salmon. Using pink-colored lures, jigs, and flies that mimic their natural prey will make a significant difference in your catch rates. Don’t underestimate the power of color when it comes to attracting these aggressive fish. Opt for gear that will capture their attention and trigger their feeding instinct.

Effective Trolling Techniques for Targeting Pink Salmon

Trolling is a highly effective method for targeting pink salmon. By using the right lures and techniques, you can increase your chances of a successful catch. One popular setup for trolling pink salmon is to use a Double D Dodger followed by a Mack’s Lure Cha Cha Sockeye Squidder. These lures are designed with a Smile Blade and a pink squid skirt, making them irresistible to pink salmon.

If you prefer a smaller-sized rig, you can try the Cha Cha 1.5 Kokanee rig with either the pink Koke-A-Nut or the pink Double Whammy Ringmaster. These options are perfect for targeting pink salmon in different fishing conditions.

For early morning hours, when UV light can be beneficial, the Pee Wee Wiggle Hoochie with its UV bill can be a great choice. This lure is known to attract pink salmon due to its vibrant colors and enticing movement.

When trolling for pink salmon, it’s important to use a long setback and troll in a zig-zag pattern. This keeps your gear in front of the approaching school of pink salmon, increasing your chances of a successful hookup. Using pink-colored dodgers, lures, and attractants will also make your setup more appealing to pink salmon.

Trolling techniques for targeting pink salmon:

1. Use a Double D Dodger followed by a Mack’s Lure Cha Cha Sockeye Squidder
2. Try the smaller-sized Cha Cha 1.5 Kokanee rig with the pink Koke-A-Nut or pink Double Whammy Ringmaster
3. Consider the Pee Wee Wiggle Hoochie, especially in the early morning hours
4. Use a long setback and troll in a zig-zag pattern
5. Opt for pink-colored dodgers, lures, and attractants to increase your chances of success

By employing these trolling techniques and using the right gear, you’ll be well-equipped to target pink salmon and increase your chances of a successful fishing trip.

• Sight fishing: Keep an eye out for pink salmon jumping and cruising near the surface.
• Trolling: Use a long setback and troll in a zig-zag pattern to keep your gear in front of the approaching school of pink salmon.
• Casting and retrieving: Cast lures past the school and retrieve them into the fish to avoid startling them.

By utilizing these techniques, you can increase your chances of finding and successfully catching pink salmon.

Can You Catch Pink Salmon from the Shore?

Pink salmon can be successfully caught from the shore, making it a convenient and accessible option for anglers. Public beaches along the Puget Sound and fishing piers in the area are prime spots to catch pink salmon. Shore fishing can often be more productive than fishing from a boat, as pink salmon tend to cruise along the shoreline on their migration back to their natal rivers.

Fishing from piers can be competitive, so it’s best to arrive early and be prepared to fish alongside other anglers. Pink salmon have soft mouths, so using a crab ring as a makeshift landing net can help haul the fish up and over the railing of the pier.

In addition to shore fishing, small boats, kayaks, and float tubes can also be used to target pink salmon in protected waters like Hoodsport, Dash Point State Park, and Thea’s Waterway in Tacoma. Whether fishing from the shore or in a small watercraft, pink salmon can provide an exciting and productive fishing experience.

How to Identify Pink Salmon

Pink salmon, also known as Oncorhynchus gorbuscha, are the smallest and most numerous of the five Pacific salmon species. They are commonly found in the Pacific and Arctic Oceans, the Sea of Japan, and the Bering and Okhotsk Seas. These fish typically have a silver color, although some individuals may appear dull green.

Pink salmon can grow up to 30 inches in length and have an average weight of 3-5 pounds. One distinguishing characteristic of pink salmon is the presence of large black spots on their adipose fins and tails. These spots are unique to pink salmon and can help with their identification.

During the breeding season, male pink salmon develop pale red or pink coloration with olive-green or brown spots. They also develop a humpback and a kype, which is a hooked snout. These physical features are important indicators that can help differentiate pink salmon from other salmon species.

By being able to identify the physical features of pink salmon, anglers can confidently target these fish and have a successful fishing experience. Knowing the unique characteristics of pink salmon is essential for both conservation efforts and accurate species identification.

Where to Catch Pink Salmon

Pink salmon, also known as Oncorhynchus Gorbusha, can be found in a variety of habitats, providing ample opportunities for anglers to target them. These fish are abundant in the West region of the United States and can be found in a range of locations throughout their range. Here are some of the best fishing locations for pink salmon:

Backwaters and Bays

Pink salmon often seek refuge in backwaters and bays, especially during their migration. These areas offer calm and protected waters, making them ideal habitats for pink salmon.

Estuaries and Channel Entrances

Estuaries and channel entrances are prime fishing locations for pink salmon. These areas provide access to both saltwater and freshwater, making them important stopovers for migratory fish.

Current Edges and Drop-Offs

Current edges and drop-offs can concentrate pink salmon, as these fish often seek areas with varying water depths. Look for spots where the current meets deeper waters, as pink salmon are known to congregate in these areas.

Dams and Falls

When migrating upstream to their natal rivers, pink salmon often encounter dams and falls. These structures create natural barriers and bottlenecks, making them prime locations for anglers to target these fish.

Eddies and Man-Made Structures

Eddies and man-made structures, such as piers and jetties, can provide excellent fishing opportunities for pink salmon. These structures create pockets of calm water and can attract schools of fish seeking shelter.

Outside of Bends

Pink salmon are often found outside of bends in rivers and streams. The force of the current creates eddies and slack water areas where pink salmon can rest and feed.

Remember to check local regulations and licensing requirements before heading out to these fishing locations. And always practice catch-and-release for sustainable fishing. Happy angling!

How to Catch Pink Salmon

Pink salmon are a great target for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, there are techniques that can help you reel in these impressive fish. Here are some of the best methods and pink salmon fishing techniques to improve your chances of success:

1. Medium Action Rods and Reels

When fishing for pink salmon, it’s recommended to use medium action rods paired with a reel that can hold at least 150 yards of line. This setup will provide the right combination of flexibility and strength to handle these feisty fish.

2. Brightly Colored Jigs

Pink salmon are attracted to bright colors, so using brightly colored jigs is a popular and effective method. Opt for jigs in shades of pink or other vibrant colors to catch their attention. Some anglers even add fish oil to their jigs to enhance the scent and attract more pink salmon.

3. Drift Fishing

Drift fishing is a technique where you allow your bait or lure to drift naturally with the current. This method can be particularly effective when targeting pink salmon, as they are often found in areas with strong currents. Use a slip float or split shot to adjust the depth of your bait and ensure it stays in the strike zone.

4. Fly Fishing

Fly fishing for pink salmon can be a thrilling experience. Use a 9’0″ to 10’0″ fly rod in the 7-8 weight range and choose fly patterns that imitate the natural prey of pink salmon, such as Pink Clouser Minnows or Pink Comet flies. Make sure to match your fly line and leader to your chosen fishing location and conditions.

5. Jigging

Jigging involves using a jigging spoon or jigging lure and aggressively moving it up and down to attract the attention of pink salmon. The key to successful jigging is to vary your retrieve speed and depth until you find what works best for the specific conditions and location you are fishing.

6. Spin Casting

Spin casting is a versatile and widely used method for catching pink salmon. Spinning rods and reels allow for easy casting and retrieving of lures or baits. Utilize brightly colored lures, such as spinners and spoons, to entice pink salmon to bite.

7. Still Fishing

Still fishing involves casting your bait or lure out and letting it sit without any movement. This technique is effective when pink salmon are in a feeding frenzy, as they will readily strike at nearby prey. Use a sliding sinker or bobber rig to present your bait or lure at the desired depth and keep an eye on your line for any signs of a bite.

8. Trolling

Trolling is a popular technique for targeting pink salmon, especially when fishing from a boat. Use downriggers or planer boards to keep your lures or baits at the desired depth and vary your trolling speed to find what entices pink salmon to strike. Trolling with brightly colored dodgers, lures, and attractants can be particularly effective.

Remember, each fishing technique requires specific tackle and equipment. Always choose the right presentation to increase your chances of success when targeting pink salmon. With their aggressive nature and willingness to bite, pink salmon provide an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.

Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to Catch Pink Salmon

When targeting pink salmon, anglers often find success using brightly colored jigs as their primary lure. These lures have proven to be highly effective in enticing pink salmon to bite. To enhance the allure even further, consider adding herring or squid oil to the jig. The enticing scent of these oils can greatly increase your chances of attracting pink salmon.

If you want to improve your bait presentation and catch rates, utilizing salmon rigs can be a game-changer. These rigs are specifically designed to optimize the way your bait is presented to pink salmon, increasing the likelihood of a successful catch.

While jigs and rigs are popular choices, there are other lures that can also be effective in catching pink salmon. Flies, plugs, spinnerbaits, and spoons are all viable options. The key is to experiment with different lures and bait presentations to determine what works best in your particular fishing location.

To maximize your chances of success when targeting pink salmon, it’s advisable to have a variety of tackle options at your disposal. This allows you to adjust your approach and adapt to changing conditions on the water. By being prepared with a diverse range of lures, bait, and tackle, you can increase your chances of a successful and rewarding fishing experience.

“Using brightly colored jigs and adding enticing scents can make a big difference when targeting pink salmon. Experiment with different lures and bait presentations to find what works best for you.”

Fly Fishing for Pink Salmon

Fly fishing is an exciting and effective method for targeting pink salmon. To have a successful fly fishing experience for pink salmon, here is what you need:

• A 9’0″ to 10’0″ fly rod in the 7-8 weight range for most tidal and non-tidal fishing scenarios.
• A good quality disc drag fly reel that is saltwater safe.
• Floating lines, intermediate clear lines, and sink tips are all suitable for fly fishing for pink salmon.
• Tapered leaders and high-quality fluorocarbon leader material are recommended.

When it comes to fly patterns, popular choices for pink salmon include pink and white Clouser Minnows, Pink Comet, Pink Handle Bar, Pink Terror, and Pink Beach Comber.

Remember, the key is to imitate the natural prey of pink salmon, so using flies in shades of pink is highly effective.

To enhance your fly fishing experience for pink salmon, make sure you are equipped with breathable waders, comfortable wading boots, and other fly fishing accessories.

Fly fishing offers a unique and rewarding way to target pink salmon. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting, casting a fly and experiencing the thrill of a pink salmon taking the bait is an adventure you won’t want to miss.

Conclusion

Pink salmon targeting in the US offers a fantastic fishing opportunity for anglers. These aggressive and easy-to-catch fish can be found in abundance in the Puget Sound and other locations in the West region. By choosing the correct gear, utilizing scent, finding schools, and fishing from shore or in small watercraft, anglers can greatly enhance their chances of catching pink salmon.

Drift fishing, fly fishing, jigging, spin casting, still fishing, and trolling are all effective techniques for targeting pink salmon. With their willingness to bite and their abundance, pink salmon provide an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.