December - What's Hapenning?

December is a month that offers a fair amount of opportunities, though the weather tends to be be a little on the inclement side there is lots to do for those that are willing to brave the elements. Here's a little rundown on whats available:

1. Without a doubt the most popular December fishery here in the Puget Sound region is winter steelheading. Traditionally winter steelheading kicks off December 1, though we have seen a few winter fish in the catches over the past few weeks. Many popular steelhead streams have been open already, a few will open on December 1, still others will have regulation changes that will open them from fly fishing only regulations or selective fishing regulations to the less restrictive general steelheading regulations. It is imperative that you read your regulation pamphlet to make sure that you know what is going on. We will detail a little more in the near future.
2. Winter blackmouth fishing continues to be very popular. Chasing these immature Chinook is a past time of many die hard fishermen. This year we have seen some very good fishing, as the November fisheries have shown and we should continue to see good fishing into next year. Do make sure to check your regulations as there are a few changes that take effect on December 1.
3. Squidding is a popular fishery during this month, with this month being perhaps the most productive of the year. Popular spots include Edmonds, Seattle waterfront, Seacrest, Des Moines, Bremerton and Illahee.
4. Smelt jigging is a great winter time activity that is very popular with many folks. Requiring very little in the way of tackle and not very technical. Popular spots include Coronet Bay, Oak Harbor, LaConner and the Evertett waterfront.
5. Winter crabbing, though we do not have many open areas can be quite productive during December. Marine Areas 9 & 10 remain open through January 2nd and there is nothing better than fresh crab during this holiday period.
6 Razor clam digging on the coastal beaches. We have a scheduled dig coming up on the 2nd through the 5th of the month and another one on December 31st though January 2nd. Nothing better than nice fat winter razor clams that are in their prime!
7. Lake Washington & Lake Sammamish trout fishing. Both of these metropolitan waters put out their best trout fishing opportunities during the winter months. You might be surprised with the quality of this fishery.

These are a few of the high lights coming up during December, but are by no means everything that is available.