Thursday, March 29, 2012
Cowlitz River Reports
The past couple of days have been quite good on the Cowlitz for steelhead. One of the customers had three limits of steelhead both yesterday and today by 9:00 a.m.. He was boat fishing below the trout hatchery launch down to the clay banks. Free drifting E-Z Eggs / Yarn and Puff Ball / Yarn combinations with a little Mike's Shrimp Oil was the key to their success. We have alos had good reports from the guys fishing the bank in the same area. There have been a few Chinook caught in the Barrier Dam section by the bank fishermen drifting eggs. It's still early for good numbers of salmon and will only get better.
Tuesday, March 27, 2012
New Licenses Time - Turn in Punchcards
With April 1st looming just around the corner don't forget to renew your WDFW licences as well as return your various catch record cards (salmon - steelhead - sturgeon - halibut) to the address on your documents. The WDFW is updating user profiles this year, make sure that you get your new licences before you need them. If you do have a profile problem it requires a call to the WDFW to resolve it. If this occurs after working hours at the WDFW you will not be able to get your new licences. We have already seen a number of problems come up where customers were unable to procure their licences due to these issues. Don't ruin a fishing trip - get your licences early!
Lake Chelan Reports - Anton Jones - Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service
What’s hot is trolling in the early morning above the Yacht Club on Lake Chelan for nice numbers of lakers. Also hot is trolling the upper trench for nice numbers of Mackinaw. I have been hearing mixed results from fishing on Roses Lake.
On Chelan, fish above the Yacht Club from the 240 foot contour out to 340 foot contour for best success early in the morning. When the bite cools off there, move down to the upper end of the trench and work water from 200 to 240 feet deep. In both locations fish speeds of 1.2 to 1.5 mph as close to the bottom as you can. Silver Horde’s Ace Hi Flies rigged with a smile blade and baited with a triangle of Northern Pikeminnow has been the “go to” presentation. Mack’s Lures Cha Cha Squidders similarly baited were also effective.
On Roses Lake, the reports have been inconsistent. The successful anglers seem to be the ones trolling flies with action disks in front.
Your fishing tip of the week is to look at small things to prevent line twist when deepwater trolling on Lake Chelan. First, consider upgrading your swivels to quality ball bearing swivels. Then check your rig for flaws. One thing that we found is that when you are trolling Silver Horde’s Ace Hi’s with a Mack’s Smile Blade up front, keep checking your tinsel to make sure it hasn’t plugged the hole in the Ace Hi or the beads.
The kid’s tip of the week is to be silly to keep their interest and enjoyment up. When I’m by myself, I spend a lot of time in quiet contemplation when I’m fishing. When I’m with kids, I am always doing silly things to make it fun for them. I had a family from Vancouver, BC, “eh!” last week that were a great demo for this. The Dad kept them engaged the whole time being excited, silly and upbeat. Middle aged guys are particularly resistant to this, but if you want your kids to enjoy fishing, consider it…
Your safety tip of the week is a repeat. Bring your waders to retrieve your boats at Mill and Manson Bays. With the lake level approaching 1083, the run out area is fairly shallow and flat in both areas. With most boats it’s a good idea to ease it onto the trailer now and extend your cable out to wind it on the trailer. Powering them on now could cost you a prop. Manson Bay is the better choice now. You can still launch and retrieve at the uplake lane on Mill Bay with smaller boats but keep your motor trimmed up and be cautious of those logs just beyond the end of the dock in the middle lanes.
Anton Jones of Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service
1-866-360-1523 or http://www.darrellanddads.com/
Check out the Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service page on Facebook for daily updates and quick tips
Pictured: 3-24-12: Bridget Siegel and Daniel Abel of Bonney Lake, WA with Ken Burrington and Kody Birch (8) of Roy with their days catch of Lake Chelan Mackinaw.
Also Pictured: 3/26-12: John Hicks of Gig Harbor and Tom Buinger of Port Orchard with their days catch of Chelan Lakers.
On Chelan, fish above the Yacht Club from the 240 foot contour out to 340 foot contour for best success early in the morning. When the bite cools off there, move down to the upper end of the trench and work water from 200 to 240 feet deep. In both locations fish speeds of 1.2 to 1.5 mph as close to the bottom as you can. Silver Horde’s Ace Hi Flies rigged with a smile blade and baited with a triangle of Northern Pikeminnow has been the “go to” presentation. Mack’s Lures Cha Cha Squidders similarly baited were also effective.
On Roses Lake, the reports have been inconsistent. The successful anglers seem to be the ones trolling flies with action disks in front.
Your fishing tip of the week is to look at small things to prevent line twist when deepwater trolling on Lake Chelan. First, consider upgrading your swivels to quality ball bearing swivels. Then check your rig for flaws. One thing that we found is that when you are trolling Silver Horde’s Ace Hi’s with a Mack’s Smile Blade up front, keep checking your tinsel to make sure it hasn’t plugged the hole in the Ace Hi or the beads.
The kid’s tip of the week is to be silly to keep their interest and enjoyment up. When I’m by myself, I spend a lot of time in quiet contemplation when I’m fishing. When I’m with kids, I am always doing silly things to make it fun for them. I had a family from Vancouver, BC, “eh!” last week that were a great demo for this. The Dad kept them engaged the whole time being excited, silly and upbeat. Middle aged guys are particularly resistant to this, but if you want your kids to enjoy fishing, consider it…
Your safety tip of the week is a repeat. Bring your waders to retrieve your boats at Mill and Manson Bays. With the lake level approaching 1083, the run out area is fairly shallow and flat in both areas. With most boats it’s a good idea to ease it onto the trailer now and extend your cable out to wind it on the trailer. Powering them on now could cost you a prop. Manson Bay is the better choice now. You can still launch and retrieve at the uplake lane on Mill Bay with smaller boats but keep your motor trimmed up and be cautious of those logs just beyond the end of the dock in the middle lanes.
Anton Jones of Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service
1-866-360-1523 or http://www.darrellanddads.com/
Check out the Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service page on Facebook for daily updates and quick tips
Pictured: 3-24-12: Bridget Siegel and Daniel Abel of Bonney Lake, WA with Ken Burrington and Kody Birch (8) of Roy with their days catch of Lake Chelan Mackinaw.
Also Pictured: 3/26-12: John Hicks of Gig Harbor and Tom Buinger of Port Orchard with their days catch of Chelan Lakers.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
Halibut Seasons Set for 2012
2012 halibut seasons provide extra fishing days on Puget Sound
OLYMPIA – Sportfishing seasons for halibut will be four days longer in Puget Sound, and more fish will be available for harvest early in the season off the state’s southern coast under catch quotas for 2012 adopted by the International Pacific Halibut Commission.
Although the state’s recreational catch quota is down slightly from last year, Puget Sound anglers will get an extra day to catch the big flatfish during the Memorial Day weekend and three additional days during the course of the season.
That is a welcome change after three successive years of cutbacks in fishing time designed to prevent that fishery from exceeding its catch quota, said Heather Reed, coastal policy coordinator for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
“We’ve worked very hard to stabilize the Puget Sound fishery in recent years, and we finally achieved that goal,” Reed said. “Last year’s catch actually fell short of the quota by more than 11,600 pounds, which makes us confident we can restore some of that lost fishing time.”
This year’s catch quota for Puget Sound is 57,393 pounds, with an additional 156,717 pounds distributed among three coastal fisheries.
Another change this year is that 80 percent of the quota for recreational halibut fishery in Marine Area 1 off the Columbia River will be allocated to the early season that begins May 3. In past years only 70 percent was dedicated to the early season, with 30 percent reserved for the late season in August.
“This change will make more of the quota available during the early season, when that area attracts the highest number of anglers,” Reed said.
In all marine areas open to fishing, there is a one-fish daily catch limit and no minimum size restriction. Anglers may possess a maximum of two fish in any form, and must record their catch on a WDFW catch record card.
2012 Puget Sound halibut seasons
Marine Area 5: From May 24-28, the fishery will be open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday for Memorial Day weekend. From May 31 through June 23, the fishery will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. WDFW has also set Thursday, May 23 as the opening day of the 2013 season.
Marine Areas 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10: From May 3-19, the fishery will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. From May 24-28, the fishery will be open each day (Thursday through Monday) for Memorial Day weekend. From May 31-June 2, the fishery will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. WDFW has also set Thursday, May 2 as the opening day of the 2013 season.
Marine Areas 11, 12, 13: These areas will remain closed to halibut fishing this year to protect threatened and endangered rockfish species.
2012 Pacific Coast halibut seasons
Marine Area 1 (Columbia River): Opens May 3, three days per week (Thursday-Saturday) until 80 percent of the quota is achieved, or until July 14, whichever is earlier. The fishery will reopen Aug. 3 and continue three days per week (Friday-Sunday), until the remaining quota is taken, or until Sept. 30, whichever occurs first. The early quota is 9,516 pounds; the late quota is 2,379 pounds.
Marine Area 2 (Westport): Opens May 6, two days per week (Sunday and Tuesday) for three consecutive weeks. The area-wide fishery will be closed May 27 and 29. If sufficient quota remains, the fishery will open the following Sunday and/or Tuesday and continue until the quota is reached, or until Sept. 30, whichever occurs first. The northern nearshore area will open May 6 and continue seven days per week until the nearshore quota is reached, or until Sept. 30, whichever occurs first. The quota for the area-wide fishery is 40,739 pounds; the quota for the northern nearshore fishery is 2,000 pounds.
Marine Areas 3 and 4 (La Push and Neah Bay): Opens May 10, two days per week (Thursdays and Saturdays) through May 19. If enough harvestable fish remain to be catch the fishery will re-open May 31 and/or June 2 and possibly on additional days (Thursdays and Saturdays) until the quota is reached or Sept. 28, whichever occurs first. The combined quota for both areas is 108,030 pounds.
In Marine Areas 1-4, the seasons will continue until the subarea quotas are reached.
OLYMPIA – Sportfishing seasons for halibut will be four days longer in Puget Sound, and more fish will be available for harvest early in the season off the state’s southern coast under catch quotas for 2012 adopted by the International Pacific Halibut Commission.
Although the state’s recreational catch quota is down slightly from last year, Puget Sound anglers will get an extra day to catch the big flatfish during the Memorial Day weekend and three additional days during the course of the season.
That is a welcome change after three successive years of cutbacks in fishing time designed to prevent that fishery from exceeding its catch quota, said Heather Reed, coastal policy coordinator for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
“We’ve worked very hard to stabilize the Puget Sound fishery in recent years, and we finally achieved that goal,” Reed said. “Last year’s catch actually fell short of the quota by more than 11,600 pounds, which makes us confident we can restore some of that lost fishing time.”
This year’s catch quota for Puget Sound is 57,393 pounds, with an additional 156,717 pounds distributed among three coastal fisheries.
Another change this year is that 80 percent of the quota for recreational halibut fishery in Marine Area 1 off the Columbia River will be allocated to the early season that begins May 3. In past years only 70 percent was dedicated to the early season, with 30 percent reserved for the late season in August.
“This change will make more of the quota available during the early season, when that area attracts the highest number of anglers,” Reed said.
In all marine areas open to fishing, there is a one-fish daily catch limit and no minimum size restriction. Anglers may possess a maximum of two fish in any form, and must record their catch on a WDFW catch record card.
2012 Puget Sound halibut seasons
Marine Area 5: From May 24-28, the fishery will be open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday for Memorial Day weekend. From May 31 through June 23, the fishery will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. WDFW has also set Thursday, May 23 as the opening day of the 2013 season.
Marine Areas 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10: From May 3-19, the fishery will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. From May 24-28, the fishery will be open each day (Thursday through Monday) for Memorial Day weekend. From May 31-June 2, the fishery will be open Thursday, Friday and Saturday. WDFW has also set Thursday, May 2 as the opening day of the 2013 season.
Marine Areas 11, 12, 13: These areas will remain closed to halibut fishing this year to protect threatened and endangered rockfish species.
2012 Pacific Coast halibut seasons
Marine Area 1 (Columbia River): Opens May 3, three days per week (Thursday-Saturday) until 80 percent of the quota is achieved, or until July 14, whichever is earlier. The fishery will reopen Aug. 3 and continue three days per week (Friday-Sunday), until the remaining quota is taken, or until Sept. 30, whichever occurs first. The early quota is 9,516 pounds; the late quota is 2,379 pounds.
Marine Area 2 (Westport): Opens May 6, two days per week (Sunday and Tuesday) for three consecutive weeks. The area-wide fishery will be closed May 27 and 29. If sufficient quota remains, the fishery will open the following Sunday and/or Tuesday and continue until the quota is reached, or until Sept. 30, whichever occurs first. The northern nearshore area will open May 6 and continue seven days per week until the nearshore quota is reached, or until Sept. 30, whichever occurs first. The quota for the area-wide fishery is 40,739 pounds; the quota for the northern nearshore fishery is 2,000 pounds.
Marine Areas 3 and 4 (La Push and Neah Bay): Opens May 10, two days per week (Thursdays and Saturdays) through May 19. If enough harvestable fish remain to be catch the fishery will re-open May 31 and/or June 2 and possibly on additional days (Thursdays and Saturdays) until the quota is reached or Sept. 28, whichever occurs first. The combined quota for both areas is 108,030 pounds.
In Marine Areas 1-4, the seasons will continue until the subarea quotas are reached.
Kids Fishing Events
Here's the run down on the various "Kids Fishing Events" coming up in April and May!
April 18th, 2012
KIDS TROUT FISHING CLASS
Silver Hall
Thorton A. Sullivan Park
at Silver Lake, Everett
Everett Parks Registration
425-257-8300 ext. 2
Registration starts Feb. 7th, 2012
April 28 & 29, 2012
Evergreen Recreation &
Sportsmen Expo
Kids Trout Pond
at the Evergreen Fair Grounds
Monroe
May 5th, 2012
KIDS FISHING EVENT
Jennings Park, Marysville
8 am - 11am, Ages 5 - 12 years old
Food donations accepted for local Food Bank
May 12th, 2012
SILVER LAKE KIDS FISH-IN
Thorton A. Sullivan Park
at Silver Lake, Everett
Everett Parks Registration
425-257-8300 ext. 2
Registration starts Feb. 7th, 2012
May 19th, 2012
KIDS FISHING EVENT
Twin Lakes County Park
(North Gissberg Park)
Smokey Point, Arlington
8 am - 2 pm, Ages 5 - 14 years old
For Additional Information
These events are a "Great" way to introduce your kids to fishing. Many of the events have a limited number of kids that can participate, so make sure to sign them up early.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Razor Clam Dig OK'd for March 24 & 25
OLYMPIA – State fishery managers have approved a morning razor clam dig at several ocean beaches March 24-25 after marine toxin tests confirmed that the clams on those beaches are safe to eat.
Four beaches – Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks and Copalis – will be open for digging March 24, and all except Copalis also will be open for digging Sunday, March 25.
No digging will be allowed either day after noon at any of those beaches.
“We’re nearing the end of the season at Copalis, but we still have more clams available for harvest on other beaches,” said Dan Ayres, coastal shellfish manager for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “We have tentatively scheduled another dig in April and perhaps more to come.”
Morning low tides and beach openings for the upcoming dig are:
March 24, Saturday (8:25 a.m. +0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
March 25, Sunday (8:59 a.m., +0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
Ayres noted that the March 24 dig coincides with the Ocean Shores Razor Clam Festival, featuring craft booths and a chowder cook-off. Since Ocean Shores – along with Oyhut, Ocean City and Copalis – is part of Copalis Beach, it will not be open to digging March 25.
Aryes cautions diggers to observe the boundary between Mocrocks Beach and Copalis Beach, which are adjacent to one another north of Grays Harbor. Mocrocks Beach, which will be open to digging both days, lies north of the Copalis River and includes Iron Springs, Roosevelt Beach, Seabrook, Pacific Beach and Moclips.
Under state law, diggers can take 15 razor clams per day, and are required to keep the first 15 they dig. Each digger's clams must be kept in a separate container.
All diggers age 15 or older must have a valid 2011-2012 fishing license to harvest razor clams those days. However, starting April 1, diggers will need a new 2012-13 to participate in additional openings this season.
Licensing options range from a three-day razor clam license to an annual combination fishing license, which can be purchased on WDFW's website (https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/) and from license vendors around the state.
Shellfish managers have tentatively proposed a morning dig in early April, although final approval will depend on the results of future marine toxin tests. Proposed beach openings, along with morning low tides, for that dig are:
April 7, Saturday (7:36 a.m., -1.2 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch
April 8, Sunday (8:23 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch
April 9, Monday (9:11 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Kalaloch
Updated information on razor clam seasons is available on WDFW’s toll-free Shellfish Hotline at (866) 880-5431.
ADA ACCESS EMPLOYMENT REPORT A VIOLATION NEWS
Four beaches – Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks and Copalis – will be open for digging March 24, and all except Copalis also will be open for digging Sunday, March 25.
No digging will be allowed either day after noon at any of those beaches.
“We’re nearing the end of the season at Copalis, but we still have more clams available for harvest on other beaches,” said Dan Ayres, coastal shellfish manager for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “We have tentatively scheduled another dig in April and perhaps more to come.”
Morning low tides and beach openings for the upcoming dig are:
March 24, Saturday (8:25 a.m. +0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
March 25, Sunday (8:59 a.m., +0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
Ayres noted that the March 24 dig coincides with the Ocean Shores Razor Clam Festival, featuring craft booths and a chowder cook-off. Since Ocean Shores – along with Oyhut, Ocean City and Copalis – is part of Copalis Beach, it will not be open to digging March 25.
Aryes cautions diggers to observe the boundary between Mocrocks Beach and Copalis Beach, which are adjacent to one another north of Grays Harbor. Mocrocks Beach, which will be open to digging both days, lies north of the Copalis River and includes Iron Springs, Roosevelt Beach, Seabrook, Pacific Beach and Moclips.
Under state law, diggers can take 15 razor clams per day, and are required to keep the first 15 they dig. Each digger's clams must be kept in a separate container.
All diggers age 15 or older must have a valid 2011-2012 fishing license to harvest razor clams those days. However, starting April 1, diggers will need a new 2012-13 to participate in additional openings this season.
Licensing options range from a three-day razor clam license to an annual combination fishing license, which can be purchased on WDFW's website (https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov/) and from license vendors around the state.
Shellfish managers have tentatively proposed a morning dig in early April, although final approval will depend on the results of future marine toxin tests. Proposed beach openings, along with morning low tides, for that dig are:
April 7, Saturday (7:36 a.m., -1.2 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch
April 8, Sunday (8:23 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch
April 9, Monday (9:11 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Kalaloch
Updated information on razor clam seasons is available on WDFW’s toll-free Shellfish Hotline at (866) 880-5431.
ADA ACCESS EMPLOYMENT REPORT A VIOLATION NEWS
Everett Blackmouth Derby Results
Woody just came by with the results of the Everett Blackmouth Derby that was held this past Saturday. There were 82 boats that participated in the event with a total of 34 fish weighed in. Here's the run down on the top five fish.
1st - Brent Pierce 12.06 pounds
2nd - Jacob Emmons 10.56 pounds
3rd - Lance Husby 8.56 pounds
4th - Glenn Miller 8.08 pounds
5th - Jeff Ardet 7.54 pounds
The smallest fish weighed in at 3.57 pound. All fish were weighed dressed weight.
Everyone had an outstanding time at the event!
Thanks to Woody Woods and his crew for putting on this event.
1st - Brent Pierce 12.06 pounds
2nd - Jacob Emmons 10.56 pounds
3rd - Lance Husby 8.56 pounds
4th - Glenn Miller 8.08 pounds
5th - Jeff Ardet 7.54 pounds
The smallest fish weighed in at 3.57 pound. All fish were weighed dressed weight.
Everyone had an outstanding time at the event!
Thanks to Woody Woods and his crew for putting on this event.
Cowlitz River Steelhead Reports
We have been getting some fairly good steelhead reports coming from the Cowlitz River this past week and through the weekend. There have been some nice fish in the ten pound range though the mid teens beeing taken. The fish are nice and bright and in great shape. Most of the boat guys have been free drifting with either yarn / fish pill or yarn / EZ Egg combinations. Many of those we spoke with managed to land limits without too much effort. The Trout Hatchery area downstream has been most productive. The bank anglers have been working the area around the ramp fishing glow bobbers at night and also doing fairly well. We have heard of an odd spring Chinook being landed, but I think we are still a ways off before we see good numbers.
Methow Steelheading Report
With the Methow reopening for steelhead this past week we had a number of customers that elected to head over to the East side and see what the river had to offer. Everyone that we spoke with had reasonable fishing with number of a half dozen to a dozen fish landed per day. These are by no means dollar bright fish and are a little on the thin side and showing lots of color, but it at least gives one an opportunity to wet a line. Most were fishing floats and jig combinations with many fishing a smaller jig or bead on a dropper around 18 inches below their main offering. This fishery should produce well until the close at the end of the month.
Lake Chelan Reports - Anton Jones - Darrel & Dad's Family Guide Service
What’s hot is a resurgence of the deepwater trolling pattern above the Yacht Club on Lake Chelan for nice numbers of fish with a shot at a big one. Roses Lake has been clear of ice for most of the last reporting period and should produce nice numbers of stocker rainbows and perch.
On Chelan, fish above the Yacht Club from the 240 foot contour out to 340 foot contour for best success. Mack’s Lures Cha Cha Squidders in glow colors baited with a triangle of Northern Pikeminnow produced best. Silver Horde’s Ace Hi Flies similarly rigged were also productive. As always, troll close to the bottom. Speeds of 1.2 to 1.4 worked best with turns and variations in the speed working to trigger hesitant fish.
Roses Lake is finally ice free. Trolling flies with action disks in front or still fishing Firebait should work for these planter rainbows.
Your fishing tip of the week is to consider varying your attractors to trigger reluctant fish. Our standard presentation in front of squid style rigs is Mack’s Lures Smile Blades. The wide variation in size and color gives you a plethora of options. Additionally, our old standby, the action disk by wiggle fin will work too. Also, Crazy 8’s are another subtle attractor variation. That way you can avoid the line twist, drag and weight of Flashers and Dodgers.
The kid’s tip of the week is to take frequent activity breaks from concentrating on fishing when you are out with kids. While there are some exceptions, most kids’ attentions spans are limited. The younger they are generally the shorter the attention span. If you are out on a small boat getting them into shore to run around for a few minutes is a good idea. Snack breaks will also help. Additionally, engaging them in a silly game of their choosing will pay dividends in keeping the fun meter pegged.
Your safety tip of the week is to bring your waders to retrieve your boats at Mill and Manson Bays. With the lake level at about 1084, the run out area is fairly shallow and flat in both areas. With most boats it’s a good idea to ease it onto the trailer now and extend your cable out to wind it on the trailer. Powering them on now could cost you a prop. Manson Bay is the better choice now. You can still launch and retrieve at Mill Bay for smaller boats but keep your motor trimmed up and be cautious of those logs just beyond the end of the dock.
Anton Jones of Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service
http://www.darrellanddads.com/ or 866-360-1523
Remember to "like" us on our Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service Facebook page
3/16/12: Guide Jeff Witkowski and Brian Whitney of Manson with their mornings catch of Lake Chelan Mackinaw.
3/16/12: Jeff again with an 11 pound Mack.
On Chelan, fish above the Yacht Club from the 240 foot contour out to 340 foot contour for best success. Mack’s Lures Cha Cha Squidders in glow colors baited with a triangle of Northern Pikeminnow produced best. Silver Horde’s Ace Hi Flies similarly rigged were also productive. As always, troll close to the bottom. Speeds of 1.2 to 1.4 worked best with turns and variations in the speed working to trigger hesitant fish.
Roses Lake is finally ice free. Trolling flies with action disks in front or still fishing Firebait should work for these planter rainbows.
Your fishing tip of the week is to consider varying your attractors to trigger reluctant fish. Our standard presentation in front of squid style rigs is Mack’s Lures Smile Blades. The wide variation in size and color gives you a plethora of options. Additionally, our old standby, the action disk by wiggle fin will work too. Also, Crazy 8’s are another subtle attractor variation. That way you can avoid the line twist, drag and weight of Flashers and Dodgers.
The kid’s tip of the week is to take frequent activity breaks from concentrating on fishing when you are out with kids. While there are some exceptions, most kids’ attentions spans are limited. The younger they are generally the shorter the attention span. If you are out on a small boat getting them into shore to run around for a few minutes is a good idea. Snack breaks will also help. Additionally, engaging them in a silly game of their choosing will pay dividends in keeping the fun meter pegged.
Your safety tip of the week is to bring your waders to retrieve your boats at Mill and Manson Bays. With the lake level at about 1084, the run out area is fairly shallow and flat in both areas. With most boats it’s a good idea to ease it onto the trailer now and extend your cable out to wind it on the trailer. Powering them on now could cost you a prop. Manson Bay is the better choice now. You can still launch and retrieve at Mill Bay for smaller boats but keep your motor trimmed up and be cautious of those logs just beyond the end of the dock.
Anton Jones of Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service
http://www.darrellanddads.com/ or 866-360-1523
Remember to "like" us on our Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service Facebook page
3/16/12: Guide Jeff Witkowski and Brian Whitney of Manson with their mornings catch of Lake Chelan Mackinaw.
3/16/12: Jeff again with an 11 pound Mack.
Friday, March 16, 2012
Don't Forget To Renew Your Licenses
Don't forget to renew your fishing licenses, as you have just two weeks left on your existing 2011 - 2012 licenses. Every year we have customers that forget and have to make the state a donation for not having a current license. Don't Forget!
Thursday, March 15, 2012
Wenatchee, Icicle & Methow Rivers Re-Open For Steehead
Fishing for hatchery steelhead to reopen on the Wenatchee, Icicle, Methow rivers
OLYMPIA – Starting Friday (March 16), the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will reopen selective fisheries for hatchery-reared steelhead on the Wenatchee, Icicle, and Methow rivers on a short-term basis.
Anglers will be allowed to catch whitefish in the Wenatchee and Methow rivers so long as those rivers are open to steelhead fishing.
Steelhead fisheries in all three rivers are tentatively scheduled to run through March 31, but could end sooner if fishing impacts on wild steelhead reach annual federal limits, said Jeff Korth, regional WDFW fish manager.
“These limited openings are designed to support wild-steelhead recovery by reducing the number of hatchery fish on the spawning grounds,” Korth said. “Anglers can play an important role in that effort by removing hatchery fish not needed to meet spawning goals.”
Because the fisheries could close on short notice, Korth recommends that anglers check the department’s Fishing Hotline at (360-902-2500) or Fishing Rule website (http://wdfw.wa.gov/) for updates.
The Similkameen and Okanogan rivers will remain open for steelhead fishing, although sections of the Okanogan River around the mouth of Omak and Tonasket creeks will close to all fishing March 16 to protect wild steelhead staging for spawning.
The daily limit on all rivers open to fishing is two hatchery steelhead, marked with a clipped adipose fin and measuring at least 20 inches in length. Anglers must retain any legal hatchery steelhead they catch until they reach their daily limit of two fish. At that point, they must stop fishing for steelhead.
Any steelhead with an intact adipose fin must be released unharmed and must not be removed from the water.
Selective gear rules apply to all areas where steelhead seasons are open. All anglers are required to follow selective gear rules and restrictions described in WDFW’s Fishing in Washington pamphlet, available online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/.
Areas that will be open to fishing for hatchery steelhead on March 16 include:
Wenatchee River: From the mouth to the Icicle River Road Bridge, including the Icicle River from the mouth to a point 500 feet downstream of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery Barrier Dam. Night closure and selective gear rules apply. Motorized vessels are not allowed.
Methow River: From the mouth to the confluence with the Chewuch River in Winthrop. Fishing from a floating device is prohibited from the second powerline crossing to the first Highway 153 Bridge. Night closure and selective gear rules apply.
Okanogan River: From the mouth upstream to the Highway 97 Bridge in Oroville. Night closure and selective gear rules apply. All fishing is closed from the first powerline crossing downstream of the Highway 155 Bridge in Omak (Coulee Dam Credit Union Building) to the mouth of Omak Creek and from the Tonasket Bridge (Fourth Street) downstream to the Tonasket Lagoons Park boat launch.
Similkameen River: From the mouth upstream to 400 feet below Enloe Dam.
Areas that will open to fishing for whitefish on March 16 include:
Wenatchee River: From the mouth to the Highway 2 bridge at Leavenworth.
Methow River: From Gold Creek to the falls above Brush Creek.
To participate in these fisheries, anglers must possess a valid fishing license and a Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement. Revenue from the endorsement supports salmon or steelhead seasons on many rivers in the Columbia River system, including enforcing fishery regulations and monitoring the upper Columbia River steelhead fisheries.
The endorsement has generated more than $1 million annually for WDFW to maintain and increase fishing opportunities throughout the Columbia River basin.
OLYMPIA – Starting Friday (March 16), the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) will reopen selective fisheries for hatchery-reared steelhead on the Wenatchee, Icicle, and Methow rivers on a short-term basis.
Anglers will be allowed to catch whitefish in the Wenatchee and Methow rivers so long as those rivers are open to steelhead fishing.
Steelhead fisheries in all three rivers are tentatively scheduled to run through March 31, but could end sooner if fishing impacts on wild steelhead reach annual federal limits, said Jeff Korth, regional WDFW fish manager.
“These limited openings are designed to support wild-steelhead recovery by reducing the number of hatchery fish on the spawning grounds,” Korth said. “Anglers can play an important role in that effort by removing hatchery fish not needed to meet spawning goals.”
Because the fisheries could close on short notice, Korth recommends that anglers check the department’s Fishing Hotline at (360-902-2500) or Fishing Rule website (http://wdfw.wa.gov/) for updates.
The Similkameen and Okanogan rivers will remain open for steelhead fishing, although sections of the Okanogan River around the mouth of Omak and Tonasket creeks will close to all fishing March 16 to protect wild steelhead staging for spawning.
The daily limit on all rivers open to fishing is two hatchery steelhead, marked with a clipped adipose fin and measuring at least 20 inches in length. Anglers must retain any legal hatchery steelhead they catch until they reach their daily limit of two fish. At that point, they must stop fishing for steelhead.
Any steelhead with an intact adipose fin must be released unharmed and must not be removed from the water.
Selective gear rules apply to all areas where steelhead seasons are open. All anglers are required to follow selective gear rules and restrictions described in WDFW’s Fishing in Washington pamphlet, available online at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/.
Areas that will be open to fishing for hatchery steelhead on March 16 include:
Wenatchee River: From the mouth to the Icicle River Road Bridge, including the Icicle River from the mouth to a point 500 feet downstream of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery Barrier Dam. Night closure and selective gear rules apply. Motorized vessels are not allowed.
Methow River: From the mouth to the confluence with the Chewuch River in Winthrop. Fishing from a floating device is prohibited from the second powerline crossing to the first Highway 153 Bridge. Night closure and selective gear rules apply.
Okanogan River: From the mouth upstream to the Highway 97 Bridge in Oroville. Night closure and selective gear rules apply. All fishing is closed from the first powerline crossing downstream of the Highway 155 Bridge in Omak (Coulee Dam Credit Union Building) to the mouth of Omak Creek and from the Tonasket Bridge (Fourth Street) downstream to the Tonasket Lagoons Park boat launch.
Similkameen River: From the mouth upstream to 400 feet below Enloe Dam.
Areas that will open to fishing for whitefish on March 16 include:
Wenatchee River: From the mouth to the Highway 2 bridge at Leavenworth.
Methow River: From Gold Creek to the falls above Brush Creek.
To participate in these fisheries, anglers must possess a valid fishing license and a Columbia River Salmon/Steelhead Endorsement. Revenue from the endorsement supports salmon or steelhead seasons on many rivers in the Columbia River system, including enforcing fishery regulations and monitoring the upper Columbia River steelhead fisheries.
The endorsement has generated more than $1 million annually for WDFW to maintain and increase fishing opportunities throughout the Columbia River basin.
Bingo Bugs & Frisky Flys
After a good number of years of not being able to procure this popular trout lure we once again have both Bingo Bugs and Frisky Flys in stock. We have eight colors and two sizes (6 & 8) of the Frisky Flys and eight colors in size 6 in the Bingo Bugs. Both lures retail for $3.99ea.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Shrimp Seasons Set
Recreational spot shrimp fishery opens May 5 in Puget Sound
OLYMPIA – Sport fishing for spot shrimp opens May 5 in Puget Sound under seasons announced today by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
Shrimp fishing opportunities in various areas of Puget Sound will be similar to last year, although there is one change this season that was made to avoid an extreme minus tide, said Mark O’Toole, a shellfish biologist for WDFW.
Unlike previous years, the shrimp fishery will not reopen on the following Wednesday after the May 5 opener. Instead, the fishery will reopen in most areas on Friday, May 11.
“With such an extreme low tide on that Wednesday (May 9) it only made sense to shift the second day of fishing to Friday,” O’Toole said. "We don’t want to leave shrimpers stranded 100 feet from the boat ramp on a low afternoon tide.”
In all areas of Puget Sound, fishers are limited to 80 spot shrimp per day. A valid 2012-13 fishing license is required to participate in the fishery.
O’Toole said he expects a strong turnout by shrimp fishers, especially on opening day. “Because this is such a popular fishery, boat ramps can get pretty crowded,” he said. “As always, we ask that people be patient at the ramps and wait their turn."
Spot shrimp seasons for various areas of Puget Sound are:
Hood Canal Shrimp District (Marine Area 12): Open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 5, 11, 12 and 16.
Discovery Bay Shrimp District (Marine Area 6): Open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 5, 11, 12 and 16.
Marine areas 4 (east of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line), 5, 6 and 13 (excluding shrimp districts): Open daily beginning May 5 at 7 a.m. The spot shrimp season closes when the quota is attained or Sept. 15, whichever comes first. The exception is Marine Area 13, which closes for spot shrimp May 31.
Marine Area 7: Opens May 5 at 7 a.m. and will be open May 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19.
Marine areas 8, 9, 10 and 11: Open May 5 and May 11 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Additional dates and times will be announced for these areas if sufficient quota remains.
For a description of the marine areas and fishing rules, including regulations for coonstripe and pink shrimp fishing seasons, see WDFW’s Recreational Shrimp Fishing website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfish/shrimp/.
OLYMPIA – Sport fishing for spot shrimp opens May 5 in Puget Sound under seasons announced today by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
Shrimp fishing opportunities in various areas of Puget Sound will be similar to last year, although there is one change this season that was made to avoid an extreme minus tide, said Mark O’Toole, a shellfish biologist for WDFW.
Unlike previous years, the shrimp fishery will not reopen on the following Wednesday after the May 5 opener. Instead, the fishery will reopen in most areas on Friday, May 11.
“With such an extreme low tide on that Wednesday (May 9) it only made sense to shift the second day of fishing to Friday,” O’Toole said. "We don’t want to leave shrimpers stranded 100 feet from the boat ramp on a low afternoon tide.”
In all areas of Puget Sound, fishers are limited to 80 spot shrimp per day. A valid 2012-13 fishing license is required to participate in the fishery.
O’Toole said he expects a strong turnout by shrimp fishers, especially on opening day. “Because this is such a popular fishery, boat ramps can get pretty crowded,” he said. “As always, we ask that people be patient at the ramps and wait their turn."
Spot shrimp seasons for various areas of Puget Sound are:
Hood Canal Shrimp District (Marine Area 12): Open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on May 5, 11, 12 and 16.
Discovery Bay Shrimp District (Marine Area 6): Open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. on May 5, 11, 12 and 16.
Marine areas 4 (east of the Bonilla-Tatoosh line), 5, 6 and 13 (excluding shrimp districts): Open daily beginning May 5 at 7 a.m. The spot shrimp season closes when the quota is attained or Sept. 15, whichever comes first. The exception is Marine Area 13, which closes for spot shrimp May 31.
Marine Area 7: Opens May 5 at 7 a.m. and will be open May 11, 12, 17, 18 and 19.
Marine areas 8, 9, 10 and 11: Open May 5 and May 11 from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Additional dates and times will be announced for these areas if sufficient quota remains.
For a description of the marine areas and fishing rules, including regulations for coonstripe and pink shrimp fishing seasons, see WDFW’s Recreational Shrimp Fishing website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/shellfish/shrimp/.
"New" 3.5" BNR Holey Steelhead Worm
BNR Tackle has recently produced a smaller version of it's popular steelhead "Holey Worm". The newest addition is 3.5 inches, an ideal size for lower / clearer water conditions giving you an additional weapon in your arsenal of steelhead tackle. These worms come in the same four fish tantalizing pink hues as the 6 inch version.
Pearl Pink
Cotton Candy
Bubblegum
Flour. Pink
They come packaged 8 to a bag for $4.99ea.
Pearl Pink
Cotton Candy
Bubblegum
Flour. Pink
They come packaged 8 to a bag for $4.99ea.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Lone Lake - Whidbey Island
We have had some good reports from some of our fly fishing customers this past week from Lone Lake on Whidbey Island. The fish have been quite good sized with most of the fish in the 14 - 19 inch range with an occasional larger rainbow. The fish have been in outstanding shape and quite robust in stature. As far as flies go there have been a number of patterns that have been producing well. Try small leech patterns in black, olive or maroon colors; blood worms in reddish colors and chironomids in blacks, olives, reds as well as "chromies" have all been producing well.
Chelan Report - Anton Jones - Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service
What continues hot is trolling the lower basin of Lake Chelan for Lakers. Roses Lake is finally clearing it’s rotten ice portion of the year.
On Chelan, continue to fish the deep water in the lower basin of Lake Chelan for nice numbers of average size fish. Our “go to” lure in the Basin continues to be Silver Horde’s Ace Hi Fly in double glow Splatterback colors baited with a strip of Northern Pikeminnow. Mack’s Lures Cha Cha Squidders in glow colors similarly baited also worked. Drag these lures in 200 to 220 feet of water at speeds of 1.2 to 1.6 mph within five feet of the bottom for best success.
If you want to try a combination of extreme trolling for scads of little fish work over by the monument. This is for the advanced troller with anglers on board that are after numbers of small fish. Slow down to 1 to 1.2 mph. Use Worden Lures Flatfish in the F7 size. I prefer Luminous Chartreuse in this location. There are loads of fish, but the bottom is treacherous with rapidly changing depths and random rock spires that will devour gear.
We did not get out on Rufus again during this reporting period.
Roses Lake is finally shedding its ice. Still fishers are already working the public access area from shore for rainbow trout and perch. Soon, boaters will get into the act too.
Your fishing and kids tip of the week is to gear up for Roses Lake. This is a great place to fish with kids in the early spring. You can fish from shore and have an impromptu picnic or take a boat out for some fast action. From shore, slip sinker rigs with 3/8’s of an ounce of weight and 30” leader to a small treble hook baited with Pautzke’s Fire Bait should get you in the rainbow trout. For perch, start out with worms and move to perch eyes after you catch one. If the ice fishers experience is any indicator, it should be a great perch jerkin’ year. From a boat, we love trolling shallow presentations for loads of fast action. Our favorites are Mack’s Lures Cha Cha Squidders baited with a piece of Fire Corn or a #4 black wooly bugger with an Action Disk from WiggleFin.com in front of it.
Your safety tip of the week is a repeat to remember that Lake Chelan is in its low water time of the year. As the lake level drops towards 1084.5 you have to be cautious at Mill Bay so you don’t bang the bottom with your prop in certain situations. If you want the Manson Bay launch opened, call the Manson Parks and Recreation Department to open it for you.
by: Anton Jones of Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service
visit us on Facebook for daily updates and current specials
http://www.darrellanddads.com/ or 1-866-360-1523
Pictured: 3/10/12 Fishing buddies: Jason DePardo, Bill Wolak and James Butts of Bellevue, Issaqual and Seattle respectively with their catch of Lake Chelan Mackinaw.
On Chelan, continue to fish the deep water in the lower basin of Lake Chelan for nice numbers of average size fish. Our “go to” lure in the Basin continues to be Silver Horde’s Ace Hi Fly in double glow Splatterback colors baited with a strip of Northern Pikeminnow. Mack’s Lures Cha Cha Squidders in glow colors similarly baited also worked. Drag these lures in 200 to 220 feet of water at speeds of 1.2 to 1.6 mph within five feet of the bottom for best success.
If you want to try a combination of extreme trolling for scads of little fish work over by the monument. This is for the advanced troller with anglers on board that are after numbers of small fish. Slow down to 1 to 1.2 mph. Use Worden Lures Flatfish in the F7 size. I prefer Luminous Chartreuse in this location. There are loads of fish, but the bottom is treacherous with rapidly changing depths and random rock spires that will devour gear.
We did not get out on Rufus again during this reporting period.
Roses Lake is finally shedding its ice. Still fishers are already working the public access area from shore for rainbow trout and perch. Soon, boaters will get into the act too.
Your fishing and kids tip of the week is to gear up for Roses Lake. This is a great place to fish with kids in the early spring. You can fish from shore and have an impromptu picnic or take a boat out for some fast action. From shore, slip sinker rigs with 3/8’s of an ounce of weight and 30” leader to a small treble hook baited with Pautzke’s Fire Bait should get you in the rainbow trout. For perch, start out with worms and move to perch eyes after you catch one. If the ice fishers experience is any indicator, it should be a great perch jerkin’ year. From a boat, we love trolling shallow presentations for loads of fast action. Our favorites are Mack’s Lures Cha Cha Squidders baited with a piece of Fire Corn or a #4 black wooly bugger with an Action Disk from WiggleFin.com in front of it.
Your safety tip of the week is a repeat to remember that Lake Chelan is in its low water time of the year. As the lake level drops towards 1084.5 you have to be cautious at Mill Bay so you don’t bang the bottom with your prop in certain situations. If you want the Manson Bay launch opened, call the Manson Parks and Recreation Department to open it for you.
by: Anton Jones of Darrell & Dad's Family Guide Service
visit us on Facebook for daily updates and current specials
http://www.darrellanddads.com/ or 1-866-360-1523
Pictured: 3/10/12 Fishing buddies: Jason DePardo, Bill Wolak and James Butts of Bellevue, Issaqual and Seattle respectively with their catch of Lake Chelan Mackinaw.
6th Annual Everett Blackmouth Derby - Saturday March 17th
Don't forget the 6th Annual Everett Blackmouth Derby to be held this Saturday, March 17th! This is a very popular derby and there is only a limited number of tickets. There are 100 tickets, which will allow only a 100 boats with a maximum of four anglers per boat. Tickets are $100.00 each! For information of the prizes as well as rules http://www.everettbalckmouthderby.com/ .
As of today (Monday 12th March), we have just 2 tickets remaining at Ted's.
We wish all of you participating in the derby a "Great" day on the water - Good Luck!
As of today (Monday 12th March), we have just 2 tickets remaining at Ted's.
We wish all of you participating in the derby a "Great" day on the water - Good Luck!
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Blackman's Lake - Trout Fishing
If you are looking to do a little trout fishing this weekend you might give Blackman's Lake in Snohomish a try. The Snohomish County Sportsman's Club planted the lake this past week with a good number of triploids. The guys that have been fishing the lake this week have been doing quite well. You can still fish from one of the three public fishing piers on the lake or bring your boat to gain a little more access to the water. Most folks have been still fishing with Power Bait or Gulp products. Some of the boat fishermen are trolling small spoons such as "Dick Nites"or plugs such as "Flatfish" or "Hot Shots". Many of the fish being caught are in the 2 - 3 pound range.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Fly Casting Class for Beginners
The Northwest Fly Anglers will be offering a 8 week fly casting course oriented for the beginner starting Tuesday April 3. The class will be held at Seattle's Green Lake Casting Pier from 6:30 - 8:00 pm . Cost is $40.00. For information or enrollment call (425) 486-5011
If you have ever wanted to learn to fly cast this would be a "Great" opportunity to learn.
If you have ever wanted to learn to fly cast this would be a "Great" opportunity to learn.
Tuesday, March 6, 2012
Lake Stevens Kokanee Derby - Saturday May 19th
For those of you that have been wondering about the Lake Steven's Kokanee Derby, the date has been set for Saturday May 19th! In speaking with Mark Spada today we should have all the information as well as tickets around April 1st. Tickets will run $20.00 / person 15 years or older. Kids 14 and under are "FREE". I will post more information as things develop.
Razor Clam Dig Is A Go!
morning razor-clam dig of the year set for March 10-11
OLYMPIA – State fishery managers approved a morning razor clam dig at four ocean beaches this weekend (March 10-11) after marine toxin tests confirmed that the clams on those beaches are safe to eat.
The dig, scheduled at Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks beaches, marks the first time this season that clam diggers will be allowed to harvest razor clams on morning tides. No digging will be allowed after noon at any of those beaches.
“This is the first in a series of multi-day morning digs tentatively scheduled in the coming weeks,” said Dan Ayres, coastal shellfish manager for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “A lot of people wait all year to dig razor clams on morning tides.”
Morning low tides and beach openings for this weekend are:
Saturday, March 10, (7:39 a.m. -0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
Sunday, March 11, (9:28 a.m. -0.4 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
Ayres recommends that diggers hit the beach about two hours before morning low tide for best results. He also reminds prospective diggers that Daylight Savings Time begins March 11, which is why there is an extra hour between the low tides this weekend.
“It’s important that everyone is operating on Daylight Savings Time for the dig on Sunday, because the beaches close to digging at noon,” Ayres said.
Under state law, diggers can take 15 razor clams per day, and are required to keep the first 15 they dig. Each digger's clams must be kept in a separate container.
All diggers age 15 or older must have a 2011/2012 fishing license to harvest razor clams on any beach. Licensing options range from a three-day razor clam license to an annual combination fishing license, which can be purchased on WDFW's website (https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov) and from license vendors around the state.
Shellfish managers have also tentatively proposed two other morning digs through early April, although final approval will depend on the results of future marine toxin tests. Proposed beach openings, along with morning low tides, for those digs are:
March 24, Saturday (8:25 a.m., +0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
March 25, Sunday (8:59 a.m., +0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
April 7, Saturday (7:36 a.m., -1.2 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch
April 8, Sunday (8:23 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch
April 9, Monday (9:11 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Kalaloch
Updated information on razor clam seasons is available on WDFW’s toll-free Shellfish Hotline at (866) 880-5431.
OLYMPIA – State fishery managers approved a morning razor clam dig at four ocean beaches this weekend (March 10-11) after marine toxin tests confirmed that the clams on those beaches are safe to eat.
The dig, scheduled at Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks beaches, marks the first time this season that clam diggers will be allowed to harvest razor clams on morning tides. No digging will be allowed after noon at any of those beaches.
“This is the first in a series of multi-day morning digs tentatively scheduled in the coming weeks,” said Dan Ayres, coastal shellfish manager for the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW). “A lot of people wait all year to dig razor clams on morning tides.”
Morning low tides and beach openings for this weekend are:
Saturday, March 10, (7:39 a.m. -0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
Sunday, March 11, (9:28 a.m. -0.4 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
Ayres recommends that diggers hit the beach about two hours before morning low tide for best results. He also reminds prospective diggers that Daylight Savings Time begins March 11, which is why there is an extra hour between the low tides this weekend.
“It’s important that everyone is operating on Daylight Savings Time for the dig on Sunday, because the beaches close to digging at noon,” Ayres said.
Under state law, diggers can take 15 razor clams per day, and are required to keep the first 15 they dig. Each digger's clams must be kept in a separate container.
All diggers age 15 or older must have a 2011/2012 fishing license to harvest razor clams on any beach. Licensing options range from a three-day razor clam license to an annual combination fishing license, which can be purchased on WDFW's website (https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov) and from license vendors around the state.
Shellfish managers have also tentatively proposed two other morning digs through early April, although final approval will depend on the results of future marine toxin tests. Proposed beach openings, along with morning low tides, for those digs are:
March 24, Saturday (8:25 a.m., +0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, Mocrocks
March 25, Sunday (8:59 a.m., +0.3 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks
April 7, Saturday (7:36 a.m., -1.2 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch
April 8, Sunday (8:23 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Mocrocks, Kalaloch
April 9, Monday (9:11 a.m., -1.5 ft.): Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Kalaloch
Updated information on razor clam seasons is available on WDFW’s toll-free Shellfish Hotline at (866) 880-5431.
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