Formed where the Skykomish and Snoqualmie rivers meet near Monroe, the Snohomish River flows northwest to Possession Sound at Everett and ranks among the most accessible salmon fisheries in the Puget Sound region. It’s only 35 to 45 minutes from Seattle, and its wide, tidal lower river draws everyone from bank anglers to guided jet boats.
Seattle Fishing Company’s guide explains that fall is the main event, with coho and Chinook moving through, pink salmon arriving in odd-numbered years, and chum providing late-season action from October through December. Summer brings the Skykomish’s famous summer steelhead, while winter steelhead run from December through March, mostly in the tributaries. Spring is largely closed to protect wild steelhead.
Top access includes Bob Heirman Wildlife Preserve at Thomas’ Eddy, the Snohomish Riverfront Walk, the Highway 522 bridge near Monroe, and Langus and Lowell riverfront parks in Everett. Tides matter on the lower river, so plan launches accordingly. The guide recommends Dick Nite spoons, twitching jigs, spinners and plugs for fall salmon. Because wild Chinook protections have led to frequent restrictions on the tributaries, always check current regulations before heading out. It’s a busy, rewarding river close to home.
Read the full post here: Fishing the Snohomish River
Guide to fishing on the Skagit River
