First some history—

Grew up in Utah and primarily fished for Rainbows, LMB, catfish etc. When life kicked in full gear (school, marriage, career), fishing became a fondly remembered activity that I vowed to resume one day. Then I ended up relocating up here to the Seattle area and was frustrated to learn that—although Lakes are abundant—most are surrounded by private homes leaving very little opportunity for good shoreline fishing. Essentially it’s get out on the water or forget fishing (at least that was my attitude). Then when I also factored in how crazy my work life was, I just never bothered to figure out the fishing story here in Washington state. That was 16 years ago.

Well, little over a years ago I decided it was time to revisit the idea of fishing. That meant it was time to get into boating. My kids certainly voiced their strong opinion that a boat was a must-have—and not just for fishing. Long story shorter, I spent insane time researching boat options and finally made the investment into something I could fish from and enjoys skiing/water sports.

Next came fishing. Started researching—found this website and others—and learned there was this fish called “Kokanee” that everyone was raving about. I’d never heard of them before. Sounded like fun to catch something new. Over the next year I think I tried catching these little buggers at least 6-7 times, and until today just couldn’t seem to figure out the magic. Had some decent success with Bass and Perch on Stevens. Got into some nice Rainbows trolling Sammamish. Had a blast last summer going after Walleye and Bass on Banks. But the dang Kokanee eluded me. Until today! Even today was a poor outing as far as fish counts go—BUT—I can finally say I have caught the elusive Kokanee!

On the water by 5:30AM. Finally hit my first ever Kok by 6:30. A nice one too—just shy 15”. Continued our pursuit of more. Others seemed to have them dialed in better from what I could see. Then at around 7:30am I was just changing out the lure color—had let the line out 25 feet—was reaching to attach it to the DR when “BAM”—fish on! Handed the pole to my son thinking I had probably hooked into a decent rainbow near the surface. Nope. Catfish! On a green wedding ring with green gulp maggots. Didn’t see that coming. Anyway, we tossed that one back and resumed the hunt. Ended up losing a couple before we finally boated our final Kok of the day at just past 10AM—another 13” nice one.

Overall it was a good time. I think I’m finally starting to figure this kokanee stuff out. Hopefully they continue to bite a least a bit more this month as I won’t have much time come August (dang work). Heck, I may see if I can sneak back out there again tomorrow…although my son wants to try Lake Washington (haven’t fished it yet). We’ll see. :)