On Friday September 4th, I took my buddy and his 9 year old son out for the son’s first ever salmon fishing experience. I had this same honor last year for his first lake / trout fishing experience. I also had my usual fishing partner from work with me for the event.

We had lines in the water by 6:45 am and by 7:15 the 9 year old plays his first salmon. With a little help holding the pole to keep the tip up, he brings a very nice king to the boat. We estimated him at around 16 pounds. He was safely released unharmed. The youngster was a very excited camper and played the fish like a pro. By 9:15 am the boy had fought and landed 4 pinks, and lost a 5th near the boat. The last 2 we encountered came on a double which my buddy and I handled and successfully landed. With 6 nice pinks on board including 1 5 pounder, the trip ended after the double due to obligations later in the morning and early afternoon. Everyone had a great time including the youngster who had the time of his life. His dad told me he would be talking about this trip for weeks and was very excited to be able to bring home dinner for his mom to cook up. The fish were jumping everywhere so by all accounts I believe they are still in this area in high numbers which is good news. All our fish were taken at between 50 and 75 feet. There was also a lot of debris (sea weed) in the water which made keeping it off the flashers and mini squids difficult. Pictured: Leaving the launch as the moon disappears. 5 of the 6 fish from the trip. 1 went home with the youngster for dinner. They only wanted one.

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