Although not the worst fishing we've had this year our fourth ling cod trip was not productive. Punctuated by non-sucessful hook-ups and terrible weather it might have been nicer just to stay in!
We started out fishing for bait on Alki as usual - tying up to the first buoy after the beach - (WARNING! They had a float tied to it which has flipped over leaving it partly submerged 1'- 5' under the water - this could really mess up your boat.) Bait fishing was slow, the tide was ripping and I think they had all settled under the sand waiting. Needless to say we had less than normal sand dabs.
As the time was hitting slack tide we headed over to the Magnolia Marina - what a mess! We must have hit one of the ferry swells just right as the water crested over the boat and poured into the cabin all over us! With a cover on and everything! I've never seen our tide runner take a hit like that and can't say I'd like to again. Now wet, cranky, and tired we reached the marina in just 20 extra minutes from the usual 12 minute crossing.
With three people fishing jigs and live bait we managed two rock fish and a giant starfish. Probably 4 Ling hook-ups throughout but not one even close enough to grab the net for! We called it around 8:30 when our hunger overcame our desire to be out in that miserable water without catching any fish.
Of course that was followed with another 35 minute crossing Elliott Bay! Well - three fish for four trips this year might have to do, wish it was more but hey, salmon are just around the corner.

Nice to fish with you anyways, salmonberry!

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