Bit of a late report, we fished opening day on Thursday, with relatively light crowds where we were at.

Giving this 5 stars because, even though it's the Puke, it's not every day your 10 yr old gets to catch their first Pink in a river, especially in a new fishing experience and with barbless hooks on top of that. He's use to hatchery brats in the lakes. He went 1 for 9, and brought in a relativley nice fish, slightly on the smallish side even for a Pink, but nonetheless his first salmon out of a river (and it smoked up just fine).

The 2nd reason for 5 stars is a new personal best, for me; 26 lb King. Thought it was a foul hooked pink at first, but when the reel started screaming the adrenaline kicked in. I didnt want to lose it, running 10lb test with 8lb leader so I loosened the drag some more and let him run. 15 minutes later and with the assistance of a nearby fisherman, I realized that yes, I need a bigger net.

Followed it up with another Pink hen, then had trouble hooking anything; my arms and shoulders hurt and I wasnt feeling the line very well anymore.

All in it was a beautiful day to be on the water, making memories with the little man that will last him a lifetime.

And to me that's what it's all about.

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