Calm Seas, Big Bites – A Perfect Day Fishing the West Side of Puget Sound

Date: July 10, 2025

Yesterday was one of those fishing days you dream about. I took my brother out on the West Side of Puget Sound, and from the moment we launched, everything just clicked. The weather was flawless — warm, clear skies, and water as calm as it gets. Perfect conditions for light tackle mooching, and the fish were more than willing to cooperate.

We had steady action throughout the day, releasing a nice mix of Chinook and Coho Salmon. A few Rockfish, a couple of solid True Cod, and even a Spiny Dogfish or two kept things interesting. Nothing beats that first hit on a mooched herring when you’re holding the rod and feel the weight load up — classic Puget Sound fishing.

Adding to the scene, a few seals decided to hang out near the boat, putting on a show of their own. We watched them inhale what looked like tiny pink salmon whole, like they were candy. It was wild — and a reminder that we weren’t the only ones out there hunting.

As usual, my brother managed to hook the largest fish of the day. It’s kind of tradition at this point — he’s got the fish mojo. But I held my own and matched him for quality, and there’s something satisfying about a day where the catching is as good as the company.

We released all our fish, but the memories stuck. It was one of those rare days where the gear, the water, and the fish all cooperate. Can’t ask for more than that.