I think it is hot in Washington now. I live here and I have fished the Vedder for the past 10 years. I will take the vedder over Washington rivers for Chinook/Springs. It is also a really good wading river compared to many coastal Washington rivers. I haven't fished the Vedder for steelhead, so I can't compare it. However, In 4 hours fishing over 2 days this year in Central Washington, I have hooked 14 steelhead, landed 10 of them with one 14#, one 15# and none under 8# without bait. I also have a friend that has over 60 steelhead caught this year. It usually gets better in December, so I can't wait. Unlike your season, ours usually closes in February to allow fish to spawn without being harrassed. As far as coho, I'd take coastal Washington rivers over the Vedder (as long as I have a boat). The fish are bigger, brighter and seem more willing to hit your lure. Chum are a toss up and pinks are too.
If you're into bass, I'd take Washington waters any day. My big fish is 10# and have caught more than I can count in the 5# range for largemouth and several 4# smallmouth. It's not uncommon to have 60 fish days for bass in several lakes and rivers here. If you're into triploid trout...keep your eyes open in the next few years for fish approaching 30 #. I personally know someone who has caught a 19 and 21# triploid this year on Rufus Woods reservoir in a kick boat with a fly rod.
One more difference that I have noticed is our WDFW officers seem more aggressive with people breaking the rules. They are not shy at all about coming up to you and checking you out. They are also commonly glassing the river for violators. Also, in many cases, tickets are written and gear is confiscated. I have never had a DFO officer ask to see my license, check my hook, nor have I ever seen one ask anyone else on the Vedder, despite the blatant attempts to harrass/snag fish. Don't get me wrong, we still have way more than our fair share of A holes, I just notice them getting busted more.
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Topic: Fishing in Washington (Read 7641 times)