Nisqually River Fishing: Salmon, Trout, and More Adventures Await!

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Explore the diverse fishing opportunities awaiting you on the Nisqually River, located just north of Olympia. This vast 720-square-mile drainage area is a prime spot for catching Chinook, Coho, Pink, and Chum salmon at their peak seasons, from late summer through January. While the lower river might require you to catch-and-release trout, the upper river beckons with excellent, albeit challenging, trout fishing thanks to its glacial runoff. Strategic fishing techniques and the rich ecosystem promise excitement, with ongoing conservation efforts enhancing your experience. The intricacies of each fishing season and location promise further insights into your impending adventure.

Key Takeaways

  • The Nisqually River offers diverse salmon fishing seasons, including Chinook, Coho, Pink, and Chum salmon.
  • Trout fishing is best in the upper river and tributaries, with catch-and-release regulations in the lower river.
  • The Gifford Pinchot National Forest provides year-round access to prime trout fishing spots.
  • Steelhead conservation efforts are underway to combat population decline, with tribal and community involvement.
  • Nearby destinations like Olalla Lake and Upper Sacramento River offer additional fishing opportunities.

Discovering Nisqually River's Location

Situated just 8 miles north of Olympia, WA, the Nisqually River weaves through the counties of Thurston, Pierce, and Lewis. As you explore its 78-mile course, beginning on the southern slope of Mt. Rainier, you'll notice it flows northwest towards Puget Sound. This river isn't just a geographical feature; it's a dynamic ecosystem. Along its path, it merges with streams like Van Trump Creek, Paradise River, Muck Creek, and the Mashel River, contributing to its 720-square-mile drainage area. The lower portion of the river is considered the best remaining intact salmon habitat, making it crucial for the preservation of aquatic life. Nearby cities such as Eatonville, Roy, and Yelm are part of the river's watershed, offering unique access points for exploration. You'll find lower river access on 6th Avenue SE, near the railroad bridge, and further access at Riverbend Campground off Clubhouse Lane SE. Nisqually State Park, nestled between Mashel River and Ohop Creek, provides opportunities for hiking, fishing, and bird watching. The Nisqually River is notable for being the only river in the country bookended by federally protected areas, highlighting its ecological significance. The surrounding land use is varied: the upper watershed is predominantly forestry and recreational space, while the lower watershed combines forestry with rural and residential areas. Conservation efforts, including the restoration of tidal hydrology to the estuary, are essential for maintaining habitats for species like the Southern Resident orca. Anglers interested in premier fishing destinations might also want to explore Olalla Lake in Oregon for another serene fishing experience. The Upper Sacramento River in California also offers excellent trout fishing opportunities, attracting anglers from all over with its thriving trout fishery.

Salmon Fishing Seasons

Commence your salmon fishing adventure along the Nisqually River by understanding the precise timing of each salmon run. The Chinook salmon arrive in late summer, with peak activity in September. Concentrate your efforts in the lower Nisqually River, primarily targeting hatchery fish, as wild Chinook must be released unharmed. For Coho salmon, late September marks their movement through the river. These fish are part of the Nisqually Indian Tribe's hatchery program and their runs can fluctuate due to ocean conditions, making timing integral. It's important to recognize that river conditions and salmon movement can change over time, so being adaptable is key.

Pink salmon offer a unique challenge, appearing in odd-numbered years. They typically show up in late July, creating a vibrant fishery through August and early September. Keep in mind that their abundance varies, driven by unpredictable ocean conditions. Chum salmon, arriving in November and persisting into early winter, demand careful consideration. They must be released unharmed, and their spawning peaks after the river closes to fishing on November 15. The Chum salmon spawn from November to January, continuing their life cycle in the gravel beds of streams flowing into the Nisqually estuary. Trout, particularly during light rain, become more active and feeding increases as rain washes in terrestrial insects and worms. Trout fishing in early spring and fall is often successful near the shorelines, where fish are more accessible.

Trout Fishing Highlights

For those keen on trout fishing along the Nisqually River, understanding the diverse habitats and imperative regulations is essential. You'll encounter three native trout species here: coastal cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and bull trout. In the lower river, it's managed as a catch-and-release fishery for cutthroat and wild rainbow trout below the Alder Lake hydroelectric projects. It's indispensable to release any non-clipped rainbows and sea-run cutthroat you catch. To enhance your fishing success, consider using a light power rod to increase line sensitivity and ease of hook sets.

While the lower river may not offer much excitement, the tributaries and upper river provide better fishing opportunities. The upper river, governed by statewide trout-fishing regulations, hosts smaller cutthroat and rainbow trout. However, be mindful of the glacial runoff, which can make the water milky and challenging for fishing. The Gifford Pinchot National Forest, which is accessible year-round, offers a variety of fishing opportunities that can be explored. Weightless techniques can be particularly effective here, offering a natural presentation that can entice even the most cautious trout.

Certain areas, like JBLM land, may have restricted access or special rules, and much of the lower river is private property. These factors, combined with seasonal access to some lakes, can limit your fishing adventures. Consider visiting Alder Lake for a mix of trout and warmwater fishing, especially during spring. Remember, conservation is key, so follow regulations to protect these precious fisheries.

Steelhead Conservation Efforts

The concerted efforts to conserve steelhead populations in the Nisqually River basin are pivotal for ecological balance and sustainable fishing practices. You should know that the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and the Puget Sound Steelhead Advisory Group (PSSAG) have rolled out the Quicksilver Portfolio, which aims to restore steelhead while supporting fishing. This strategic plan emphasizes collaboration, habitat protection, and implementation of conservation measures. Since 1980, 52% of steelhead populations in Washington have shown a downward trend. In response, a quantitative risk assessment identified 21 high-risk populations, with 9 in Puget Sound alone.

Habitat loss is a significant threat, especially from dams that block migration routes. In the Nisqually River delta, harbor seals pose another challenge by preying on up to a third of migrating steelhead smolts. The Quicksilver Portfolio also aims to enhance public awareness and education about steelhead conservation to encourage community participation. Anglers visiting Bethany Lake near Beaverton may find inspiration in these efforts, as the lake is a destination for diverse fishing opportunities including trout and bass. Addressing these issues, the Quicksilver Portfolio includes adaptive management strategies, population monitoring, and hatchery planning. Tribal involvement is critical; the Nisqually Indian Tribe is actively managing seal predation to protect treaty fishing rights. Estuary restoration efforts are also underway, focusing on the return of tidal flats and mitigating impacts from structures like Interstate 5. Protecting 90% of the river's core habitat remains a top priority. Washington's Columbia River offers exceptional fishing opportunities and serves as a model for balancing recreational and ecological interests.

Popular Fishing Spots

Exploring the diverse fishing spots along the Nisqually River offers both recreational opportunities and scientific intrigue. The upper Nisqually River boasts several notable locations. Gifford Pinchot National Forest provides varied fishing experiences across lakes and streams, with rainbow trout and kokanee among the species you can catch. Mineral Lake is renowned for its spring kokanee fishing and also supports trout and bass populations. Meanwhile, Alder Lake is annually stocked with up to 500,000 kokanee in spring, and it's a habitat for largemouth and smallmouth bass, black crappie, and yellow perch. Notably, the lake has thriving populations of these diverse species, making it a prime spot for anglers seeking variety. Ohop Lake also offers year-round fishing with active boat launches for rainbow trout and kokanee. Anglers can enhance their experience by using winter camping gear to stay warm and comfortable during extended fishing trips.

In the lower Nisqually River, the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is accessible by boat, with fishing permitted from June to September. Here, hatchery salmon are a popular catch. The 6th Avenue Boat Ramp provides ADA-approved facilities, ensuring inclusivity. JBLM requires prior permission for access, offering a unique fishing experience. Guided fishing trips on the river target King and Coho salmon, providing an opportunity to catch large, 20-pound salmon. Ultimately, the Clear Creek Hatchery greatly contributes to the river's fish populations, producing thousands of Chinook and coho annually. Anglers should consider utilizing cold weather-rated lithium batteries when fishing in cooler conditions to ensure reliable equipment performance. Each location requires adherence to specific regulations, ensuring sustainable fishing practices.

Understanding Fishing Regulations

Understanding fishing regulations along the Nisqually River is essential for both compliance and conservation. The river's ecosystem supports diverse fish species, necessitating strict rules to protect these populations. To make the process more convenient, anglers can purchase fishing licenses online, which reduces wait times and allows for easy access to necessary permits.

  1. Fishing Seasons and Timing: Salmon fishing is allowed from October 16 to January 31, with a daily limit of six and a minimum size of 12 inches. For steelhead, you can fish from December 1 to March 31, but you must use single-point barbless hooks. Trout season runs from the Saturday before Memorial Day to April 15, with specific size requirements. Additionally, certain rivers such as the Nemah River, North have specific regulations, including a daily limit of six salmon with restrictions on retaining wild Chinook.
  2. Licensing and Permits: If you're 15 or older, you'll need a fishing license, obtainable online, by phone, or through dealers. Catch record cards are mandatory for certain species, and group permits are available for specific organizations. Saltwater fishing license requirements, similar to those in New Jersey, ensure that anglers contribute to conservation efforts and comply with local laws.
  3. Regulations and Restrictions: Gear restrictions apply, especially for steelhead, where selective gear rules are enforced. Be mindful of bag limits and closed waters, as some areas prohibit fishing altogether. The Quillayute River System allows fishing from a floating device downstream of certain points, emphasizing the importance of understanding specific river system rules.
  4. Conservation Efforts: Regulations focus on salmon recovery and species protection, particularly for wild steelhead and salmon. The Nisqually River basin plays a pivotal role in these efforts, ensuring sustainable fishing for future generations.

Gear Requirements and Tips

After understanding the regulations that guarantee sustainable fishing on the Nisqually River, focusing on gear requirements and tips improves your fishing experience. Start with an 8 1/2- to 9-foot extra-heavy rod, ideal for targeting larger species like Chinook salmon. Pair it with a 40-60 pound monofilament or spectra mainline. For Chinook, a 20-25 pound line is sufficient, while a 10-15 pound line works for smaller fish like pink salmon. Attach a 12-48" monofilament leader, using 15-30 pound test for versatility.

Lures and baits play an indispensable role. Kwikfish wrapped with sardine are effective, especially when tuned to track straight upstream. Drift bobbers and thin bladed spoons are suitable for pink and coho salmon. Salmon roe and sand shrimp remain popular baits, but you can experiment with others. When drift fishing, consider using Corkies or Cheaters with Fire Cured eggs to enhance your setup. For trout, selecting the appropriate line strength is crucial to ensure a natural lure presentation and effective casting distance. Opting for a baitcaster reel can enhance your trout fishing experience, providing precise lure control and improved casting accuracy.

For location, focus on inside curves and tail-outs just upstream of riffles. Seasonal timing is essential: Chinook arrive in August, coho in late September, and chum in November. The Nisqually Nation works collaboratively with the state to support salmon recovery efforts, ensuring a thriving ecosystem for all species. Access points like the WDFW river access and Riverbend Campground provide strategic entry.

Protecting Wild Fish Populations

Frequently, the conservation of wild fish populations on the Nisqually River involves a multi-faceted approach that combines habitat preservation, mitigation of environmental threats, and community engagement. You can take part in these efforts, which aim to protect pivotal ecosystems for salmon and steelhead.

  1. Habitat Preservation: Collaborative efforts with the Nisqually Basin Land Trust and other entities have already protected 68% of the mainstem core habitat, with aspirations to reach 90%. Restoring 700 acres of estuary in the Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge is part of this plan. Anglers can learn from successful conservation practices at other locations, such as the Sacramento River, where catfish populations thrive due to preserved habitats. The success seen in regions like the Columbia River in Oregon shows the impact of dedicated habitat restoration on fish populations.
  2. Threat Mitigation: Addressing threats like dam building, suburban sprawl, and industrial pollution is essential. These factors have historically decimated wild salmon populations. Open-water net-pen farms and indiscriminate fishing practices further stress these populations. With salmon from many watersheds mixing on migration routes, it is crucial to implement selective fishing techniques to allow responsible harvest of abundant target species. The Wild Fish Conservancy conducts research and monitoring projects in marine and freshwater habitats to support these efforts.
  3. Gene Banks: The establishment of wild steelhead gene banks, like the one designated in 2016, prevents the release of hatchery steelhead. This initiative has led to an increase in wild steelhead numbers to over 2,000.
  4. Community Engagement: Organizations like Wild Fish Conservancy advocate for responsible management through science and education, fostering awareness and support for sustainable practices.

Seasonal Fishing Opportunities

As the seasons shift, the Nisqually River offers diverse fishing opportunities that cater to both enthusiasts and conservationists. In the fall, you can target Chinook salmon starting late August, with peak catches in September. During odd-numbered years, pink salmon join the fall run alongside coho. Regulations require the release of all wild Chinook, allowing you to keep only fin-marked fish. As November approaches, winter chum salmon season begins. It is crucial to remember that all chum salmon must be released unharmed, and fishing in the lower river closes on November 15, limiting chum fishing opportunities.

Spring and summer bring a change of focus to kokanee and trout fishing. Springtime in Alder Lake offers kokanee fishing, while the upper parts of the river and nearby lakes become ideal for trout. Trout season kicks off in June, but keep in mind that spring doesn't allow salmon fishing. However, the lower river reopens for salmon in July. During salmon runs, you might catch cutthroat trout in the lower river, but they must be released. Similarly, any non-clipped rainbow trout need releasing, ensuring compliance with local regulations and supporting conservation efforts. Using a regular spinning rod and reel setup can enhance your trout fishing experience, offering sensitivity and finesse essential for successful catches. For the best results, choose a reel size that matches your target trout species to accommodate line capacity and ensure a balanced fishing setup.

Access Points and Safety Tips

Exploring the Nisqually River requires careful planning, especially when it comes to access points and safety. You'll find several access locations, each with specific features and regulations. The 6th Ave (Nisqually Handicap) and Luhr Beach are managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), offering year-round access. These spots come equipped with amenities such as ADA fishing piers at 6th Ave and paved boat launches at Luhr Beach. It's pivotal to consult the Nisqually River Water Trail website for detailed maps and directions. Investing in quality ice fishing bibs can enhance comfort and safety during cold weather fishing adventures along the river. High-quality rubber boots with exceptional grip are also essential for ensuring stability and warmth while navigating icy conditions.

Safety on the river involves understanding environmental and regulatory factors. Here are key considerations:

  1. Hazards: Be mindful of log jams, whitewater, and cold water throughout the river, with tidal influences near the mouth. The reach has significant hazards, so wearing a life jacket and helmet is essential for safety.
  2. River Conditions: Flow conditions can vary; some areas are better for intermediate paddlers.
  3. Regulations: Pay attention to anti-snagging rules, barbless hooks requirements, and size limits for salmon.
  4. Tidal Knowledge: Understanding tidal influences is paramount for safe navigation, especially from 6th Ave to Luhr Beach.

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