Regulatory news makes the Port of Ilwaco the top Northwest coastal launch for charter fishing for the 2016 salmon season
ILWACO, Wash. – April 22, 2016 – A positive go ahead for salmon fishing on the Lower Columbia River came as a relief to charter boat operators out of The Port of Ilwaco, on Washington’s Long Beach Peninsula. The Washington State Department of Fish & Wildlife set quotas at 18,900 for Coho and 10,200 for Chinook. A two-fish daily limit of which one can be a Chinook was also set.
“Salmon fishing has always been the hot ticket here,” said Butch Smith president, Ilwaco Charter Association, and owner, Coho Charters. “We are happy to squelch rumors by letting sports fishers know that the fishery will be open this year, if only for a shorter window.”
Summer salmon season in Ocean Area 1 will open on July 1 and remain open seven days a week through August 31, or until quotas are met. Buoy 10 is anticipated to be announced soon.
Currently, Pacific Salmon Charters is offering excursions for bottom fish.
Halibut season opens May 1 and catch and release sturgeon season begins May 9.
“People have a great time catching lots of these prehistoric monsters,” said Smith, referring to a growing interest in the sport of sturgeon fishing.
Tuna season traditionally begins mid-summer.
The shortened season for salmon will translate into fewer seats available on charter fishing boats overall.
“Make sure you start making reservations now,” says Smith. “Space is limited due to the length of the season.”
During salmon season, fishing charters out of Ilwaco will run seven days a week with several long-established, professional charter operators. Please see https://funbeach.com/play/outside/catch-it/ for listings.
About the Port of Ilwaco
The Port of Ilwaco offers an 800-slip marina with guest moorage, competitive moorage rates, a back-in launch, two small boat hoists, two fuel docks, ample public parking, a three-bay indoor boatyard building, and free WIFI. During the summer, live bait is also available.
The marina waterfront offers a Pavilion, restaurants, lodging including the newly refurbished Salt Hotel, a marine supply store, gift shops, galleries, seafood markets, and a bookstore.
Numerous festivals and appealing activities greet visitors. Events include the colorful Saturday Market at the Port, Slow Drag at the Port, and the Blues and Seafood Festival. The Columbia Pacific Heritage Museum, a day spa, a post office, banks and more shops are within a short walk. An 8-5-mile paved trail starts in Ilwaco. The Lewis and Clark National and Historic Park, Cape Disappointment State Park, historic lighthouses, and more Long Beach Peninsula attractions are nearby.