5 Hour PM Salmon Fishing Trip - Edmonds, WA
Private Trip
Inshore Fishing
5-hour afternoon salmon fishing trip targeting Chinook and CohoAccommodates up to 4 guests with all gear provided aboard stable boatExpert captain guidance suitable for all experience levels in Puget Sound
Looking for a solid afternoon on the water chasing salmon? Captain Dan's 5-hour PM charter out of Edmonds Marina is exactly what you need. This isn't your typical rushed trip – you'll get a full afternoon of fishing the productive waters of Puget Sound, targeting both Chinook and Coho salmon when they're actively feeding. The later start time means you can sleep in or handle morning business, then head out when the bite often picks up in the afternoon hours. Captain Dan knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's built his reputation on putting guests on fish while keeping the whole experience relaxed and enjoyable.
You'll be fishing aboard Captain Dan's 30-foot Duckworth, a boat that's built for both stability and comfort on Puget Sound's sometimes choppy waters. The afternoon departure gives you plenty of time to settle in and get your bearings before the real action starts. Captain Dan runs a hands-on operation, meaning he's not just driving the boat – he's actively coaching you through techniques, helping with gear, and sharing the kind of local knowledge that only comes from years of fishing these waters. The boat comfortably handles up to 4 anglers, so you won't feel crowded, and there's enough space to move around when you hook into a strong Chinook. All your fishing gear is provided, from rods and reels to tackle and bait, so you can show up ready to fish without worrying about what to bring.
This inshore salmon charter focuses on proven trolling methods that consistently produce results in Puget Sound. Captain Dan sets up his guests with downriggers and divers, running spoons, herring, and plugs at the depths where salmon are actively feeding. The afternoon timing often coincides with increased bait activity, which gets the salmon moving and more aggressive. You'll learn how to work the gear properly, feel for strikes, and fight fish effectively without losing them at the boat. The captain adjusts his approach based on current conditions – tide changes, bait movements, and seasonal salmon behavior all factor into where and how you'll fish. The Duckworth's electronics help locate fish and structure, but Captain Dan's experience reading the water and understanding salmon patterns is what really makes the difference between an okay trip and a great one.
The waters around Edmonds Marina offer some of the most consistent salmon fishing in Puget Sound. Chinook salmon, the prized "Kings" of the Pacific, are the main target during peak season. These powerful fish typically range from 15 to 30 pounds in this area, with occasional larger specimens that will test your tackle and fighting skills. Chinook are known for their hard initial runs and deep fighting style – when you hook one, you'll know it immediately. They tend to feed more actively during tide changes, particularly in the late afternoon when baitfish become more concentrated. The meat quality is outstanding, with rich, flavorful fillets that are perfect for grilling or smoking. Coho salmon, or "Silver" salmon, provide non-stop action when they're in the area. These acrobatic fighters typically weigh 6 to 12 pounds and are famous for their aerial displays when hooked. Coho are often more aggressive than Chinook, striking lures with authority and providing fast-paced fishing that keeps everyone on the boat engaged. They school up more than Chinook, so when you find them, multiple hookups are common. Their firm, mild-flavored meat is excellent table fare and more delicate than Chinook.
Captain Dan's afternoon salmon trips offer the perfect balance of relaxed pacing and productive fishing. The 5-hour duration gives you enough time to really get into the rhythm of salmon fishing without feeling rushed, and the afternoon start works great for families or anyone who prefers later departures. You'll head back to Edmonds Marina with a solid understanding of how salmon fishing works in Puget Sound, plus hopefully some fresh fish for the dinner table. The combination of Captain Dan's local expertise, quality gear, and a comfortable boat makes this a top-rated choice for both first-time salmon anglers and experienced fishermen looking for a reliable charter. Don't wait too long to secure your spot – afternoon trips are popular, especially during peak salmon season when the bite is hot and the weather is cooperative.
Step aboard this rugged 30-foot Duckworth built to handle Puget Sound's waters with confidence. Twin Yamaha 350HP engines deliver the power needed to reach prime salmon fishing spots around Edmonds, while the aluminum hull cuts through choppy conditions with ease. The spacious deck comfortably accommodates up to 4 anglers without feeling cramped during those exciting moments when multiple lines are tight with fish. Modern electronics including GPS, radar, and fish finder help Captain Dan locate schools of Chinook and Coho moving through local waters. The wireless trolling motor allows for silent positioning when salmon are finicky, while the onboard refrigerator and icebox keep your catch fresh and drinks cold during the full 5-hour adventure. This boat's design prioritizes stability and functionality - exactly what serious salmon fishing demands on Puget Sound.
Oncorhynchus TshawytschaKing salmon are the largest Pacific salmon, running 15-30 pounds in Puget Sound with some pushing 40+ pounds. These silver-sided fish with black-spotted backs prefer deeper waters, usually 60-200 feet down where they feed on herring and anchovies. We target them year-round, but late summer through fall offers the best action as mature fish stage for spawning runs. Kings are prized for their powerful runs and head-shaking fights - they'll test your drag and make you work for every fish. The rich, orange-pink meat is top-shelf table fare. Local tip: watch your downrigger closely. Kings often hit soft, and you might miss the bite if you're not paying attention to subtle rod tip movements.
Oncorhynchus KisutchSilver salmon are pure athletes - 8-12 pounds of pure fight that'll jump clear out of the water and run hard. These acrobatic fish cruise shallower than kings, often 20-80 feet deep, especially around bait schools near structure. Summer through early fall is prime time when they're feeding aggressively before heading to spawn. Cohos are what get people hooked on salmon fishing - they hit hard, fight dirty, and never give up easy. Their bright orange meat tastes fantastic grilled or smoked. Here's a trick: when a coho jumps, resist the urge to lift your rod high. Keep steady pressure and let the fish work against the drag - trying to horse them usually ends with a thrown hook.
Edmonds, WA