Updates From the Water - November 2026
- Coho Salmon: We’re still finding a few nice, chrome-bright coho in the area. With the lack of rain and early signs of a strong coho run, there are still some fresh fish around and opportunities to get them in the boat.
- Chum Salmon: Chum salmon continue to show up consistently. Some days they can be a little more challenging to get to bite, but there are still plenty of opportunities to target them.
- Winter Chinook (King) Salmon: Winter king season is starting to heat up in the South Sound, with the first fish beginning to show up out of our Tacoma, WA marina.
- Tacoma Winter King Fishing Trips: Starting November 9th, we’ll have boats available seven days a week out of Tacoma through the end of April. If you’re looking to get out and target winter kings this season, now is a great time to start planning your trip!
- Squid Fishing: We also have limited opportunities to get out and chase squid with a few of our associate captains. These are smaller market squid, with a 10-pound daily limit. Squid can be caught throughout the day and night, so start times are fairly flexible. Feel free to reach out and inquire about available squid fishing trips!
Seattle Fishing in November: Coho, Chum, and Chinook Salmon Fishing
As we move deeper into fall, November brings cooler temperatures, changing weather, and a shift in our local fishing focus. The leaves might be falling, but fishing on Puget Sound is still heating up! This is the time of year when we transition from chasing migratory salmon to targeting our local winter Chinook — non-migratory king salmon that call the Sound home year-round.
Late-Season Coho and Chum Salmon Fishing
The first half of November often delivers the last chance to target late-season coho salmon. These silvers are still around in good numbers, and when conditions line up, the action can be great. Coho remain a great option before we fully move into our winter Chinook season.
November also marks the start of our chum salmon season. Chum salmon are incredible fighters and put on a great show once hooked. While they’re not as well-known for table fare as other salmon species, they’re still excellent eating when caught in the saltwater before they’ve transitioned to their mature freshwater colors. We typically target chum using both trolling and mooching techniques, each offering its own excitement and challenge.
Switching Gears to Winter Kings
As we move into the latter half of November, our attention turns to winter Chinook — also known as “blackmouth” or resident king salmon. These are non-migratory fish that spend their lives in Puget Sound. There’s always a sense of anticipation as we start the search for these kings, and when you connect with one, it’s always worth the effort.
Crab & Salmon Combo
Crabbing continues to be strong throughout November and the rest of the year. It’s a perfect time to get out on the water and gather some fresh Dungeness crab and salmon meat — ideal for a holiday dinner or stocking the freezer with some of the best seafood the Northwest has to offer.
There’s nothing better than combining a day of salmon fishing with pulling up a few limits of crab!
A Perfect Fall Adventure
November is a fantastic time to get outdoors between fall storms and before winter activities like skiing and snowboarding take over. Bundle up, grab a thermos of coffee, and head out for a day on the Puget Sound. Whether you’re chasing late-season salmon or hauling in crab pots, it’s a great time to experience the best of Seattle fishing.
Book Your November Fishing Trip in Seattle
If you’re looking to experience the best of Seattle fishing in November, now’s the time to get out there! Join us for a day of salmon fishing and crabbing.
Posted in: Seattle Fishing Reports
