Nooksack River Fishing Guide: Chum Salmon, Steelhead, and Northwest Cascade Flows

The Nooksack River is a stunning, glacier-fed waterway in Whatcom County that flows from Mount Baker and empties into Bellingham Bay. It is a critical North Sound river that supports important runs of all five Pacific salmon species, with a particular reputation for its excellent Chum Salmon and Winter Steelhead fisheries. Monitoring the latest Washington river flow data is essential, as the Nooksack is prone to rapid flow fluctuations and extreme winter conditions.

River History and Watershed

The Nooksack River has three forks (North, Middle, and South) that drain the steep western slopes of the North Cascades. The flow is dominated by heavy rainfall and seasonal glacial melt, giving the river its characteristic cold, powerful, and often turbid water. This natural flow regime contrasts sharply with the dam-controlled rivers in the South Sound. The river is culturally significant and co-managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Nooksack and Lummi Tribes.

Conservation is a major focus, as the wild runs of some species, particularly Chinook, are listed as threatened under the Endangered Species Act.

Location and Access

The main stem of the Nooksack is where most of the fishing activity occurs, particularly the lower sections downstream of Deming. Access is generally good along public roadways and bridge crossings. The turbulent nature of the river requires caution, especially for bank anglers during high flows. The North Fork, which receives the heaviest glacial melt, is a popular destination for scenic views and is a major spawning tributary.

Primary Species and Seasonal Runs (Salmon & Steelhead)

The Nooksack River is a challenging but rewarding fishery, known for the high quality and strength of its returning fish.

Fish Run Timing:

• Fall Chinook Salmon: While historically massive, the Chinook run is now heavily protected. Fishing for Chinook is generally closed or highly restricted, occurring mainly in the lower river in August and September.
• Pink Salmon (Humpies): A large return of Pink Salmon occurs exclusively on odd-numbered years (e.g., 2025, 2027). The abundance of Pinks provides a brief, intense fishery through August and September.
• Coho Salmon: A strong run of Coho provides good sport fishing from September through November. Anglers target these fish in the lower and middle river sections.
• Chum Salmon: The most significant run in terms of volume and opportunity. Chum begin pushing into the river in October and the run peaks aggressively through November and December. This is a prime time for jig fishing and heavy gear.
• Winter Steelhead: The river maintains a substantial Winter Steelhead run, offering excellent fishing from December through March. Anglers typically use traditional methods like drift fishing and float fishing in the mid-river runs and pools.

Regulations and Conservation

Due to the critical status of wild Chinook and the co-management structure, regulations on the Nooksack are complex and frequently restrictive. Anglers must check the regulations for specific section closures and gear restrictions, which often include mandatory barbless hooks and selective gear rules. Penalties for violating regulations are severe.

For the most current rules, seasons, and any emergency closures, always check the official resources from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).

WDFW Fishing Rules: Consult the latest WDFW Fishing Regulations.