Satsop River Fishing Guide: Fall Salmon, Winter Steelhead, and Chehalis Flows

The Satsop River is a major tributary of the Chehalis River located in Grays Harbor County, on the Olympic Peninsula. Known for its distinct East and West Forks, the Satsop is a classic rain-fed river that is vital to the Chehalis basin’s anadromous fish runs. Since its flow is highly dependent on seasonal rainfall, monitoring the latest Washington river flow data is extremely important for predicting optimal fishing conditions and ensuring safety during winter spikes.

River History and Character

The Satsop River flows through a heavily forested, rain-drenched watershed. Unlike its regulated neighbor, the Wynoochee, the Satsop is largely free-flowing, giving it a natural and unpredictable flow regime. During the fall and winter, the river can rise and fall dramatically after heavy rains, which often dictates the timing of successful salmon and steelhead fishing efforts. The East and West Forks combine in the lower valley before joining the Chehalis River near Elma.

The Satsop Springs Hatchery, located on a tributary of the West Fork, is a significant part of the river’s fishery management, supporting reliable returns of Coho and Steelhead.

Location and Access

Access to the Satsop River is available at various public sites, particularly along the lower mainstem and near the confluence with the Chehalis River. Popular spots include bridge crossings and boat launches near Elma. Anglers need to be familiar with the regulations regarding fishing on the East vs. West Forks, as rules and open seasons often differ between the two branches.

Primary Species and Seasonal Runs (Salmon & Steelhead)

The Satsop River offers some of the best fall and winter fishing in the region, known particularly for its abundant Coho and hard-fighting Winter Steelhead.

Fish Run Timing:

• Fall Chinook Salmon: A strong run of Chinook begins entering the river in late summer. Fishing is best throughout September and October, often concentrated in the lower river and near the mouth of the West Fork.
• Coho Salmon: The Coho run is excellent and is the most reliable salmon fishery on the Satsop. Fish enter the river in force in September, with the peak season lasting through November. Anglers frequently use twitching jigs, float-fishing, and plugs.
• Chum Salmon: A solid run of Chum provides excellent late-fall action, typically peaking from October through December.
• Winter Steelhead: The key species of the cold months. The strong Winter Steelhead run begins in November and peaks from December through January. Both the East and West Forks offer prime habitat for pursuing these challenging fish.

Regulations and Conservation

The Satsop River is managed by WDFW in co-management with local tribes. Due to the mix of hatchery and wild stocks, regulations frequently change, dictating where and when anglers can fish. Gear restrictions are common, and selective gear rules often apply to protect sensitive wild salmon and steelhead populations.

Anglers should be prepared for changing water conditions and must carefully verify all rules before fishing the river’s forks. 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.