Skokomish River Fishing Guide: Chinook, Chum, and Hood Canal Flows

The Skokomish River is a major South Hood Canal river in Mason County, flowing through the Skokomish Valley and into Puget Sound. Managed heavily by the Skokomish Tribe, this river is renowned for its large and predictable runs of Chinook and Chum salmon. Due to its unique flow characteristics, monitoring the latest Washington river flow data is crucial, especially when planning to fish the fast-moving lower sections.

River History and Diversion

The Skokomish River’s flows are heavily regulated by the Cushman Dam No. 1 and No. 2, operated by Tacoma Power. These dams divert much of the North Fork’s historical flow into Hood Canal for power generation, significantly impacting the river’s overall water volume. The remaining mainstem river, below the dams, relies heavily on natural tributaries and runoff.

The river below the diversion is managed by the Skokomish Tribe, who control most of the access points and set many of the fishing regulations. As such, the river operates under complex rules that differ significantly between tribal and non-tribal anglers.

Location and Access

The main fishing corridor of the Skokomish River is the section that flows through the Skokomish Valley near Shelton. Access for non-tribal anglers is highly limited due to tribal land ownership along the best fishing stretches. The most popular public access points are typically found near the mouth of the river at Hood Canal and limited areas around bridge crossings. Most fishing pressure is concentrated in the lower river sections where the hatchery fish return.

Primary Species and Seasonal Runs (Salmon & Steelhead)

The Skokomish River is one of the most reliable salmon destinations in the entire Hood Canal area, supported by a strong hatchery program focused on Chinook and Chum.

Fish Run Timing:

• Fall Chinook Salmon: This is a major, predictable run, with fish beginning to stage in Hood Canal in late July. They enter the river from August through October. The run is targeted heavily in the lower river using various methods.
• Chum Salmon: The Chum run is massive and arguably the most dependable fishery of the late season. Fish arrive in large numbers in October and the run peaks aggressively through November and December. The river’s flow and slow nature make twitching jigs and heavy gear highly effective.
• Coho Salmon: A strong run of Coho provides good sport fishing from September through November. These fish are often found pushing hard in the main river channel.
• Winter Steelhead: The river supports a reliable Winter Steelhead run, with the peak season running from December through March. Steelhead are targeted in the holding pools and runs of the accessible lower river.

Regulations and Conservation

Fishing on the Skokomish River is unique due to tribal jurisdiction. The Skokomish Tribe sets the rules, which are generally enforced on the mainstem by tribal police. Non-tribal fishing is restricted to WDFW-designated areas, usually tidal or estuary waters, which are open only during specific seasons and with restrictive gear.

It is absolutely essential that anglers consult the rules for the Skokomish River published by both WDFW and the Skokomish Tribe, as trespassing and fishing in closed zones are heavily penalized. 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.