The Outdoor Report: Spring Chinook Bite Shifts to Spinners

BELLINGHAM, Wash. — Spring Chinook season is now fully underway across Washington as Yeager’s Sporting Goods celebrates its best Ski to Sea finish in years.

This Outdoor Report is sponsored by Yeager’s Sporting Goods, located at 3101 Northwest Avenue in Bellingham.

After a couple of weeks of anglers relying almost exclusively on cured eggs and subtle presentations during low, clear conditions, the evening bite has accelerated and aggressive spinner fishing has taken over in many stretches of river.

Guides and anglers across the region report bright hardware, especially larger profile spinners worked through softer tailouts and walking-speed current, has become increasingly productive as water temperatures continue to climb heading into Memorial Day week.

Blue Fox Vibrax spinners are now outperforming hoochie spinners and Flyin’ C’s on many stretches of river, with hot orange and chartreuse patterns producing the most consistent bites.

The change comes as effort continues increasing statewide during one of Washington’s busiest spring salmon seasons in years. While Northwest Washington anglers have focused heavily on the reopening of the Nooksack spring Chinook fishery, salmon opportunities also remain active on the Columbia system, Cowlitz, Kalama and Lewis rivers.

Evening Bite Improving

On the Northwest Washington rivers, anglers who struggled through slow mid-day conditions earlier this month have recently seen improved success during late afternoon and evening windows.

The stronger spinner bite appears tied to slightly warmer water temperatures and more aggressive fish movement, especially during low-light periods.

On the Nooksack, anglers continue targeting hatchery spring Chinook under emergency regulations that reopened portions of the river for the first time in years. Bank access remains crowded during peak periods, although many experienced anglers have shifted toward evening sessions to avoid heavy morning pressure.

Look for bonus days on the Columbia River via emergency rules, but don’t forget your gear as you pass amazing rivers such as the Klickitat that offer some amazing spots for fly anglers to hook a spring chinook. Again, double check regulations as some of these fisheries are open for few day stretches as numbers are updated.

Ski to Sea Teams Wrap Up Strong Performances

The annual Ski to Sea race once again highlighted the strong connection between Northwest Washington’s outdoor recreation community and local sporting businesses.

Pacific North Sports captured the 53rd annual Ski to Sea race on May 24, 2026, finishing with an overall time of 5 hours, 50 minutes and 15.6 seconds. MARR’S Heating, AC, Plumbing/Electrical finished just 30 seconds behind in second place.

Yeager’s Sporting Goods also posted a strong finish, placing fifth overall with a total time of 6 hours, 1 minute and 36.4 seconds. Yeager’s continues playing a major role in the race each year by helping provide kayaks, outdoor gear and further support for teams and participants and the events.

“We will be back, even faster next year. Stay tuned,” Yeager’s promised following the event.

1. Pacific North Sports  ·  5:50:15.6
2. MARR’S Heating, AC, Plumbing/Electrical  ·  5:50:45.3
3. Boomer’s Drive-In  ·  5:58:31.4
4. Nelson’s Market  ·  6:01:26.6
5. Yeager’s Sporting Goods  ·  6:01:36.4

This Outdoor Report is sponsored by Yeager’s Sporting Goods, located at 3101 Northwest Avenue in Bellingham.

Lake Fazon Kids Derby Coming Up

Families and young anglers now turn their attention toward one of Whatcom County’s longest-running youth fishing events.

The Borderline Bassin’ Contenders will host the 41st Annual Free Kids Bluegill Fishing Derby at Lake Fazon on June 20 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with registration opening at 10 a.m.

The event includes prizes across multiple youth age groups, along with awards for the longest and smallest bluegill caught during the derby. All registered kids will receive tackle packs and snacks.

Organizers will also hold a raffle featuring a $500 Yeager’s Sporting Goods gift card, with proceeds helping fund the 2027 derby event.

A boat is recommended because of limited shoreline access, although organizers noted buckets will be available and boating safety rules must be followed throughout the event.

The derby has become a longtime community tradition focused on introducing kids to fishing and outdoor recreation in Northwest Washington.

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