Beach Fishing For Salmon: Gear And Methods
If you’re an angler who loves the thrill of fishing but doesn’t have access to a boat, don’t worry, beach fishing for salmon is a good way to catch some salmon and I will explain how and why! Some anglers also call this surf Fishing for salmon but they are basically the same thing.
You can still enjoy the excitement of catching Pacific salmon by beach fishing or surf fishing in beautiful British Columbia, and all along the Western Coastline from Northern California to Alaska.
This seasonal fishery is not only incredibly fun but also presents a challenge that will test your skills. By mastering the art of timing, honing your casting and retrieving techniques, and understanding the behavior of these giant migratory salmon, you can successfully bring home some fresh salmon from the shore.
There are also opportunities for beach fishing for salmon around the Great Lake Region.
Targeting Pacific Salmon from the Beach
Two species of Pacific salmon, pink salmon, and coho salmon, often swim close to the shore in the ocean. Some Chinook salmon will also roam close to shore while looking for their spawning rivers.
As they near the end of their adult phase in the ocean before entering spawning streams, these salmon aggressively feed along beaches where food is plentiful.
Their diet includes various prey such as herring, anchovy, needlefish, sandlance, stickleback, shrimp, and crab larvae.
Since they’re always hungry, enticing them with your lure or fly shouldn’t be a problem.
However, there are times when these fish seem uninterested in biting. In such cases, it’s crucial to determine what they are currently feeding on. With a wide range of prey available to them, matching your lure or fly to their preferred food source can make a significant difference in your success.
Choosing the Right Fishing Tackle
When it comes to beach fishing, there are two primary techniques: spincasting and fly fishing.
Unlike casting in a river, the key to beach fishing is achieving a good casting distance. It’s important to reach the schooling fish if you want to increase your chances of success. If the fish can’t see your lure, you’ll be unlikely to feel a tug on your line.
Since fish often feed far from the shore, you’ll need a setup that allows you to cast a considerable distance.
The Best Rod For Salmon Fishing From Shore
A fishing rod measuring at least 9 feet long is recommended for this purpose. You can opt for either a spinning or baitcasting rod, but make sure it has a rating of at least 8lb to 12lb test.
The rod should also be capable of casting lures weighing up to 1/2oz. While a longer rod is preferred by some, a 10-foot rod should suffice.
Remember, beach fishing involves repeated casting, and using an overly long rod can result in sore arms, especially if you haven’t caught any fish.
Best Fishing Reel For Beach Casting For Salmon
For your reel, choose a spinning or baitcasting reel with a spool capacity of at least 8lb test monofilament line. A size 3000 to 4000 is ideal since most fish you’ll encounter in this fishery range from 4 to 16lb.
When selecting a reel, ensure it is built to withstand saltwater conditions, and a good drag system will help you handle the strong runs of these fish.
Best Lines For Beach Fishing For Salmon
Thinner lines allow for longer casts but are more susceptible to being cut by rocks and debris. Thicker lines are more durable but can compromise your casting distance.
I use braided lines because they are ultra-thin yet still very strong. You can get a lot more braided line on a reel which is great for those extra-long runs.
Use A Landing Net
In most cases, a landing is necessary, as you can typically bring the fish into the shallow water and net it easier, identify it, and decide whether to keep it.
Lures For Salmon Fishing From Shore
Lures like spoons, spinners, and crankbaits are the best when beach fishing from shore. For the best distance, casting spoons are the best lure for beach fishing or shore fishing for salmon.
Popular lures for beach salmon fishing include Little Cleos, Buzz bombs, Zingers, and other saltwater jigging lures. Freshwater spoons like Gibbs Croc spoons are also effective.
Two great spoons that I use and like are the Eppinger Daredevil spoons and the Mepps Syclops Spoon.
Beach fishing lures need to be denser, slim yet heavy, and designed for long-distance casting.
When targeting pink salmon, color selection is not crucial. Pink, orange, chartreuse, or plain silver lures all work well. For coho salmon, lures that resemble small baitfish such as needlefish, sandlance, and stickleback are commonly used.
The weight of the lure affects your casting distance. Lures weighing 3/8oz or more can be cast quite far but also tend to sink rapidly and are more prone to getting snagged.
Additionally, consider the water depth when selecting your lure. Freshwater spinners are also popular choices for coho salmon, but you’ll need to add extra weights to achieve the required casting distance.
Typically, a fixed weight is tied to the end of the main line, followed by 2 to 3 feet of leader, which is then tied to the spinner.
Beach Fishing For Salmon With Fly Fishing
If you prefer fly fishing, a 7 or 8-weight fly fishing rod should be sufficient for beach salmon fishing. This size fly rod is heavy for Pinks, but it will help you get more distance and will be good should you encounter larger species like chinook salmon.
Your rod should be at least 9 feet long, and a fast action blank is preferable for achieving the necessary casting distance. Since the fishing depth is relatively shallow, a floating line will suffice.
A tapered leader measuring around 9 to 12 feet in length is commonly used, and the fly itself should be slightly weighted to gradually sink to the strike zone.
Effective beach salmon fishing flies mimic shrimp, crab larvae, minnows, sandlance, and needlefish. A streamer that resembles baitfish are great.
When fly fishing, strip your fly in a more rapid manner to simulate the darting and suspending movements of shrimp or baitfish.
Season and Timing Considerations
Timing is a crucial factor for successful beach salmon fishing. The ocean is vast, so the fish are usually scattered unless they are actively feeding in a particular area. You can begin searching for salmon on your local beaches a few weeks before they are expected to return to their natal streams.
Pink salmon can be found from late July to early September, while coho salmon are present along beaches in September and October. However, there are exceptions, such as the early runs of the Capilano River stock, which can be found along the beaches of West Vancouver in July and August.
Although early mornings are generally favorable for fishing, the tide plays a more significant role in determining the best time for your outing. Fish tend to become active near the shore during tidal changes.
Some locations yield excellent results during low tide, while others experience a surge of fish during high tide. Since every fishing spot is unique, the best way to find out is through experience and maintaining a fishing diary. Over time, you can develop patterns and identify the most productive times.
How To Tell If The Salmon Are Near The Beach
Be observant before and while you fish.
Before you make your first cast, take a moment to observe your surroundings. Step back and look for signs of fish in the water. They might be swimming close to the shore, and it’s essential not to spook them by wading too close.
Pink salmon often reveal their dorsal fins above the water, while baitfish leaping out of the water indicates that salmon are feeding beneath the surface.
Keep in mind that an abundance of jumping fish doesn’t guarantee a successful fishing trip. Staging fish near the estuary tends to jump frequently as they gather in a confined area.
These fish have likely encountered various lures in the past, so they may be more cautious.
Techniques For Beach Fishing For Salmon
Casting straight out and reeling in is the basics, however, casting straight out, and taking 5 to 10 steps down the beach to cover the water is a good way of covering more water.
However, since the salmon are moving and swimming along the shoreline, standing and casting in the same area also works.
I have found that moving slowly and exploring while covering water has helped me locate more salmon.
The Cast And Retrieve
Once you’ve cast out your lure, start retrieving it immediately to keep it from sinking to the bottom.
The retrieval speed is generally faster than what you would use in a river. These salmon are aggressive feeders and won’t hesitate to chase down their prey. Regularly twitch and rip and pause the lure to add more action to the lure. I discuss the effectiveness of this in my articles:
If you’re using a jigging-style lure, lift and drop the rod repeatedly while retrieving. Some angler call this twitching jigs. Maintain tension on your line even on the drop so you can detect a bite, and be ready to strike as soon as you feel a bite.
It’s advisable to wear a pair of waders when beach fishing, as you’ll often need to walk out from the shore to reach deeper spots. However, always be vigilant and watch for large waves approaching the shore to avoid any unexpected surprises. Surf fishing with waders can be risky.
If you decide to venture out to an exposed sandbar during low tide, be mindful of the tide level to ensure you don’t get stranded. Even though the water may appear shallow and calm, the current can be deceptively strong.
Promising Fishing Locations
Beach salmon fishing can be enjoyed near various towns along the East Coast of Vancouver Island, such as Port Hardy, Port McNeil, Campbell River, and Qualicum Beach. On the Sunshine Coast, you’ll find opportunities between Sechelt and Gibson.
There are also numerous locations around Vancouver where this fishery is available. Popular spots include Furry Creek in Howe Sound, Ambleside Beach in West Vancouver, and Cates Park in Deep Cove.
Productive beaches are often found near streams where salmon are expected to return for spawning.
Lastly, before you participate in this fishery, make sure you have a valid saltwater fishing license and a salmon conservation stamp. Familiarize yourself with the regulations of the area you plan to fish in, including any gear restrictions and daily retention limits for salmon.
Beach Fishing For Salmon Q&A
Beach fishing for salmon on the west coast and great lakes region provides an exciting and challenging angling experience for those who may not have access to a boat.
With the right techniques, tackle, and timing, you can successfully target pink salmon and coho salmon from the shore.
Remember to choose the appropriate fishing gear, including a long and versatile rod, a reel with sufficient line capacity, and effective lures or flies that mimic the salmon’s preferred prey. Pay attention to the season and timing, as well as the behaviors and feeding patterns of the fish.
By being observant and employing the right techniques, you’ll increase your chances of a successful catch. Lastly, make sure to fish responsibly by adhering to local regulations and conservation practices.
If you have a question or any advice let us know in the comments section below.
Tight Lines
Graham
