Hi folks,
The last five days have been tough out here. Gray skies, driving rain, and steady 4- to 6-foot seas with winds pushing 20 to 35 knots. It’s made for some challenging fishing. When the weather’s like this, maneuvering the boat in this gear takes everything we’ve got.
We’ve just wrapped a 42-hour stretch with maybe four hours of sleep scattered in. It’s been a grind. The crew is tired, no doubt, but morale is still high and we’re making the most of it. Catches are coming along nicely.
We’re about halfway through the sockeye run here in the Nushagak District. The run is about three days early this year, which means the peak is hitting right now. Our group made the call to split up. Half is heading to Naknek, the other half staying here. I’ve decided to stay put. Sitting out a 48-hour transfer during peak season isn’t an option.
The forecast is finally shifting. Seas should settle in the next couple of days, which the crew will welcome. Although, calmer weather doesn’t always mean better fishing…
Overall, the season’s been strong. We’re seeing lots of big, healthy sockeye over five pounds. They’ll make beautiful fillets. The boat’s running well. Just a few hiccups, but nothing we haven’t handled.
Time for a quick nap before the next tide. We’ll keep you posted as the run continues.
Steve
Captain & Co-Founder, Wild for Salmon
