Spawn Blog

In the pursuit of uncovering the mysteries of Willapa Bay's elusive cutthroat trout, our journey leads us to yet another destination. With each expedition, we inch closer to unraveling the secrets that lie beneath the murky depths, guided by our unwavering passion for exploration.

This week, our sights were set on where the Bear River meets Willapa Bay in marine waters. This area holds promise of discovery beckoned amidst the challenging terrain. As we navigated through treacherous mud and deep holes, caution served as our steadfast companion, reminding us of the inherent risks of our endeavor.

Arriving at the water's edge, anticipation hung heavy in the air, fueled by the presence of chum fry swirling beneath the surface. It seemed a sure sign that success with coming.

Yet, despite our best efforts and the tantalizing allure of the chum fry, the elusive cutthroat remained elusive. Not a single strike, follow, or glimpse of this amazing fish. Instead, the river teemed with life—otters playing, eagles soaring, and the presence of what we suspect were sturgeon lurking in the depths.

Undeterred by this setback, we refuse to succumb to disillusionment. For coastal cutthroat, uncertainty reigns supreme, and the only constant is change itself. We fished the entire outgoing tide but as we have preached for years, this means nothing more than a check mark on a box. We spent years of trail and error on Puget Sound before we cracked the code and many days were spent just like this one. 

With each passing season, each shifting tide, we approach the bay with renewed determination, knowing that success lies not in immediate gratification, but in the patient pursuit of understanding. We will return to this spot, armed with the lessons of this trip, ready to confront the ever-changing tides, time or year, weather etc. 

It is not merely the thrill of the catch that drives us, but the journey itself—the unending quest for knowledge, the communion with nature, and the unwavering belief that with time and perseverance, we will unlock the secrets of Willapa Bay's elusive cutthroat.

So, as we press onward, fueled by hope and fueled by passion, we invite you to join us on this odyssey of discovery—a journey where every cast brings us one step closer to unraveling the mysteries that lie beneath the surface of Willapa Bay. 

Until next time, tight lines and happy hunting.

Conditions:

Cloudy 54 Degrees

Water Clarity - Good

Tide - Outgoing 

Date - April 2nd 2024

Time of Day 9am-1:15pm 

Chum Fry - Present 

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Nestled along the Pacific Northwest coast lies Willapa Bay, a place shrouded in mystery and teeming with life. For four years, we have called the city of Ilwaco home, surrounded by the allure of the bay's secrets. Among these mysteries is the elusive coastal cutthroat trout, rumored to inhabit these waters, yet their presence remains an enigma.

In our time here, we've become very acquainted with the freshwater realms where cutthroat thrive, debunking the misconception that they completely vanish during certain seasons. Sure some times of year are better than others but they persist year-round, a testament to their resilience and adaptability. In saying that we do know that they go in and out of the salt.  We have the tide water game figured out in the rivers but when it comes to Willapa Bay we dont know where they go. As April dawns upon us, the rivers surge with life as cutthroat feast on the abundance of chum fry, painting a breathtaking spectacle of nature's cycle.

However, as much as we long to delve into the vastness of Willapa Bay, its complexities pose a formidable challenge. Shallow waters, treacherous obstacles, and erratic weather patterns deter even the most seasoned explorers. Yet, we are undeterred in our quest to unravel the mysteries that lie beyond the river's edge.

Our current strategy hinges on the chum fry, a beacon guiding us into uncharted territory. We hypothesize that where the fry roam, the cutthroat shall follow. It's a theory rooted in the understanding of nature's interconnectedness, where prey leads predators to their domain. It is also something we have witnessed time after time in Puget Sound.

This past weekend, we scoured the northern reaches of Long Island, where chum fry dance in abundance, tantalizing our senses with the promise of discovery. We fished almost the entire outgoing tide with crystal clear water. Yet, despite our vigilance, the elusive cutthroat elude our grasp, leaving us to ponder their whereabouts.

Perhaps it's premature, our timing misaligned with nature's rhythm as cutthroat linger in the rivers, savoring the remnants of the chum fry buffet. Or perhaps, there are intricacies yet to be unveiled, secrets hidden beneath the murky depths of Willapa Bay.

Nonetheless, our resolve remains unshaken. Armed with patience and perseverance, we continue our pursuit, determined to crack the code that eludes us. Different times of year, tides, weather will all be checked.  Each expedition brings us closer to unraveling the mysteries of Willapa Bay and forging a deeper connection with its inhabitants.

As we follow the chum fry, we embark on a journey of discovery. In the heart of Willapa Bay, where mysteries abound and adventure awaits, we stand ready to unlock the secrets that lie beneath the surface. Be sure to tune into this blog to see what we uncover.

Conditions:

Sunny 60 Degrees

Water Clarity - Crystal Clear 

Tide - High Outgoing 

Date - March 24, 2024

Time of Day 12:30-5:15pm 

Chum Fry - Present 

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At Spawn Fly Fish, we're passionate about providing anglers with the highest quality gear to enhance their fishing experience. That's why we're thrilled to announce that we are now the premier online fly shop for ALL your Ahrex hooks needs!

Ahrex hooks have earned a reputation for excellence in the fishing industry, and for good reason. Their commitment to precision engineering, innovative designs, and unparalleled durability makes them a favorite among anglers worldwide. And here at Spawn Fly Fish, we share that passion for Ahrex hooks wholeheartedly.

From the moment we started our journey, Ahrex hooks have been more than just a product to us; they've become trusted companions on our fishing adventures and one of our closest friends. Their reliability and performance have consistently exceeded our expectations, which is why we're proud to offer the complete range of Ahrex hooks for every single species.

Whether you're targeting trout with dry flies and nymphs, chasing big saltwater predators, or pursuing classic salmon, we have the perfect Ahrex hook for you. And as of today, you can explore our extensive selection of Ahrex hooks online, with hundreds of options available at your fingertips.

But why stop at browsing online when you can experience the quality of Ahrex hooks firsthand? We invite you to visit our store and see these exceptional hooks in person. Our knowledgeable team is here to assist you and ensure you find the perfect hook for your fishing needs.

At Spawn Fly Fish, we believe that the right gear can make all the difference on the water. That's why we stand behind Ahrex hooks wholeheartedly and are confident that once you try them, you'll love them just as much as we do.

So whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, trust Spawn Fly Fish to provide you with the finest Ahrex hooks for your next fishing adventure. Shop online or visit us in-store today and experience the difference for yourself!

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Welcome back to the blog, where we dive deep into the hatch and all things fly fishing! Chum fry season is upon us, offering a thrilling time for anglers in Western Washington. We got out this week and put to work countless flies and found so much success. As the cutthroat eagerly strike, it's a prime moment to simplify our approach and focus on what truly matters in this fishery.

We tie some intricate Chum Fry Patterns that are showcased on YouTube that everyone should have in there box. However, if you can't tie or your limited in what you can tie, the truth is, success often lies in simplicity. Here are several patterns that may not be specifically designed for chum fry but will certainly get the job done throughout the season:

1. Spawn Simi Seal Leech: This fly embodies simplicity at its best. Crafted solely from Spawn Simi Seal, it's a breeze to tie and incredibly effective. Whether you're new to tying or a seasoned pro, this pattern is a must-have. Colors we recommend - Spawn Simi Seal Chum Fry, Polychaete, Salmon Smolt!

1. Carey Special (Peacock Variant): Keeping it simple and highlighting a fly with a long history, the Carey Special in Peacock is a winner. Strip it fast, and you'll find the cutthroat eagerly adding it to their menu of chum fry. 

2. Soccer Mom (Thin Mint Variant): Rio's Soccer Mom pattern, especially in Thin Mint, proves its worth in SW Washington waters. Its simplicity belies its effectiveness, making it a valuable addition to your chum fry lineup. For the soccer mom we only recommend the Thin Mint color way for matching this hatch. All the other color ways are fantastic but are needed at different times. 

3. Woolly Bugger Variant (Olive with Black): As simple as it gets, the Woolly Bugger in olive with black is a timeless classic. This is one simple pattern that many of us know. This week we used the Stable Bugger (simple variant of a bugger) and it was frankly on fire. Opt for sizes 10 or 8 and strip it fast for irresistible action that the fish won't be able to resist. 

Chum fry season presents an incredible opportunity for anglers, and you don't need to be a master tier to capitalize on it. Whether you lack the time or skills to tie intricate patterns, rest assured that these simple yet effective solutions are readily available at Spawn or for you to create yourself. For those of you eager for a challenge view and replicate some of our chum fry patterns on YouTube or create your own winners. No matter your preference get outside and fish!

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Calling all anglers in the greater Ilwaco area – it's go time! The latest Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) stocking report has just been released, and the news is nothing short of thrilling for fishing enthusiasts. With three local lakes receiving hefty stockings on March 18th, there's never been a better time to cast your line. 

Let's dive into the details:

1. Black Lake: Located right here in Ilwaco, Black Lake has received a generous stocking of 1,500 rainbow trout. These vibrant fish are sure to provide plenty of action for anglers of all skill levels. Black Lake is the perfect spot to spend a day on the water but also is right in our backyard, if you have an hour to kill, spending it on our of our local docks at Black Lake is well worth your time. 

2. Snag Lake: Prepare to be impressed – Snag Lake, a very small and shallow lake has been stocked with a whopping 750 rainbow trout. This picturesque lake offers anglers the chance to reel in some truly impressive catches. Whether you're casting from the shore or paddling out on a kayak, Snag Lake promises an unforgettable fishing experience. Remember it's called snag lake for a reason, bring extra gear as you may end up snagged on one of the submerged logs! 

3. Western Lake: Another local favorite, Western Lake, has also received a bountiful stocking of 750 rainbow trout. Nestled amidst stunning natural scenery, this lake provides the perfect backdrop for a day of angling adventure. With its clear waters and abundant fish population, Western Lake is a must-visit destination for any fishing enthusiast. Western Lake and Snag lake are within minutes from one another as well making it possible to fish two locations on one trip!

While casting from the shore can be rewarding, we recommend bringing along a kayak or other watercraft for the best chance of success. With so many eager trout waiting to be caught, you'll want to explore every corner of these local lakes.

Excitement is already brewing, with reports of non-stop action from eager anglers who wasted no time hitting the water. Don't let this opportunity pass you by – grab your gear, head outdoors, and make the most of this amazing local fishing opportunity!

Come see us in the shop for all the helpful advice and tips we can provide!

Dont have the gear but want an opportunity to get out on the water. There is one local guide that we know who spends a ton of time on the water locally and would be happy to take you out for an afternoon, morning or day fishing these lakes! 

Link for contact: www.thecoastalfly.com 

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