12 FEB 2025 · Hello there, fellow anglers, this is Artificial Lure, and I'm here to give you the lowdown on the fishing scene in and around Bristol Bay, Alaska, as of today, February 12, 2025.
First off, let's talk about the tides. For today at Port Moller, Bristol Bay, you can expect a low tide of about 5.4 feet at 12:02 PM, followed by a high tide of 10.1 feet at 5:10 PM. These tidal changes can significantly impact fish movement, so plan your fishing trips accordingly.
Weather-wise, February in Bristol Bay is typically cold and icy, with temperatures often below freezing. Today is no exception, so make sure you're well-prepared with warm gear and possibly ice fishing equipment if you're venturing out onto the frozen waters. Sunrise today is at 9:23 AM, and sunset is at 6:29 PM, giving you a decent window for daylight fishing.
Now, let's dive into the fish activity. While it's still early in the year, the preseason forecasts for the 2025 Bristol Bay sockeye salmon run are promising. The Alaska Department of Fish and Game is predicting a total run of approximately 49.6 million sockeye salmon, which is 18% below the 10-year average but nearly equal to the 20-year average. This bodes well for the upcoming fishing season, especially for sockeye salmon enthusiasts.
For those looking to catch other species, Bristol Bay is renowned for its abundance of all five salmon species: sockeye, chum, silver (coho), king (chinook), and pink salmon. Additionally, you can find rainbow trout, arctic char, grayling, and Dolly Varden in the area's rivers. Given the current time of year, it's a bit early for the peak salmon runs, but if you're targeting other species like rainbow trout or arctic char, now is a good time.
For these fish, consider using lures like small streamers, nymphs, or even dry flies. If you're bait fishing, try using small jigs tipped with bait like maggots or tiny pieces of salmon roe. These lures mimic the natural prey and are more likely to attract fish in the cold waters.
As for hot spots, the Nushagak River and Kvichak River watersheds are always top picks. These rivers are known for their prolific sockeye runs and are accessible through various Alaska fishing lodges. Another great spot is the Egegik River, which is also a key location for sockeye salmon. The Wood River Drainage is another area worth mentioning, especially for rainbow trout, though be sure to check the specific regulations for this area.
In summary, while the peak fishing season is still a few months away, the forecasts look promising, and there are still plenty of fish to be caught in the area. Just make sure to bundle up and be prepared for the cold, and don't hesitate to reach out to local guides or fishing lodges for the best advice on where and how to fish.
Tight lines, and see you on the water