Spawn Blog

In the world of angling, especially fly fishing, the debate between barbless and barbed hooks is a conversation that frequently surfaces among seasoned anglers and novices alike. Each type of hook comes with its own set of pros and cons, sparking an ongoing discussion within the fishing community. While barbed hooks have long been a staple, the rising popularity of barbless hooks, particularly in the realm of catch-and-release, is shifting the tide.

Barbed Hooks: The Traditional Choice

For many years, barbed hooks have been the default option for anglers. These hooks feature a small, backward-facing projection known as the barb, strategically positioned just behind the hook's point. The barb's purpose is to make it more challenging for fish to free themselves once hooked, essentially locking the fish in place. Landing a fish with a barbed hook is often a straightforward affair.

The Pros of Barbed Hooks:

1. Secure Hookups: Barbed hooks are renowned for their ability to firmly secure a fish, reducing the chances of them shaking the hook free.
2. Versatility: These hooks can be employed in a wide variety of fishing methods and environmental conditions, and they come in different sizes to cater to different fish species.
3. Beginner-Friendly: Barbed hooks offer a higher probability of hooking and landing fish, making them a suitable choice for beginners.

The Cons of Barbed Hooks:

1. Harm to Fish: Barbed hooks have the potential to cause more harm to fish, even when practicing catch-and-release. Fish may not survive, despite swimming away after release.
2. Regulations: In many fishing areas, especially those with endangered species, regulations restrict or prohibit the use of barbed hooks to protect fish populations.
3. Risk to Anglers: Handling fish with barbed hooks can pose a higher risk of injury, as these hooks are more challenging to remove. Many anglers have experienced the pain of a barbed hook piercing their skin.

Barbless Hooks: A Rising Trend

Barbless hooks have gained favor, particularly among anglers who prioritize ethical catch-and-release fishing. These hooks either lack the barb or have a significantly reduced one, making them easier to remove from a fish's mouth.

During a recent chum salmon fishing excursion, we encountered a remarkable sight. A large fish broke the line, taking a pink fly with it. After a series of headshakes, removed the barbless hook while we watched, allowing the fly to float freely to the bottom. It was a testament to how fish can swiftly rid themselves of these minimally intrusive hooks.

The Pros of Barbless Hooks:

1. Ethical Catch-and-Release: Barbless hooks cause less harm to fish, making them a more ethical choice for catch-and-release fishing.
2. Compliance: In regions with regulations against barbed hooks, using barbless hooks is often the only legal option.
3. Easier Hook Removal: Barbless hooks are simpler to extract from both fish and anglers, reducing the risk of injury.

The Cons of Barbless Hooks:

1. Reduced Hooking Efficiency: Barbless hooks may result in more lost fish due to their decreased holding power, especially during fish jumps or headshakes.
2. Greater Skill Required: Anglers may need more finesse and skill to maintain a solid hookset with barbless hooks.
3. Potential for Premature Releases: Fish can come unhooked more easily, leading to unintended releases and shortened fishing stories.

Ultimately, the choice between barbless and barbed hooks comes down to your personal preferences, adherence to local regulations, and the type of fishing you enjoy. Barbless hooks are increasingly favored by anglers who prioritize catch-and-release practices and want to reduce harm to fish. Conversely, barbed hooks may be more suitable if your goal is to secure a catch for consumption, or if you're fishing in an area where barbed hooks are permitted.

Regardless of your choice, responsible angling is paramount. Always be aware of local fishing regulations, handle fish with care, and aim to minimize any harm to these magnificent creatures. Whether you're a fan of barbless or barbed hooks, the love of the sport and respect for nature unite us all as anglers.

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The thrill of salmon fishing is in the air for fly anglers as chum salmon have officially made their way to the waters of Southwest Washington. This is the moment some anglers including ourselves have been waiting for, and if you're itching for some heart-pounding action, now's the time to grab your gear and head out to the rivers.

When it comes to chum salmon, it's all about the fight. These powerful fish are known for their incredible strength and ferocity, making every hookset an adrenaline-pumping experience. To tackle these mighty fish, we highly recommended to use an 8wt or larger fly rod. The heavier weight will give you the necessary backbone to handle these muscular fish without breaking a sweat.

Chum salmon can be picky and today on the water was a testament to that. So far, pink and chartreuse flies have been the ticket to success. These vibrant, eye-catching colors seem to trigger a strong reaction from the chum, making them irresistible. The flies that got in done were all about 1-2 inches in length. Sparse flies we've historically loved were simply not getting the job done. Having a selection of flies in these colors can significantly boost your chances of a successful day on the water.

The increased water flow and cooler temperatures this week have enticed more chum salmon into the system. It's a promising sign for a fantastic season ahead. With more rain on the horizon early this week, we can expect even more chum salmon to make their way into the rivers, offering you more opportunities to hook into these remarkable fish.

Fishing for chum salmon is an experience unlike any other. Their aggressive strikes, powerful runs, and sheer determination make them a formidable opponent. If you haven't yet had the chance to tangle with chum, now is the perfect time to get out there and give it a try. You won't be disappointed!

Whether you're a seasoned angler or someone looking to try something new, don't miss out on the opportunity to reel in these hard-fighting chum salmon. Get out there, cast your pink and chartreuse flies, and let the adventure begin.

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 While we are on the topic of tides we figured it's important to not only understand the terminology but also understand how to utilize the charts and terminology you now know. Tides are a fascinating natural phenomenon, and understanding tide charts is essential for various activities near the coast, such as fishing, boating, and even beach combing. Reading a tide chart may seem complex at first, but with a little guidance, it can become a straightforward skill. 

Before we dive into reading tide charts, let's grasp the fundamental concepts behind tides. Tides are the rising and falling of sea levels caused by the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun. There are two high tides and two low tides in a 24-hour period. The varying heights of these tides create the tidal range.

A simple tide chart provides essential information to predict the timing and height of high and low tides. Let's break down the key components of a tide chart:

1. Date and Time: Tide charts display a specific date and time range, usually covering a month or more. The times are typically in 24-hour format (e.g., 02:00, 14:30).

2. Tide Height: The chart will show the predicted water levels for high and low tides. This is measured in feet or meters, depending on your location.

3. Tide Table: A table or grid format that displays the tide heights for specific times and dates. It's organized with rows representing days and columns for hours.

4. Tidal Range: This is the difference in height between high and low tides, often shown as a single number or represented graphically on the chart.

Reading a Tide Chart

Now that you're familiar with the components, let's learn how to read a tide chart:

1. Choose Your Location: Find a tide chart for the specific location you are interested in. Tide charts are usually available online, in printed publications, or through local agencies. Make sure to select the right chart for your area, as tidal patterns can vary significantly from one place to another.

2. Locate the Date: Look for the date range you are interested in. Most tide charts are organized by month, making it easy to find the relevant dates.

3. Identify High and Low Tides: Find the columns or rows that correspond to the date and time you want to know the tide information for. High tides are indicated by an "H," while low tides are marked with an "L."

4. Determine Tide Heights: Read the numbers associated with high and low tides. The numbers represent the predicted height of the tides in feet or meters above or below a reference point, such as Mean Lower Low Water (MLLW).

5. Calculate Tidal Range: To calculate the tidal range for a specific day, subtract the low tide height from the high tide height.

6. Plan Your Activities: With this information, you can plan your coastal activities. For example, if you're going fishing, you might want to fish during high tide for better chances of success.

Reading a simple tide chart is an essential skill for anyone spending time near the coast. By understanding the components and following the steps we've outlined, you can confidently interpret tide charts and make the most of your coastal adventures. Whether you're a sailor, angler, or simply a beach enthusiast, knowing the tides will enhance your experience and help keep you safe. So, next time you're by the shore, don't forget to check the tide chart to make the most of your time at the beach. Good luck and fish on!

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We find ourselves often talking in terminology that doesn't always makes sense if you haven't heard the phrase. When it comes to tides there is a lot to know and tidal terminology encompasses a variety of words and phrases to describe the movement of tides and related phenomena. Here's a comprehensive list of tidal terms! We hope this helps improve your fishing experience and knowledge! 

Tidal Movements:

• Ebb Tide: The outgoing or falling tide, when the water level is receding.

• Flood Tide: The incoming or rising tide, when the water level is increasing.

• Tidal Current: The horizontal movement of water associated with the rising and falling of tides. It includes ebb currents and flood currents.

• Ebb Current: The tidal current that moves seaward, away from the shore, during the ebb tide.

• Flood Current: The tidal current that moves landward, toward the shore, during the flood tide.

Tidal Phases:

• High Tide: The point in the tidal cycle when the water level reaches its maximum height at a particular location. (H) used frequently on Tide Charts.

• Low Tide: The point in the tidal cycle when the water level reaches its minimum height at a particular location. (L) used frequently on Tide Charts.

• Tidal Range: The difference in water level between high tide and low tide.

• Spring Tide: Occurs during the full moon and new moon phases, resulting in higher high tides and lower low tides due to the combined gravitational pull of the moon and the sun. A "big swing" tide, also known as a "spring tide," is a tidal condition where the difference between high tide and low tide is relatively large. Spring tides occur during the full moon and new moon phases when the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun align. This alignment results in higher high tides and lower low tides, creating a larger tidal range.

• Neap Tide: Occurs during the first and third quarter moon phases when the moon and the sun's gravitational pull is at right angles, leading to lower high tides and higher low tides. A "small swing" tide, also known as a "neap tide," is a tidal condition where the difference between high tide and low tide is relatively small. Neap tides occur during the first and third quarter moon phases when the gravitational pull of the moon and the sun is at a right angle to each other. Neap tides produce lower high tides and higher low tides, resulting in a smaller tidal range.

Tidal Characteristics:

• Tidal Bore: A sudden and strong surge of water that rushes up a river or narrow bay, caused by the incoming tide meeting a strong river current.

• Tide Tables: Published data providing information on predicted tide times, tidal heights, and tidal currents for specific locations, essential for planning activities like fishing and boating. (As seen in image above.)

• Tide Gauge: An instrument used to measure and record water levels, often located at ports and coastal areas for monitoring tides.

Tidal Datum:

• Tidal Datum: A reference point used for measuring tidal heights and tidal currents. Common tidal datums include Mean High Water (MHW), Mean Low Water (MLW), and Mean Sea Level (MSL).

Tidal Cycles:

• Tidal Cycle: A complete tidal cycle, typically involving two high tides and two low tides in a 24-hour period.

• Slack Tide: The short period between the ebb and flood currents when the water is relatively still and changes direction.

Tidal Patterns:

• Semi-diurnal Tides: Tides with two high tides and two low tides of nearly equal height each day, which is common in many coastal regions.

• Diurnal Tides: Tides with only one high tide and one low tide each day, which occur in some areas.

• Mixed Tides: Tides with a combination of both diurnal and semi-diurnal tidal patterns, resulting in varying tidal heights.

• King Tide: A "king tide" is an informal term used to describe the highest tides that occur during the year. These exceptional tides result from the gravitational influence of the moon and the sun, and they often lead to temporary coastal flooding, providing a glimpse of the potential impact of rising sea levels on coastal communities. King tides are a crucial reference point for understanding and planning for the effects of climate change on coastal areas. If you haven't seen a king tide event in Ilwaco it is a must! 

Understanding these tidal terms is crucial for a wide range of activities. At Spawn we use them in relation to fishing but this is great information to know from navigation and fishing to beach combing and coastal planning. Tidal conditions can significantly impact safety and success! Shop Spawn and comes see us!

*image from tides.net

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In the world of Puget Sound, there's a fishing mantra passed down through generations: "You should always fish the outgoing tide; it's the best." But when it comes to the art of Sea Run Cutthroat fishing, the tides tell a different, more intriguing story. After countless hours spent chasing these elusive fish in our beloved Salish Sea, we've learned that the conventional wisdom doesn't always hold up, and the thrill of challenging the tide's rules is an adventure like no other.

One of the first lessons we've embraced is that every beach has its own distinctive character, and there's no one-size-fits-all rule when it comes to Sea Run Cutthroat and the tide. Some beaches come alive during high slack, while others keep their secrets until the tide starts its ebb. And then there are those hidden gems that reveal their bounty during the incoming tide.

What we've learned is that rather than adhering religiously to one golden rule, you need to acquaint yourself with each beach. Even if you've had success on a specific tide, there's still value in exploring different tides to truly understand the area. Spend time carefully observing and recording how Sea Run Cutthroat behave during various stages of the tide along that particular shoreline. Note their feeding patterns, the spots they favor behind rocks and oyster beds, and how their behavior transforms as the tide ebbs and flows.

Success in Sea Run Cutthroat fishing lies in the minutiae. This means meticulously noting the tide, monitoring weather conditions, moon phases, and the types of prey in the area. The more data you gather and dissect, the better you'll grasp the specific patterns that govern Sea Run Cutthroat behavior at your chosen location.

By paying close attention to the tides, you'll discover that there's no one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, you'll unveil the nuanced ebb and flow of Sea Run Cutthroat habits in your unique corner of the world. This level of dedication and attention to detail transforms you from a casual angler into a seasoned one, seemingly overnight.

What captivates us most about Sea Run Cutthroat fishing is the ever-evolving nature of the sport. After years of mastering the tides and gaining a deep understanding of the local ecosystem on a particular beach, everything can change. Seasons shift, water temperatures fluctuate, and the fish's patterns change.

This fishery keeps us humble, reminding us that regardless of our experience, there's always more to learn. As the seasons change and the tides flow in and out, Sea Run Cutthroat fishing offers an endless opportunity for exploration and discovery. The ocean's mysteries and the ever-present challenge of the tide continue to beckon, ensuring that we'll never grow tired of the pursuit.

In the world of angling, it's tempting to cling to rules and conventional wisdom. Yet, for those who dare to question, pay attention to the details, and embrace the ever-changing nature of Sea Run Cutthroat fishing, the reward is an angling adventure unlike any other.  

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