The Captain’s Log: 2025 Sockeye Season Update from the Nushagak

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

Four fishing images from 2025's sockeye salmon run in Bristol Bay featuring the FV Ava Jane
Fun fishing images from Bristol Bay's 2025 season
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6 comments

  • Awesome products!!

    Bambi Jackson 07-15-2025
  • Love hearing this message from Captain Kurian. Hope the fishing has continued to be good. We just had your sockeye tonight for dinner with company and they said it was the best salmon they ever had so we gave them your info with details of how to cook it. They live in the Danville area but haven’t been to your store yet since they moved to the area as they are busy with work and life.
    Stay safe and enjoy!

    Linda Marks 07-15-2025
  • Thank you for sharing, I appreciate your journeys and the narrative.
    you are in my prayers

    Nancy J Farrell 07-15-2025

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