I don't remember where I saw the reference, but if memory serves me correct (PSA Page??):

Blackmouth:

2 1/2 year old fish- 22"- 4#
3 - 3 1/2 year old- 24 to 26"- 8 -10#
4 years+ 15#+

There was a plus/minus factor due to location and amount of bait for specific areas of the sound (would like to know how they came up with this).

I am in concurrence with you Seacat on the majority of the bait moving North. Sekiu (and surrounding areas) normally has a ton of bait in Feb. On the other hand, I know of a few locations of spawning in area 13 where these fish follow the herrring around.

I would say, the majority of the fish follow the bait North. Which in turn is why we hear of "nice" catches up North more often than the Sound South.

I believe in the early 80's we had a 24" limit. Sure made a lot of folks mad however, made for a great Spring/Summer fishery though.

Haven't heard the lastest on the release program since Percival Cove was closed. However, the last time I heard numbers was two years ago. 2.2 million fish released.

Downriggin'