Unfortunately over- harvesting by sport and commercial fishermen in Puget Sound has basically destroyed any viable fishery for rockfish in Puet Sound. With a limit of one rockfish, any rock fishing done in Puget Sound should be done in water less than 60 feet deep. Rockfish taken from deeper than 60 feet generally suffer air bladder damage from decompressing and will not survive releasing.

Shallow water bottom fishing in 17-30 feet of water casting leadhead jigs offers the most sport and the ability to release fish that will likely survive.

Ling cod have made a pretty dramatic recovery in the past several years in Puget Sound. They can be found in shallow water in the spring. The season is fairly short, but it is an opportunity worth investing time.

Be aware of the slot limit and practice catch and release, these fish are fun on lighter tackle. Since ling cod do not have swim bladders, they can be released without damage in most cases.