There are no absolutes in this argument. In winter, under typical winter/spring conditions here on the Washington coast, wild fish are, on average, much superior in fight and stamina. For whatever reason, I've observed much more of a difference between hatchery and wild in the winter. However, I did have one humtulips hatchery fish last winter go berserk with 4 jumps and as many long runs with the outcome much in doubt.....there are no absolutes.

In summer fish, I've observed little if any difference in fight and stamina between hatchery and wild. Water temperature may play into this but again, there are many variables. I've caught both hatchery and wild summer-runs in the Wynoochee, Kalama, Toutle and Green (toutle trib.)Some have faught like toads but most(hatchery and wild) over the years have given a great account of themselves. I caught a hatchery fish on the Wynoochee a week ago that faught as well as a fish can....in fact, it's stamina was above average. A memorable fish!!

I just hope we still have hatchery summer-runs to fish for in years to come. I live for these fish. Great sport, great fish and great weather.

Sure seems like meaningful numbers of plants are becoming scarce in more and more rivers though. My fingers are crossed.