I used to live in Bellingham. I fished the area where the middle fork joins the North. Head up toward deming and turn right on Mosquito lake rd. Park just past the bridge. There is a good beginners hole under the bridge. Also if you walk downstream follow the Middle fork ( to the left) and walk up it as well. If you want to get closer to the hatchery take the first rd left after the bridge (not the campsite ) and follow that road until you see pulloffs. There is one spot where their will probably be some people. I would suggest going where the people are (as a beginner) until you figure out what your doing. I first drift fished in the Nooksack but wasted alot of time cause I didn't know what the heck to do. Your name being five weight I am assuming that you are flyfishing. (if so, definitely look for other people) from what I remember alot of that water is fast and it will be hard to get a good drift. Maybe take a spinning rod along so you dont get let down.

How is Whatcom creek? I have wondered if anything is starting to grow back? What a tragedy!
I miss it up there, used to volunteer with NSEA ( Nooksack Salmon Enhancement) if you have time on a blown out river weekend its a great place to volunteer to help out the river ( and meet prospective river contacts :-) )
Good Luck!