Hello guys,
I'm a salmon and steelhead fisherman from the great lakes region (upstate NY) and will be staying on Whidbey Island for a week, followed by Seattle for a week in mid July. My wife is running in some crazy relay race along PS and we're going to make a vacation of it. I'd like to do some fishing while out there and wanted the local expert opinions on what fisheries I should try to target. Willing to drive wherever and pay for a guide....not looking for anyones honey holes obviously, just looking for the best experience. Thanks in advance for any advice.

Hook up with Gilley (Matt). Someone will be along shortly to give you his contact information.

Here is a link to Matt's website.

Great guide- great guy- you won't be disappointed in spending a day on Matt's boat.

http://www.tyeecharters.net/

If you are looking for an ocean-fishing experience, give Sean Orr a call - linky ------------> http://www.washingtonwestfishing.com/

Jay Fields Dash One charters out of Anacortes off of the North end of Whidby.(no ferry ride needed) will get you into the San Juans.
once you see it you will want to come back.
might be better depending on date.

Yes, Tyee charters with captain Matt would be a fun time. Good luck,

SZ

Your timing might turn out to be great if you can find a ride for the MA 9/10 marked selective Chinook fishery which opens 16 July. MA9 is the lower West side of Whidbey to Edmonds and MA10 is Edmonds South to Seattle.

Or you can look to extending your exposure to WA by a run to Neah Bay or Westport. If Neah Bay be sure to check with Jambo Sport Fishing (www.jambossportfishing.com); great boat and very nice folks - and they really know the fishery up there!

Thanks a lot guys, exactly what I was looking for. Any river fishing opportunities I should be thinking about?

Jambos would be awesome if you want to take a little drive.

Gary or Nick from Allstar Charters will put you on the fish.

http://www.allstarfishing.com/default.asp

Stick all these ideas on the wall and throw a dart... so many phenomenal options out there that it will be a tough decision!

The Ragnar Relay is from Blaine to Langley on Whidbey Isl covering 18-19 July. You do not want to be on the south end of Whidbey late on the 19th and especially not trying to catch a ferry!

If that is the race as the timing suggests, he will be further north as they prepare so maybe as suggested fish early of Anacortes and then MA9/10 the following week or a trip to the coast (I still recommend Jambos as positive memory makers).