Flowing from Lake Sammamish to Lake Washington, the river flows through rural and urban areas. Dave Campbell and Susanne Staats have organized a fishing/paddling adventure to scope out the river.
When: June 17th. Arrive between 9:00-9:30 a.m. Be ready to paddle at 9:45 a.m.
Where: Park at Kenmore Boat Launch (KBL) parking lot. The address is 17150 68th Ave. N.E., Kenmore.
What: We can fish/paddle and explore several areas: 1). From KBL up the Sammamish River to Wayne Park, Bothell. Then we do a U-turn and paddle downstream to KBL. Approximately 1.5 miles each way. 2). From KBL down river to Squawk Slough and the mouth of the river where it meets Lake Washington. Approximately 1/4 mile 3). Kenmore Paddle Park, Flying Dragon Boat Club and the mouth of Swamp Creek. Approximately 1/2 mile above KBL.
These are suggested routes. Participants can choose to go shorter or longer distances.
Watercraft: Recommend kayaks or canoes. Pontoon boats may work but you will be rowing against the current from KBL to Wayne Park. Water flow at Kenmore is not evident; at Bothell water flow is sluggish but perceptible.
Fishing Prospects: Per Avid Angler staff, the Sammamish River is "a hidden gem". It contains bass, crappie, blue gill carp, suckers, cutthroat, and rainbow. Staff knew of young men fishing from the shoreline bringing in 20+" trout. Avid Angler suggests dry line and soft hackle flies or strike indicator with nymph fished shallow. Surprisingly, the river has some good hatches but don't expect good dry fly action.
Restrooms: Kenmore Boat Ramp has portable toilets. Kenmore Paddle Park has well maintained facilities.
RSVP: If you want to go, please RSVP using this forum or contact Dave (206) 713-8208 or Susanne (206) 794-1553.
