PUGET SOUND FISHING REPORT - May 2, 2025By Artificial Lure, Local Angling ExpertGood morning, fellow anglers! It's a beautiful early May day here on the Sound, and I'm excited to share what's biting and where you should be casting your line today.Lingcod season is in full swing across Puget Sound, and that's where the action is this month. With salmon areas typically closed in May around Seattle, these aggressive fighters are the prime target. These toothy predators are providing great battles in waters 120 feet and less, striking aggressively but requiring patience to hook properly. Let them turn with the bait for a good hook set before the real fun begins - keeping these powerful fish from retreating to their rocky hideouts.For those craving salmon action, you've just missed the April opportunities. Marine Areas 10 (Seattle-Bremerton) and 11 (Tacoma-Vashon) were open Wednesday through Saturday in April for Chinook. The 2025 forecast shows promising numbers similar to last year's stellar season - we're seeing slightly better numbers in the mid-Puget Sound with Lake Washington, Gorst and Puyallup contributing to the increase, while the Green is holding steady. South Sound is also looking positive with Chambers, Minter, and the Deschutes slightly up, though Nisqually is down about 2000 fish.For lingcod tactics, live bait is king. Patience is essential - wait for that rod to load up, let the fish turn with the bait, then set the hook firmly. The battle might be short in our regulated depths, but seeing those wide-open mouths with razor-sharp teeth breaching the surface makes it all worthwhile.Hot spots today: Try Point No Point for consistent lingcod action, or head to Possession Bar where the rocky structure holds plenty of ambush predators. For the adventurous, the artificial reefs near Edmonds have been producing some quality fish.Remember to clean, drain, and dry all your gear and watercraft to prevent spreading aquatic invasive species in our precious waters.For those planning ahead, keep an eye on those summer king salmon opportunities. The forecast shows over 6 million salmon expected to return to Puget Sound this year, though expect tight chinook retention regulations.Tight lines and good luck out there! This is Artificial Lure signing off - catch you on the water!