Solid setup for Alki flounder tonight — with early-winter Puget Sound conditions, here's a practical plan to maximize your 5-7 pm bite.
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Gear recap: You’ve got a 15-inch double looper rig, a 1.5 oz sinker, and #1 hooks, paired with 2 x 3" gulp shrimp. For this environment, that bottom-heavy setup is spot on to keep baits in contact on a windy, current-y evening. Your Abu Garcia Ambassadeur S combo will handle the weight and provide solid drag control.
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Where and when to cast: Focus along the edge of Alki Beach’s drop-offs and sandy flats by pilings or weed lines where flounder like to cruise. Cast toward the channel and work the bait with subtle pulls, letting the current pull the line.
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How to present the bait: Keep your baits near the bottom. Thread the two gulp shrimps onto the two hooks so both bait pieces ride naturally; balance the hook placement so the shrimp tail wiggles with the tide. If you’re snagging a lot on pilings or rocks, consider shortening the leader to reduce snagging.
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Tide and timing tips: In the Puget Sound area, evening bites often pick up around tide changes. With a 5-7 pm window, watch for a turning tide; lighter bites may come just after slack water, while a clean ebb can produce better picks. Always check a local tide chart for Alki.
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Weather and water temp effects: It’s early winter in West Seattle. Expect water temps around the 40s F. Overcast and cooler water slow the metabolism, so bites can be tentative. A steady bait presentation and a patient, steady retrieve pays off. A subtle bite might mean the fish are cruising near the bottom; keep your line taut but relaxed enough to feel light takes.
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Pro tips: Use a slow, methodical retrieve with occasional short taps to imitate a wounded shrimp; keep the bait close to bottom and watch your line for subtle takes; if the current is strong, consider a slightly heavier weight or a slipped-weight setup to maintain bottom contact.
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Gear and product links (fishing-relevant):
- Video context from Puget Sound fishing: Pink Salmon Fishing In Puget Sound Seattle Washington.
- PLUSINNO Fishing Lures, 137Pcs Tackle Box
- TRUSCEND Easy Catch Swimmax Lure
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Safety and mindset: Dress in layers, bring a warm jacket, and wear a PFD when near the water’s edge. Stay patient; evening bites can be subtle but steady once you dial in the bottom geometry.
Good luck out there—ride the tide, keep that bait hugging the bottom, and may your line stay tight! 🚣♂️🐟
