South Puget Sound / Olympia
Active Regulations
CLOSED: WDFW closes Hood Canal, Admiralty Inlet shellfish harvesting effective immediately following reports of lethal levels of shellfish biotoxins
RESTRICTION: WDFW classifies invasive golden mussels as prohibited statewide
(2026-04-09 to 2026-04-09)
About Marine Area 13
Marine Area 13 covers the southernmost reaches of Puget Sound, from the Nisqually River delta to Olympia and the many inlets that define South Sound. This area offers a different character from northern areas — shallower, warmer waters with extensive mudflat habitat and strong Chum and Coho runs in fall.
Boston Harbor and Budd Inlet are the main fishing access points. The Nisqually Reach is a productive stretch for salmon during the fall runs. Henderson Inlet offers sheltered crabbing. While less known than the areas to the north, Area 13 rewards anglers who know the tides.
Map & Tide
Where the structure is, and when the water moves. Tap a hotspot for its depth, structure, and best tide, then time your trip around the tide windows below.
Current Conditions
Species Outlook
Season Status
Emergency rules checked live as of Tuesday, July 14, 2026. Base seasons are a static quick reference — see source and last-verified date below.
Fishing Hotspots
Boston Harbor
Primary marina for South Sound — fish staging areas near the harbor
Budd Inlet
Olympia's waterfront — accessible fishing with occasional good action
Nisqually Reach
Nisqually River delta funnels migrating salmon through this corridor
Henderson Inlet
Sheltered inlet with excellent crabbing and some salmon action
Crab Spots
Boston Harbor · Henderson Inlet · Nisqually Reach
Recent Catches (14 days)
Access Points
- Boston Harbor Marina
- Zittel's Marina
- Luhr Beach boat launch
- Olympia city docks
Other Marine Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What is biting in Marine Area 13 right now?
Area 13 fishes well from spring through fall. Blackmouth start in April, summer kings run August-September, and fall brings strong Coho and Chum runs. Check our daily predictions for current ratings.
Best spots to fish in Marine Area 13?
Boston Harbor and Nisqually Reach are the top salmon spots. Budd Inlet near Olympia is accessible. Henderson Inlet is the go-to for crabbing in protected waters.
Where can I crab in Area 13?
Henderson Inlet, Boston Harbor, and Nisqually Reach are the top crab spots. The sheltered inlets make for comfortable crabbing even on windy days.
Is Area 13 less crowded than Area 10?
Yes, significantly. Area 13 sees a fraction of the fishing pressure of areas closer to Seattle. If you are willing to make the drive to Olympia, you will often have productive water to yourself.