2014 Coho Kayak Classic - Launch Info

Some of you have asked about launching your kayak from the Ballard Elks Beach ( 6411 Seaview Ave NW, Seattle, WA 98117).  The Ballard Elks share a SMALL beach with the condos next door.  You are more than welcome to launch your kayak from their small beach and even park your vehicle in the Ballard Elks Parking Lot the day of the event. The beach is accessible by a narrow pathway with about three steps to the water.   The NORTH (to the right walking down steps) half of the beach is the Elks.  Stay on the NORTH half of the beach for launching.

I only ask that those anglers launching early keep their voices down as the condos are right next door.  It's best to load your kayak wheel to the steps and get in the water and go.  We want to be courtious to the people living in these condos.  Please note that the condo association does have a security guard that patrols the beach.  Beach access IS public so don't feel threatened if someone tells you otherwise.

When pulling out at the end of the day, please be sure to limit your time leaving your kayak on the beach and load out as soon as possible.  Saturday will be a nice day and the beach isn't that big.  SUP's and beach goers also use the beach in the late morning and into the afternoon.



Eddie Vine Boat Ramp (between Shilshole & Golden Gardens Park)

Using the boat launch just a mile north of the Elks is also a great place to launch.  With the coho season moving into full swing the launch will be busy with boat trailers in the morning but having a kayak takes out a lot of the hassle.  There's street parking and I often unload on the street if I can find parking close.

Golden Gardens is just up from the boat launch for those of you wanting to do a beach launch.

After fishing, we will be holding an awards ceremony on the second floor of the Elks.  Inside the main entrance to the left, follow the stairs up or use the elevator.  We should be Lodge room (next to the bar) where you can order food, beers, etc and enjoy the great view.  Dino mentioned we will have a "Coho Kayak Special" of $7 for a burger, fries and a tap micro brew.  The Elks bar next door is only open to members or guests accompanying members.  The lodge hall is the room right next door.  Just let the staff know you are in the derby.

Thank you for the helpful information :]

We must launch and land from Shilshole area but are we allowed to fish all of area 10?

Bill you can launch from other areas as long as I have your waivers and you can be back to check in your fish before 3pm.

Might be a bit crazy on the water as the Edmonds Coho Derby will also be going on this Saturday.

Just had to correct my original post.  Inner Shilshole (inside Meadow Point / Westpoint line) is open for retention of coho salmon as of September 1st.