PUGET SOUND SEATTLE, WASHINGTON

Shaped by glaciers, Puget Sound is a deep, protected fjord connected to the Pacific Ocean. To the west, the Olympic Mountains rise 7,979 feet, and to the east, the Cascade Range boasts spectacular volcanic peaks like Mount Rainier and Mount Baker, reaching 14,411 feet. While the waters are generally calm, it’s best to dress in layers as temperatures stay a brisk 45-50 degrees.

Year-round, you can spot wildlife like eagles, osprey, seals, sea lions, porpoises, and orcas. The area also has a thriving maritime industry. Just half a mile from the Ballard Locks, you’re sure to catch close-up views of cruise ships, freighters, tugboats, ferries, and occasionally a Deadliest Catch crab boat.

Top fishing targets include Chinook, Pink, and Coho salmon, as well as lingcod and Dungeness crab. Seasons are set by the Washington Department of Fish and Game.