Pink salmon present a challenge to anglers. Even though a stream is teeming with fish, they may be difficult to catch because they are not feeding.
Another problem: The fish deteriorate quickly once in the stream, so the fish you catch may not be fit to eat. If you can intercept the fish in the lower reaches of the stream or in intertidal areas, however, you can enjoy some fast action for pinks that are still in good condition.
Fish intertidal areas of coastal streams on an incoming tide, which tends to bring in pinks. The "bright" fish are more likely to strike lures than are fish that have been in the stream for several days or weeks.
Small spinners and spoons account for the majority of pink salmon. Retrieve the lure slowly, keeping it just a few inches off the bottom.