John?s word of caution is appropriate, but birders also need to be aware that WDFW no longer owns the pier. It was transferred to the City of Edmonds and is maintained as a multi-use pier. If you can go by the sign at the foot of the pier, the official name is Edmonds Public Fishing Pier. I choose to put the emphasis on public. I never refer to it as the fishing pier. Edmonds residents use the pier for sunset views, for photography, whale-watching, birding, walking. It is pretty much first come, first serve. If another pier user is there before you, obviously don?t get in that individual?s way, whether it is an angler or a photographer. Just common courtesy. I have observed a lot of inappropriate and anti-social behavior among the fishing crowd, from smoking on the pier to incredible littering. If another user acts inappropriate or threatening, don?t hesitate to call 911. Birders have as much right to the pier as do other users. Hopefully, everyone will continue to get along. Most of the people fishing are pretty nice and often express an interest in birds seen.

Carol Riddell
Edmonds