Washington Fishing
While fishing is a favorite sport of many residents and visitors to Washington, it is important to note that there have been recent changes in the maximum number of salmon caught. This is due to decreasing numbers of wild salmon in water throughout the state. As a result, it is important that you check on any changes before you set out to catch “the big one”. When you head to the water, be sure you have the appropriate fishing license and are aware of any pertaining regulations. These regulations and updates can be found at WDFW "Fishing in Washington" rules pamphlet or by calling (360) 902-2500, press 2 for recreational rules. For the Shellfish Rule Change hotline call (360)796-3215 or toll free 1-866-880-5431.
Chelan, WA —This is the entrance to Lake Chelan and the Cascades Mountains. You will find fishing at Alta Lake, at Twenty-five Mile Creek and Lake Chelan State Park.
Leavenworth National Fish Hatchery (509-548-7641) - For steelhead and Chinook salmon, spend some time here.
The Elwha River (Olympic National Park)- As Olympic’s largest watershed, the Elwha is a fantastic place for reeling in pink salmon, Chinook salmon, sea-run trout as well as several other varieties of salmon.
Squalicum Creek (Bellingham) -a great location for steelhead. Other area fishing spots are the creek at Arroyo Park, Lake Padden, Boulevard Pack’s fishing and boat dock, Bloedel Donovan Park(boat launch) and fishing, clamming, and crabbing at Larrabee State Park.
Blake Island (Bremerton/Puget Sound) -an ideal place for fishing and boating. It is only reached by boat.
Schaffer State Park (Aberdeen) - Grab your gear and spend some time casting a line for the steelhead, salmon and cutthroat trout that swim here.
Deception Pass State Park (Anacortes) - Here you will find many chances to catch the big one in one of the 4 lakes where you can go fishing, clamming, or boating. Also nearby is saltwater fishing at Washington Park.
Lake Roosevelt (Coulee Dam) - Formed by Grand Coulee Dam, the lake here can be fished from boats of all sizes, or from shore all year. Other fishing can be found at Moss Lake Recreation Area, Cascade Park, Blue Heron Park, Potholes Reservoir and Potholes State Park.
Silver Lake (Kelso) - Located in Seaquest State Park, there are approximately 10,000 fish caught here each summer.
Mt. Rainier - Year round fishing at the many lakes and ponds—and no license is needed. However, ice fishing is not allowed.
Skamania County -Columbia River Gorge- Whether you fish from a boat or wade in the water, this is a fantastic place for trophy fish. You will find steelhead, salmon and sturgeon in the Columbia River Gorge and, should you venture out to area streams and lakes you will find trout and bass.
Pacific County / Long Beach - Be sure to spend some time fishing the Ocean and Columbia Rivers here. Charter boats can be retained in Ilwaco (known as the Fishing Capital of the West) so you can angle for sturgeon and Chinook salmon.
Lake Chelan has 6 boat launches, as well as several boat marinas that provide opportunities to cast a line for the trout, salmon, and bass swimming in the shimmering blue waters.
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