Washington Freshwater Fishing

Freshwater fishing in Washington

In the state of Washington, freshwater fishing is a widely enjoyed pastime. In Washington, you are able to enjoy freshwater and saltwater fishing and gathering shellfish throughout the year. Fisherman come from all across the country to enjoy the bounty of the Washington fishery, and they bring their own preferences with them.

Licensing for Freshwater Fishing in Washington

Everyone who wishes to enjoy fishing in Washington is required to purchase a fishing license issued by the state. Those interested in fishing for salmon or steelhead trout in the Columbia River must also purchase an additional endorsement. Other bodies of water might require endorsements in the future. Current licenses issued for fishing include an annual freshwater license, annual saltwater license, annual shellfish license, annual combo license and one-, two-, three-, four- or five-day combo licenses for saltwater, freshwater and shellfish.

Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife
Licensing Division
600 Capital Way North
Olympia, WA 98501
360-902-2464
wdfw.wa.gov

Types of Freshwater Fishing found in Washington

Fly-fishing is such a popular fishing style in the state of Washington that there are schools, classes and clinics that offer instruction and education as well as advanced practice in this artful style of fishing. Trolling, dragging a line behind a slowly moving boat or moving the line from one side to another to attract fish, also is popular when fishing for Washington trout. Angling is yet another popular style of fishing in Washington freshwater and is a favorite among trout fishermen.

Types of Freshwater Fish for Fishing in Washington

In addition to the many fishing styles, there also are a wide range of fishing species that can be found in Washington rivers, lakes, creeks and streams. Bass, trout, pike, crappie, walleye, perch and salmon are just a few of the choices you can target when fishing in Washington. In the trout family, there are rainbow trout, tiger trout, brown trout and Eastern brook trout. Salmon fishing is available for Coho salmon, sockeye salmon, pink salmon and Chinook salmon.

Locations for Freshwater Fishing in Washington State

Washington is filled with countless creeks and streams that are great for casting a fly or dropping a line. There also are several lakes and rivers that are famous for the abundant supplies of certain types of fish they hold. Great lakes for salmon fishing include Alder Lake, Franklin D. Roosevelt Lake, Lake Washington and Lake Crescent. Trout fishing is popular in Lake Ross, Swift Reservoir, Palmer Lake and Lake Herbert G West.

Freshwater Charters in Washington

In addition to many schools for fly-fishing, there are other excellent services that offer charter fishing to people interested in an authentic Washington freshwater experience. A charter or guide service is a great way to enjoy the full experience without buying all the necessary equipment or facing a long learning curve for freshwater fishing. Using a charter or guide service for basic fishing needs will ensure that all bases are covered. It also greatly improves the odds that fish will be caught during the outing.

References

• Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife
• Emerald Water Anglers Fly Fishing Clinics
• Sportfish of Washington