Fishing Opportunities in Washington
The state of Washington is America’s prime adventure destination – and boasts some of the best fishing in the country. With abundant species of the most famous fish in the Pacific Northwest, Washington is a must-go on every fisher’s wish list. With six distinct fishing regions, there’s always something new to discover in Washington – and you will never run out of top fishing spots! We have compiled some of Washington’s best fishing guides to help you plan for your next fishing trip.
Common Fish Species in Washington
Washington boasts fishing opportunities for both fish and shellfish, freshwater and saltwater environments. Washington is famous for its abundance of wild Pacific salmon, which embark on salmon runs up and down the West Coast throughout the year. The world-famous Columbia River has some of the best opportunities to catch wild Pacific salmon in the Pacific Northwest.
Common varieties of salmon include pink salmon and king salmon. Trout varieties, including rainbow and cutthroat, are also common in Washington’s freshwater environments. Other common species of fish you can catch in Washington include:
- Lingcod
- Dolly Varden
- Brown trout
- Tiger muskellunge
- Largemouth and smallmouth bass
- Walleye
- Catfish
- Whitefish
- Steelhead
- White sturgeon
Washington is also known for shell-fishing opportunities. Clams and crabs are especially abundant along the Washington coast.
Best Fishing Spots in Washington
Washington has six distinct fishing regions.
- Eastern Washington, known for lakes, reservoirs, and streams, is perfect for trout and salmon fishing.
- North Central Washington is known for rivers, lakes, salmon, bass, trout, steelhead, and walleye.
- South Central Washington, known for the Yakima River and the Hanford Reach, provides abundant salmon and white sturgeon fishing opportunities.
- North Puget Sound is known for the Cascade Mountains and marine fishing opportunities.
- Southwest Washington is known for steelhead streams and the fall Chinook salmon run.
- Coastal Washington is known for marine fishing opportunities, Grays Harbor, and Willapa Bay.
Washington encompasses multiple types of fishing environments, making it easy for fishers to choose destinations to create the perfect fishing trip. The state is home to many top fishing hotspots, including:
- Ross Lake: One of the most secluded lakes in Washington state, it is known for abundant rainbow trout.
- Lower Columbia River is famous for salmon and steelhead fishing.
- Yakima River Basin Provides steady cold-water streams for year-round, diverse fish populations.
- Mt. Adams is known for abundant trout populations.
- Lake Roosevelt us a popular fishing and camping destination home to rainbow trout.
- Curlew Lake is home to tiger muskellunge.
In Washington state, lakes, ponds, and reservoirs are open for catching game fish year-round, with the exception of certain varieties such as Dolly Varden. Freshwater areas are typically open 24 hours per day during operating days. Seasons are divided into salmon and game fish seasons, with each subject to different rules and regulations.
Choose Washington for Your Next Fishing Trip
With abundant fishing spots, famous fish varieties, and a gorgeous ecological landscape, Washington State is a top fishing hotspot for the most avid fishers. Experience the Columbia River salmon runs, enjoy the views from Mt. Adams, and catch large crabs and other shellfish along the Washington coast.
Choose Washington for your next best fishing trip and the adventure of a lifetime.
CTA Title: Looking for Adventure? Plan Your Best Fishing Trip to Washington Today
CTA Description: For more information on top fishing opportunities and details in Washington State, connect with one of the state’s best fishing guides today!
Sources:
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/
https://www.takemefishing.org/washington/fishing/
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/vacation/