2009 Fishing Prospects
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COUNTY-BY-COUNTY (D-J)

The following sections give a brief description of fishing opportunities in each county, arranged in alphabetical order. Open seasons and other regulations are given for convenience only. For specific regulation information, refer to the Fishing in Washington sport fishing rules pamphlet. Until the current year’s pamphlet is available (usually by May 1 at the latest), continue to use the previous edition, which is valid through April 30.

Also check with the nearest WDFW regional office, the department's web site at http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/, or local newspapers for the latest information on emergency closures or special openings. WDFW office telephone numbers are listed on the inside front cover.

Counties Listed Alphabetically
A-C | D-J | K-L | M-P | S | T- Y

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Columbia River:  The Columbia River from Wells Dam to Chief Joseph Dam holds good numbers of smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as walleye. Bank access is limited in this area, but boat anglers can use any one of the launching facilities at Brewster, Bridgeport, and Pateros. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Grimes Lake (124 acres): Five miles southeast of Mansfield. June 1 through August 31 open season. Selective gear rules are in effect, with a 1-trout daily limit. Fishing should be good for Lahontan cutthroat trout up to 20 inches. Access is off of Wittig Road just south of Mansfield.

Jameson Lake (332 acres): Eight miles south of Mansfield. The lake is open from the last Saturday in April through July 4, then again from Oct 1-31. Jameson Lake has suffered from algae blooms the last few years, and trout survival sometimes suffers. If water quality is favorable, 30-50,000 catchable-sized (10-12 inch) rainbow and close to 1,500 triploid rainbow at 1-2 lbs each will be stocked before the opener. For updates, call the region 2 office (509-754-4624). To reach the resort at the north end of the lake, follow Mansfield Road and Wittig Road south of Mansfield. To reach the resort and WDFW access site on the south end, go north on Jameson Lake Road from Highway US-2 about 20 miles east of Coulee City. Campsites, toilets, and boat launching are available at both the north and south ends of Jameson Lake. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Pit Lake: This small pond in Rock Island is open to juveniles only (14 years of age and younger) and has a year-round open fishing season. Catchable-size rainbow trout are planted in spring.

Rock Island ponds: These small ponds border the town of Rock Island off of Highway SR-28 and have a year-round open fishing season. These waters are managed primarily for bass and bluegill. Rehabilitation was done a few years ago to remove stunted perch and sunfish that were limiting growth of bass and bluegill. Illegal reintroductions have been made, unfortunately, and bass/bluegill populations are growing slowly, but should offer limited catches of bass over 12 inches and bluegill 7 to 8 inches. Catchable-size (10 inches) rainbow trout are stocked annually in March and again just prior to Free Fishing Weekend in June. Expect fair trout fishing this year. Early-season trout angling (in March) may be slow due to cold-water temperatures.

Rufus Woods Lake (7800 acres): Forming the border between Douglas and Okanogan Counties, this 51-mile long Columbia River Reservoir’s acreage is about evenly split between these two counties, except for a very small portion immediately below Grand Coulee Dam in Grant County. This body of water has a year-round open fishing season. Walleye, triploid rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, yellow perch and kokanee are the main species available. Limit is two trout and two kokanee. Chumming is permitted. Colville tribal boundary waters apply: only a state fishing license is required when fishing from a boat; a tribal fishing permit is required when fishing from shore on tribal lands. Boating access is good with launch sites at Bridgeport State Park, the Army Corps of Engineers’ site upstream of Chief Joseph Dam, and at Seaton’s Grove two miles downstream from Elmer City.

FERRY COUNTY

Columbia River / Roosevelt, Lake: See Stevens County, which contains 43% of this impoundment. (Compared to 35% in Ferry County.)

Curlew Lake (870 acres): Located four miles northeast of Republic, along Highway SR-21, this body of water has a year-round open season. Spring and early summer fishing for fry planted and net-pen reared rainbow trout should be good. Largemouth bass are caught in summer and fall. Tiger muskies were planted in 1998 to control a large northern pikeminnow population. Camping, picnicking, and public boat access are all available at Curlew Lake State Park and private resorts.

Davis Lake (10 acres): Five miles northwest of Boyds, at 4,550 feet elevation in Colville National Forest. Fishing season starts the last Saturday in April and runs through October 31, but heavy winter snowfall can impede access to the lake on opening day. Internal combustion engines are prohibited by Ferry County ordinance. This small lake offers nine to 12-inch cutthroat trout from annual fry plants. A Forest Service campground is available. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Ellen, Lake (78 acres): Fourteen miles north of Inchelium, at 2300 feet elevation in Colville National Forest. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. As of 2005, the lake was re-contaminated with largemouth bass and green sunfish. Trout growth in 2007 was poor so trout fishing in 2008 was poor. This lake was rehabilitated in fall 2008, and will be re-planted with rainbow trout catchables and fry this spring. Expect fair numbers of small trout on the opener. A developed Forest Service campground is available. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Empire lakes (6 acres total): These three small lakes are located eleven miles north of Republic, at 3,600 feet elevation in the Colville National Forest. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Eastern Brook trout fry plants are regularly made in these small lakes and anglers can expect to land eight-inch rainbows by the opener. Use of motorized boats is not allowed.

Ferry Lake (19 acres): Located nine miles south of Republic, west of Highway SR-21, up Forest Road 53/Scatter Creek, at 3329 feet elevation in Colville National Forest, this body of water has a year-round open season. Annual plants of fry and catchable-size rainbow trout keep this lake a useable fishery, despite frequent winterkills. A Forest Service campground is available.

Fish Lake (4 acres): This little near-alpine lake, at 3,300 feet elevation, is located about one mile south of Ferry Lake by county road. Open season is from the last Saturday in April through October 31. Catchable-size rainbow trout are planted annually. Motorized boats are not allowed. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Kettle River: Expect excellent late-winter mountain whitefish angling during the special November 1 through May 31 whitefish season. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for gear restrictions on whitefish. To protect its native spawning rainbow trout, this waterway is closed to fishing for all species except whitefish from November 1 through May 31 above the Roosevelt Lake boundary (Barstow Bridge). Selective gear rules are in effect during the June 1 through October 31 open season. Sturgeon fishing is closed at all times.

Long Lake (14 acres): About eleven miles southwest of Republic, in the Scatter Creek drainage and located in the Colville National Forest, at 3,250 feet elevation this body of water opens the last Saturday in April and runs through October 31. Fly-fishing only. Fry-planted cutthroat trout should yield some 9-17-inch catches, especially by fall. There is a Forest Service campground and boat launch, but motorized boats are not allowed.

Renner Lake (9.6 acres): Two miles west of Barstow and six miles south from Orient, at 2,525 feet elevation in the Colville National Forest. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Internal combustion engines are prohibited by Ferry County ordinance. Access is a walk-in of about one-half mile. The lake is stocked occasionally with catchable brown trout and brook trout fry. This small lake has a small Forest Service campground and a primitive boat launch site.

Roosevelt, Lake: See Stevens County, which contains 43% of this impoundment (compared to 35% in Ferry County).

Swan Lake (52 acres): About 10 miles southwest of Republic, up the Scatter Creek drainage, in Colville National Forest just a few miles east of the Okanogan County line. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. This high-elevation (3,641 feet) lake is stocked annually with rainbow trout fry. An improved Forest Service campground is located on the east shore. Motorized boats are not allowed.

Trout Lake (8 acres): Eight miles west of Kettle Falls, at the southeast end of Hoodoo Canyon in Colville National Forest, at 3,000 feet elevation. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Internal combustion engines are prohibited by Ferry County ordinance. Rainbow trout fry are stocked to give anglers some nice-size trout early on. There is a primitive boat launch at the Forest Service campground.

Ward lakes (7 acres total): These two small lakes are 9½ miles north of Republic at 3,625 feet elevation in the Bacon creek drainage. They are part of the Colville National Forest. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Internal combustion engines are prohibited by Ferry County ordinance. Spring angling action should be good for eastern brook trout if winterkill is not a problem.

FRANKLIN COUNTY

Clark Pond (49.3 acres): About five miles southwest of Mesa, on the north side of Ironwood Road. Open season is year-round. This pond contains largemouth bass, crappie and perch.

Columbia River, Pools and Sloughs: This area offers good fishing for smallmouth bass, walleye, whitefish, white sturgeon, steelhead, and salmon. The Hanford Reach from the old Hanford site upstream to the Hwy 24 bridge (Vernita) is closed to all angling from October 23 through January 31 annually. The walleye population appears to be on the rise as the catch has improved in recent years. Sturgeon fishing has been fair throughout this portion of the Columbia and is currently open year around for retention. Fall Chinook salmon return to the Hanford Reach area from August through November; the population is currently on the decline. . Due to a gap in Ringold hatchery production, the Ringold-area spring chinook bank fishery is not expected to open in 2009. Steelhead fishing opens annually on October 1 and is open from Highway 395 upstream to the old Hanford town site wooden power line towers. Only hatchery steelhead identified by a missing adipose fin and healed scar can be kept and only adipose and right ventral fin clipped steelhead may be kept in this area of the Columbia River in October. There are primitive launch facilities in the Hanford Reach at Vernita Bridge (Highway SR-24, Grant County side) and Ringold, and developed launches at Wahluke (Grant County), Leslie Groves Park (Richland), and Columbia Point Park (Richland). Be sure to check the latest regulations and emergency measures for additional salmon fishing opportunities or early closures to protect sturgeon and salmon.

Dalton Lake (60 acres): Located about five miles northeast of Ice Harbor Dam, on the north side of the Snake River, this body of water has a year-round open season. This narrow lake is planted in late winter with catchable-size rainbow trout. Trout fishing is good but short-lived with few trout caught after June 1. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, perch, black crappie and bullhead catfish are also present. Public access including a boat launch is provided by the Army Corps of Engineers and is located at the end of Herman Road, off Pasco-Kahlotus Road.

Emma Lake (20 acres): Near the town of Page, about seven miles northeast of Ice Harbor Dam, this body of water has a year-round open fishing season. This railroad-fill lake has largemouth and smallmouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch and bullhead catfish. Access is from Murphy Road, off Pasco-Kahlotus Road.

Marmes Pond (3 acres): Located near the Palouse River mouth, this body of water has a year-round open fishing season. This small pond is stocked with rainbow trout in March and occasionally provides some larger trout (carryovers from the previous year). The lake can be reached by boat from the Palouse River or a short hike from Lyons Ferry Park.  

Mesa Lake (50 acres): Located about one mile southwest of Mesa, off of Langford Road, this body of water has a year-round open fishing season. This lake contains warm water species, including largemouth bass, black crappie, yellow perch, walleye and bullhead catfish.

Powerline (Barker) Lake (50 acres): On WDFW managed Windmill Ranch Unit, eight miles northwest of Mesa; this body of water has a year-round open fishing season. Good fishing for largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, and rainbow trout. Designated parking area and walk-in access only (approximately 1.5 mile hike). Statewide rules apply. Parking area is located at the end of Merion Road from Highway 17.

Scooteney Reservoir (685 acres): Situated about nine miles southeast of Othello, west of Highway SR-17, this body of water has a year-round open fishing season. Smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, bluegill, crappie, and yellow perch produce good action throughout the year. The lake has a large population of lake whitefish that largely goes unfished. This lake is popular for ice fishing when conditions allow. The Bureau of Reclamation campground has a developed access area with boat launch, a small dock, and toilets. In 2009, the walleye minimum size will be decreased from 16” to 12” to allow greater harvest of abundant walleye in the 12-16” size range that would otherwise be lost to the fishery when sexually mature walleye over 12” leave the reservoir via the irrigation canal outlet to spawn and cannot return to the lake (one-way fish passage).

Snake River: Refer to Garfield County.

Worth Lake (10 acres): Located just four miles northwest of Mesa, this body of water has a year-round open fishing season. This small lake has a variety of warm water fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, yellow perch, and bullhead catfish.

GARFIELD COUNTY

Caseys Pond: This little pond off the Snake River is open to fishing year-round. It gets a small plant of 500 catchable-size (8-12 inch) rainbow trout sometime in April. This will provide for some early season action only.

Pataha Creek: This location is no longer stocked with hatchery fish. The upper portion near Columbia Center has naturally-produced brook trout. This is open to juveniles only within the Pomeroy city limits, with selective gear rules upstream from Pomeroy. The season is open starting June 1^st and runs through October 31^st.

Snake River: This is a major year-round fishery that forms the county line for several southeast counties. Hatcheries provide annual steelhead and salmon smolts that are part of the mitigation plan in compensation of the dams found along its course. *NOTE: Snake River Confluence Protection Area – effective in 2007-08 fishing season, waters of the Columbia River from the railroad bridge between Burbank and Kennewick upstream approximately 2.1 miles from the first powerline crossing upstream of the navigation light on the point of Sacajawea State park. Daily limits, season restrictions, and gear restrictions are the same as those in the adjacent area of the Snake River. Boat launches, campsites and picnic areas are available near some of the dams and along the shorelines. Check with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers office in Walla Walla for more specific information about these. Hatchery programs have made some section of the Snake among the best steelhead rivers in the state. Anglers are allowed to retain three-hatchery steelhead as part o the daily limit during open steelhead seasons. The sloughs and backwaters provide excellent fishing for warm water species, particularly for channel catfish later in the summer. Smallmouth bass fishing is good throughout most of the river. Some sturgeon fishing is available. The Snake River is closed to the taking of any trout from April 1^st through June 15^th, to protect young steelhead. In addition, all steelhead must be released between June 16^th and August 31^st; all wild steelhead must be released all year. A spring Chinook salmon fishery is set for April 24^th to June 15^th for a small area around Little Goose Dam. With large numbers of spring Chinook salmon expected for 2009 watch for emergency regulations to open other areas of the Snake as well. A limited fall Chinook fishery was also held in the Little Goose area in 2008, and we hope to have or possibly expand this fishery in 2009.

GRANT COUNTY

Ancient Lake (30 acres): See Quincy Wildlife Area lakes below.

Banks Lake (27,000 acres): Stretching almost 27 miles from Coulee City in the south to Grand Coulee in the north, this large reservoir is popular with anglers pursuing many species. Smallmouth bass up to 4 pounds are plentiful along rocky shoreline areas and largemouth bass fairly abundant in the northern part and weedy bays. Effective May 1, 2006, the daily limit for smallmouth bass here increases to 10 fish, with no more than 1 over 14 inches; rules for largemouth bass are unchanged from the standard statewide slot limit. Walleye fishing is still very good. A cooperative rearing project between WDFW, an Electric City sportsmen’s group, and Coulee City Chamber of Commerce offers improved fishing for rainbow trout up to 5 pounds. Approximately 1 million kokanee have been stocked annually in recent years, some of which the net pens also help raise. Angling for kokanee up to 19 inches has been variable during mid to late summer. Chumming is permitted. Yellow perch and crappie angling is good, but bluegill fishing will be poor-to-fair. There is a 25-fish daily limit on perch to prevent over harvest of this important forage and sport fish species. Lake Whitefish are a very abundant and overlooked game fish. Several public access areas are well developed, including a Steamboat Rock State Park about mid-way up the lake, a city park at Coulee City on the south end, and several resorts at the north end. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Beda Lake (50 acres): Situated about 4 miles south of I-90 just south of Winchester Wasteway and one half-mile east of Dodson Road, Beda Lake has a year-round open fishing season. Selective gear rules and a 1-fish daily limit are in effect. Beda was last rehabilitated in 2000, and sunfish are again a problem. Fingerling trout survival has been poor, so almost 2,000 large (2 lb) rainbow trout were stocked late last fall. Over-winter survival is expected to be good and brown and tiger trout are also available in this quality water. Access is by foot only.

Billy Clapp Lake (1000 acres): Found two miles northeast of Stratford, this body of water has a year-round open season. This reservoir offers a good, but overlooked kokanee fishery. These tasty sockeye are not stocked, but drop down from Banks Lake. There is also a good fishery for 1- to 2-pound rainbow trout, and walleye fishing is fair. Access at the southwest end, on the Stratford Wildlife Area, provides a boat launch, dock, and toilets. The steep shoreline provides very little foot access so most fishing is done by boat. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Blue Lake (532 acres): North of the city of Soap Lake along the east side of Highway SR-17 and south of Park Lake in the Sun Lakes chain. Last Saturday in April through September 30 open season. This popular lake was rehabilitated in the fall of 2006 to remove perch and other warm water species. The lake was stocked with 200,000 rainbow trout fingerlings for the 2009 opener and should produce an excellent fishery for 12-inch yearlings. The catch should also include a significant number of carryovers at 15 – 17 inches. The lake has three resorts and a public access with toilets. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Blythe Lake (30 acres): Please see Seep lakes below. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Burke Lake (73 acres): Please see Quincy Wildlife Area lakes below. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Canal Lake (76 acres): Please see Seep lakes below.

Caliche Lakes: Three relatively small lakes right along I-90 and just west of the town of George, these popular lakes are open March 1 through July 30. Only Upper Caliche was heavily stocked (4,000 half-pound rainbow) for the 2009 fishery. Early season limits should be plentiful, but the fishery only lasts a month or so.

Columbia Basin Hatchery Creek: This small creek by Columbia Basin Hatchery near the city of Moses Lake receives plants of rainbow trout spring through mid-summer. The creek is now open only to juveniles and disability license holders. April 1 through September 30 open season and a 3 fish daily limit. Disabled accessibility. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Columbia River: There are some smallmouth bass and walleye opportunities in Wanapum Lake and above. Refer to Benton and Franklin Counties for information on the area below Priest Rapids Dam (Hanford Reach). (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Corral Lake (80 acres): Please see Seep Lakes below. ). (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Deep Lake (107 acres): In Sun Lakes State Park north of the City of Soap Lake. Last Saturday in April through September 30 open season. This deep lake (surveyed at 115 feet) features kokanee during the late spring and summer fishery. Rainbow trout fishing has been fair early in the season for stocked catchable-size trout. A boat launch and toilets are available.

Dry Falls Lake (99 acres): Located at the base of Dry Falls about three miles west of Coulee City. April 1 through November 30 open season. Selective gear rules are in effect for all species plus a 1-fish daily limit on trout. Dry Falls had a very good season in 2008, and fishing should again be good this year for 14-inch yearling rainbow trout and carryovers to 20+ inches. Brown trout and tiger trout have also been stocked. Car-topped boats can be launched through Sun Lakes State Park, but there is no actual launch. A toilet is available.

Dusty Lake (83 acres): On the Quincy Wildlife Area. March 1 through November 30 open season. Selective gear rules are in effect for all species with a 1-fish daily harvest limit on trout. This lake was rehabilitated in the fall of 2003 to remove dace and goldfish. The rainbow trout fishery has been very good. Expect 14-inch yearlings and 16- to 22-inch carryovers. Tigerandbrown trout fingerlings were also stocked, some of which should be reaching 18-20 inches.

Evergreen Reservoir (235 acres): Located on the Quincy Wildlife Area three miles northwest of George and just south of Burke Lake this reservoir has a year-round open season. Walleye are abundant, and largemouth bass and bluegill are the other main warm water species. Tiger muskies are present with a 50-inch minimum size and 1-fish daily limit for this sparsely stocked species. Access to the west end, with a good boat launch, is off of Road 5 NW, also known as White Trail Road, but this access is closed to vehicles in the fall. The east side of the reservoir can be accessed through the Quincy Wildlife Area off of Road 3 NW ). (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

"H" Lake (7 acres): Please see Quincy Wildlife Area lakes below.

Hampton lakes, Upper (53 acres) and Lower (19 acres): On the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge eight miles north of Othello. April 1 through September 30 open season. Both Upper and Lower Hampton and associated drainages, including the Pillar-Widgeon chain of lakes to the north, were rehabilitated in the fall of 2004 to curtail populations of sunfish and perch. Fingerling rainbow trout were stocked in all these waters, and the 2009 opening-day fishery should be good in Upper Hampton and fair in Lower Hampton. Access to Lower Hampton is via a spur off of Seep Lakes Road. Small boats can be launched on Lower Hampton, but internal combustion engines are prohibited. Upper Hampton and the Pillar-Widgeon lakes (see separate listing, below) have walk-in access only.

Heart Lake (26 acres): Please see Seep lakes below.

Lenice Lake (94 acres), Merry Lake (40 acres), and Nunnally Lake (120 acres): These three adjacent lakes are in the Crab Creek Wildlife Area just east of Beverly. All three lakes have selective gear rules for all species, with a 1-fish daily limit on trout. Open season is March 1 to November 30. Sunfish populations have again expanded tremendously since the 2000 rehabilitation, reducing fingerling survival. Lenice and Nunnally each received about 4,000 large (2 lb.) rainbows last fall 2008, and over-winter survival is expected to be good. Carryovers from past stocking of triploids should provide rainbow to more than 20 inches. Tiger trout have also been stocked, and a several state records (over six pounds!) for this hybrid have come from Lenice. Access to Lenice is on foot (one-half mile walk) with toilets at the parking area. Foot access to Merry is from the Lenice parking area. Two access trails and parking areas for Nunnally are located at the west end and mid-lake.

Lenore Lake (1,670 acres): Two miles north of the town of Soap Lake along the west side of Highway SR-17. March 1 through November 30 open season. Selective gear rules apply for the entire open season. Fishing is catch-and-release only from March 1 through May 31, and a 1-trout daily limit during the June 1 – November 30 season. Anglers should check the regulations pamphlet and also note posted closed areas at the north and south ends. While angling in 2007 and 2008 was a bit slow, no sign of any die-off was observed. Two- to four-pound Lahontan cutthroat trout are abundant with trophy fish up to ten pounds. Lenore can be a slow starter in March, but the fishery picks up in April and remains good through May. The fall fishery has also been especially good in November. There are four access areas, three rough boat launches, and toilets. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Long Lake: Please Soda Lake below. ). (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Lower Goose Lake (50 acres): Please see Seep lakes below.

Martha Lake: This relatively small lake right along I-90 and just east of the town of George is among the most popular lakes in the March 1 Opener group of waters. For the 2009 fishery, Martha received 8,000 half-pound rainbows. Early season limits should be plentiful, but the fishery only lasts a month or so.

Merry Lake: Please see Lenice Lake above.

Moses Lake (6,800 acres): Located in its namesake town, this body of water has a year-round open season. Biological surveys continue to indicate an overabundance of walleye plus plentiful smallmouth bass. The walleye rule changed two years ago to a daily limit of 8 (eight) fish, minimum size 12 inches, no more than one over 22 inches; the smallmouth bass rule changed to daily limit 10 fish, no minimum size, no more than 1 fish over 14 inches; largemouth bass rule changed to standard statewide (slot) limit; crappie rule changed to daily limit 10 fish, minimum size nine (9) inches; and the yellow perch rule changes to daily limit 25, no minimum size. (Note: revised Moses Lake daily and possession limits also apply to the area from Grant County Road 7 downstream to the fountain buoy and shoreline markers, or 150 feet downstream from the Alder Street Fill.). This is among the best walleye fisheries in the state, especially in April and May, and again in the fall. The Crab Creek Inlet from just below Alder Street upstream to Grant County Road 7 and outlets downstream of Moses Lake to their confluence with Potholes Reservoir, have gear restrictions (one single-hook with ¾” gape) from March 1 through May 31 to prevent snagging of spawning walleyes. Largemouth bass and crappie fishing is improving. Yellow perch have been inconsistent. Bluegill fishing will still be poor and this species will retain the current 8-inch minimum size, 5-fish daily limit. A volunteer cooperative net-pen project provides angling for rainbow trout but trout angling has been sporadic as of late, probably due to predation by fish and birds. An annual “Fishing Kids” derby, to be held at Cascade Park on June 13^th this year introduces youth ages 5 to 14 to sport fishing. For more information contact Moses Lake Parks at (509) 766-9240. There are several public boat launches; two with public facilities. Disabled accessibility is available at the North access point. ). (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Nunnally Lake: See Lenice Lake above.

Para-Juvenile Lake (12 acres): This small Columbia National Wildlife Refuge Lake is shared by Grant and Adams Counties and is open to juveniles only. Please see the listing in Adams County for more information.

Park Lake (346 acres): North of the City of Soap Lake in Sun Lakes State Park. Last Saturday in April through September 30 open season. This popular lake was rehabilitated last fall 2006 to remove perch and other warm water species. The lake was stocked with over 100,000 rainbow trout fingerlings for the 2009 opener and should produce an excellent fishery for 12-inch yearlings. The catch should also include a significant number of carryovers at 15 – 17 inches. In addition to the state park, there is a resort.

Perch Lake (16 acres): In Sun Lakes State Park. Last Saturday in April through September 30 open season. This small lake should provide good fishing for 12-inch yearling rainbow trout. Because it’s small and receives intense pressure, catch rates will drop off markedly after the first few weeks of the season.

Pillar-Widgeon chain of lakes: On the Columbia National Wildlife Refuge eight miles north of Othello. April 1 through September 30 open season. This chain of 10 relatively small, walk-in only waters offers anglers a chance to explore the channeled scab lands while fishing lake to lake for rainbow trout. Fingerling rainbow trout were stocked in all, and yearling generally run about 10-12 inches and carryovers can be up to 20 inches. Parking and access is just south of the Soda Lake dam.

Ping Pond (formerly Oasis Park Pond): This small pond on the south side of Ephrata is open only to juveniles (under 15 years of age) and persons with a reduced-fee disability license. This lake has a third Saturday in April through Labor day (September 1^st) fishery. Opening day boasts a well attended kid’s derby. There is a 5-fish harvest limit, all game fish species combined.

Potholes Reservoir (23,000 acres): Located about seven miles south of the town of Moses Lake backed up by O’Sullivan Dam, this body of water has a year-round open fishing season. The results of annual surveys indicate an abundance of walleye and a plentiful supply of smallmouth bass. The daily limit for walleye is eight (8) fish; with a 12-inch minimum size and no more than one over 22 inches. The rule for smallmouth bass changes to a daily limit 10 fish, no minimum size and no more than one over 14 inches. A gear restriction (one hook with a maximum ¾ inch gap – see Crab Creek listing in Fishing regulations pamphlet for more details) remains in effect for the Crab Creek Inlet (from Moses Lake outlets to the confluence of the outlet streams) from March 1 through May 31, and is designed to prevent snagging of spawning walleyes. Fishing will also be excellent for largemouth bass; daily limit 5, no minimum size, only Bass less than 12 inches may be retained, with no more than one (1) over 17-inches. Yellow perch, crappie, and bluegill populations remain at less than historic levels. Bluegill and crappie have a combined daily limit of 25 fish, with a 9-inch minimum size limit on crappie. Yellow perch also have a 25-fish limit (separate from the combined bluegill/crappie limit). The best time for warmwater species is in mid-summer through fall. The main reservoir and Lind Coulee arm are popular for fishing through ice in years when it is thick enough. The reservoir also produces fishing for rainbow trout as a result of production from a volunteer cooperative net-pen rearing project; however, predation has limited survival. A large private resort, a state park, and several developed public access areas provide all necessary amenities for this large reservoir. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Quincy Lake (43 acres): Please see Quincy Wildlife Area lakes below. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Quincy Wildlife Area lakes: Located southwest of the town of Quincy off Road 5 NW. Refer to a separate listing for Evergreen Reservoir and Dusty Lake. Quincy and Burke Lakes were rehabilitated in the fall of 2005 and both waters produce nice sized (12-15 inch) rainbow trout for opening day. In addition, Quincy Lake received an additional 4,000 half-pound rainbow. Both Quincy and Burke are open March 1 through July 31. In addition to the west end access, Burke can be accessed on the east end through the Quincy Wildlife Area off of Road 3 NW. The small seep lakes below Quincy and Burke will offer fair rainbow fishing this year. Stan Coffin, “H”, and part of the Ancient lakes provide a warm water fishery primarily for bass and bluegill. All three are open year-round. Stan Coffin features the only catch and release bass fishery in the state and has a very high density of largemouth bass. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Rocky Ford Creek: Flowing into the north end of Moses Lake, this is one of the premier small fly-fishing streams in the Northwest. It is open year-round to catch-and-release, fly-fishing only, and bank angling only (no wading). Anglers can expect rainbow trout over 24 inches. The upper mile is on WDFW land and offers the best fishing. The lower 2-mile stretch meanders across state land and is less crowded. Fish densities are lower, but there are some nice rainbows in this stretch. The middle three miles are on private land and are not accessible. An access area near the headwater springs has toilets. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information)

Seep lakes (located south of Potholes Reservoir and north of Othello): Most of these waters have year around seasons, however, anglers should check the latest regulations pamphlet for specific lake seasons. Most of these waters are stocked annually with rainbow trout. Corral, Blythe, and Chukar lakes, all with year-round open season, were rehabilitated fall 2007; only Corral will have carryovers in 2009. Windmill, Canal, Heart, all with year-round open season, have burgeoning sunfish populations, but all were stocked with catchables for the 2009 season. Trout fishing in Herman and Lyle Lakes (both in Adams County) and the Teal lakes also suffers from populations of undesirable species; their season runs April 1 through September 30. Upper Goose Lake has been stocked the last few years, and catches of 12” rainbow were good in 2007 and 2008. Lower Goose Lake is managed as a warmwater fishery and has a 9-inch minimum size, 10-fish limit on crappie plus a bluegill regulation during its year-round season. Also check out some of the many smaller, out-of-the-way lakes in this same area. These are walk-in lakes at distances of ¼ to 1¼ miles from parking. Larger lakes have boat launches and some of these are equipped with toilet facilities. Please refer to separate descriptions for Upper and Lower Hampton Lakes and Warden Lake. For a map to help navigate the myriad lakes and canals in this area, contact Columbia National Wildlife Refuge headquarters at PO Drawer F, Othello, WA 99334; phone (509) 488-2668.

Soda Lake (180 acres) and Long Lake (75 acres): On the Potholes Canal below Potholes Reservoir. Both lakes are open to fishing year-round and should provide good fishing for walleye and bass, but rainbow trout and yellow perch angling has only been fair. Soda offers good lake whitefish catches in late fall and winter, and several large rainbow trout (5-8 pounds!) are taken here each year. There are two access areas, one with toilets.

Stan Coffin Lake (41 acres): Please refer to listing for Quincy Wildlife Area lakes above. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information)

Teal lakes (North Teal 22 acres, South Teal 28 acres): Please see Seep lakes above.

Vic Meyers (Rainbow) Lake (8 acres): In Sun Lakes State Park. Last Saturday in April through September 30 open season. Vic Meyer was rehabilitated last fall 2006. The lake was stocked in with rainbow, brown, and tigertrout fingerlings for the 2009 opener and should produce an excellent fishery for 12-inch yearlings and carryovers.

Warden Lake (211 acres): About five miles east of O’Sullivan Dam just south of Road 7 SE. Last Saturday in April through September 30 open season. Rainbow and brown trout fingerlings are stocked annually, and fair catches of 12-16 inch fish can be expected for the 2009 season. An access with parking, toilets, and a rough launch is available at the north end, and a resort at the north end has recently reopened. Access at the south end off of Seep Lakes Road is for shore angling only. Please respect adjacent private property. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Windmill Lake (34 acres): Please see Seep lakes above.

GRAYS HARBOR COUNTY

Aberdeen Lake (63 acres): About three miles east of Aberdeen, just north of Highway US-12. Open season runs from the last Saturday in April to October 31, and season may modify if surplus adult steelhead become available. Fishing should be good for 10- to 11- inch rainbow trout with good numbers of some much larger fish available, including some triploid rainbows that average 1.5 to 2 pounds each, and “quality trout” reared through a cooperative project with Elma Game Club and WDFW, that average 4-6 pounds. Some of these rainbow trout selectively reared and planted weigh more than 10 pounds each. If you are lucky enough to hook one, and can land it, these are very large, beautiful rainbows. Aberdeen Lake (also known as Lake Aberdeen) will be crowded on opening day. Access is through a city park. There is a rough gravel launch on the SW side of the lake. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Chehalis River: The Chehalis is a popular river system for spring and fall Chinook, coho and chum salmon, steelhead and sturgeon. All wild steelhead must be released. At 28^th Street Landing just west of the port of Grays Harbor dock in Hoquiam, coho returning from a net-pen rearing project provide additional recreational fishing opportunity. Check the current regulations pamphlet for information on salmon and steelhead seasons and area boundaries. Single-point barbless hooks are required for all species from August 16 through November 30. The river is open year-round, 24 hours a day for sturgeon. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Chehalis River: At Friend’s Landing- Level 1; DP, WCT, fishing shelters, boat launch, paved and packed gravel trails, boat floats, fish pier on river, totally accessible facility. See also Quigg Lake. For more information on Friend’s Landing, call Grays Harbor Trout Unlimited at (360) 533-4648. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Chehalis River - potholes: These waters south of Highway US-12 and adjacent to the Chehalis River contain largemouth bass, perch and trout. Winter floods mix fish, making for interesting catches. Open season is last Saturday in April to October 31. (Note: the regulation for the “potholes” does not include Chehalis River sloughs and adjacent beaver pond, these areas open June 1 in conjunction with stream regulations.) Access is through private property, so be sure to check with the landowner first.

Chehalis Wildlife Area ponds: This is a series of mostly unnamed sloughs and ponds on the Chehalis Wildlife Area are off Schouweiler Road, a couple miles southwest of Elma. The area is bordered by Hwy US-12 on the north side, Newman Creek on the west, and Vance Creek on the south. Largemouth bass, crappie and some cutthroat trout are available thanks to periodic flooding by the nearby Chehalis River. Easy access on gravel walking paths makes this a good place to take small children when not flooded. The ponds are open to fishing year-round, but not always easily accessible. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Cloquallum Creek: This small stream is best fished from shore, with access points along Cloquallum Road. It has winter steelhead and anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat. All wild steelhead must be released. Minimum size for trout is 14 inches, with a 2-fish daily limit. Check the regulations pamphlet for seasons and area boundaries.

County ponds: Many smaller ponds (including beaver ponds, etc.) throughout the county were planted in the past with cutthroat trout. The ponds are no longer planted. But there may be some resident cutthroat trout in ponds that have inlet or outlet stream with suitable spawning areas. Be familiar with regulations regarding these ponds and how they are constructed as beaver ponds and non-beaver (created) ponds may have different fishing seasons by description in the Fishing in Washington regulations pamphlet.

Duck Lake (450 acres): Located near Ocean Shores has a year-round open season. Duck Lake offers fair fishing for stocked rainbow trout, and good fishing for largemouth bass, black crappie and bluegill. There is a 10-fish limit and 9-inch minimum size limit on crappie. Parking and boat launches are available, maintained and patrolled by the city of Ocean Shores.

Failor Lake (65 acres): Nine miles north of Hoquiam, with public access off Highway US-101 via logging roads. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Anglers should find good fishing for stocked 10 to 12 inch rainbow trout, and some opportunity for resident cutthroat trout. Some of these rainbow trout selectively reared and planted into Failor weigh more than 10 pounds each. If you are lucky enough to hook one, and can land it, these are very large, beautiful rainbows. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Grays Harbor: Watch for salmon fishing opportunity in Marine Area 1.2. Access points are at Westport, 28^th Street Landing, and the launch at Johns River. Coho salmon reared in Net pens located in Westport Harbor can provide a unique terminal area fishery during peak return timing in the fall. (See Westport) (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Hoquiam River; All forks: Winter steelhead, Chinook, chum and coho salmon and anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat trout are available. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the current regulations pamphlet for information on seasons and open area boundaries. A canoe-type craft may help access difficult areas, but caution should be used in these rivers. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Humptulips River: This popular coastal river fishery includes winter and summer steelhead, anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat, fall Chinook, coho and chum salmon. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the current regulations pamphlet for information on seasons, limits and area boundaries. Bank and boat access is available at several sites, with restrooms. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Johns River: This popular coastal river fishery includes winter and summer steelhead, anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat, fall Chinook, coho and chum salmon. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the current regulations pamphlet for information on seasons, limits and area boundaries. Bank and boat access is available at several sites, with restrooms. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Klone Lakes: These three small lakes in beautiful surroundings above Wynoochee Reservoir range in size from two to nine acres. Planted with trout every three to four years, they require some effort to reach. Year-round open season, but elevation (all about 3,200 feet) and snow levels usually keep them inaccessible part of the year.

Mill Creek Pond: (near Cosmopolis, in Grays Harbor County) is dewatered , The structure that held water in the pond failed this past winter, and no permit has been issued to repair it at this time. It will NOT be planted with trout in 2009.

Ocean beaches: Excellent razor clam digging and surf perch fishing opportunities range from Ocean Shores north to Moclips. Crabbing in beach lagoons is popular during the late spring and summer months. Seasons change frequently, so contact the WDFW Region 6 office at Montesano (phone numbers are inside the front cover) for the most current information, or call the Shellfish Hotline at 1-866-880-5431. There are numerous beach access sites for visitors.

Quigg Lake (32 acres): Located at Friend’s Landing, about three miles southwest of Montesano (see Chehalis River above). June 1 through April 15 open season, with special size restrictions. Check the current regulations pamphlet for size and catch limits and information on salmon seasons. Some warm water fish are present, plus opportunity for sea-run cutthroat. Coho returning from net-pen rearing project also provide recreational fishing. All wild steelhead must be released. Public access with a rough boat launch is available, plus fishing platforms and a blacktop trail along or near the lakeshore. This is a redeveloped site with diverse recreational opportunities.

Satsop lakes: About three miles east of Wynoochee Reservoir, just across the line from Mason County. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. These small lakes at about 2,200 feet elevation provide fishing for small rainbow trout following a pleasant walk through large timber. Cutthroat trout fry were planted in these lakes in 2006.

Satsop River, including East Fork: This lower Chehalis River tributary is known for producing large fish. Winter steelhead, Chinook, coho and chum salmon, and anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat are available from the mouth to the bridge at Schafer State Park. All wild steelhead must be released, along with all adult Chinook from October 1 through January 31. Upper areas above Schafer Park have resident and anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat, with a minimum size of 14 inches, and are ideal canoe water; rubber rafts may puncture on dense brush (some area may require “wet” portages due to dense debris). Night closure and single point barbless hooks are required for all species from August 16 through November 30. Check the current regulations pamphlet for information on fishing seasons, limit and area boundaries. Public access with boat launches available at Schafer State Park, with a steep, rough gravel launch on the West Fork Satsop, just upstream from the confluence of the East and West forks. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Streams: Many streams in Grays Harbor County have special size, bag limit, and gear regulations to protect juvenile salmonids from harvest until they mature. Check the regulations pamphlet for specific details. Bait fishing restrictions increase survival of released fish and ultimately improve stream fishing. Circle and barbless single hooks may also improve survival.

Sylvia Lake (32 acres): Located approximately one mile north of Montesano, this body of water has a year-round fishing season. Good spring, early summer and fall fishing for 9- to 10-inch rainbow trout, with larger rainbows and resident cutthroat available. The first fish stocking typically occurs in mid to late March. This popular lake receives additional trout for Free Fishing Weekend (in June, 2009 - dates are the 6^th and 7^th), and plants in April, May and September. Additionally, “quality trout” reared through a cooperative project with Elma Game Club and WDFW that average 4-6 pounds each are also planted in the lake. Some of these rainbow trout selectively reared and planted weigh more than 10 pounds each. If you are lucky enough to hook one, and can land it, these are very large beautiful rainbows. Surplus adult hatchery steelhead may periodically be available also and are placed into this body of water to add to the potential excitement. These steelhead count as part of the daily trout limit, and a catch record card is not required to take them. There is good access through a state park. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Vance Creek (Elma) ponds: Across Highway US-12 from Elma. Last Saturday in April through November 30 open season. Pond #1 (the first pond on the north side of the access road) is open only to juveniles, seniors, and holders of disability license. Pond #2 is open to all properly licensed anglers. These small ponds are planted with 10 to 14 inch rainbow trout in April and May. “Quality Trout” that averages 4-6 pounds each, reared through a cooperative project with Elma Game Club and WDFW, are also planted into both ponds. Some of these rainbow trout, selectively reared, are also planted that weigh more than 10 pounds each. If you are lucky enough to hook one, and can land it, these are very large beautiful rainbows. Surplus adult hatchery steelhead are also planted when available. Landlocked salmon rules apply and a catch record card is not required. However, all steelhead caught and retained count as part of the trout daily limit. Some largemouth bass are also present, and fishing improves for these fish as the waters warm in the summer. These ponds offer diverse recreational, and are popular with swimmers after waters warm up.

Westport: A large charter fleet is available for salmon and bottom fish. Coho salmon from a net-pen rearing project provide recreational fishing within the Westport Boat Basin. Other popular activities in this area include surf fishing, crabbing and whale watching. (See also Grays Harbor)

Westport Jetty: The south Grays Harbor jetty provides angling access to salmon, crabs, rockfish, lingcod and other bottom fish. To find out more about this type of fishing, please contact the Department of Fish and Wildlife and request a copy of the pamphlet Coastal Washington Jetty and Surf Fishing. This publication is dated but information is still current. To check on shellfish and crab seasons and emergency closures, call the toll-free Shellfish Hotline at 1-866-880-5431.

Wishkah River: Winter steelhead, coho salmon, and anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat trout are available, as are several miles of canoe-water. All wild steelhead must be released. Season, size, bag limit and gear restrictions are in effect; check the current regulations pamphlet for specific details, area boundaries and season changes. The mainstem from the dam at Wishkah rearing ponds downstream to 400 feet below the outlet is closed to all fishing. There is a public access with a rough launch near Greenwood, and several rough launches along Wishkah Road, below Aberdeen Gardens.

Wynoochee Reservoir: About 25 miles northwest of Shelton. June 1 through October 31 open season. Trout and whitefish provide action for anglers on this Wynoochee River impoundment. There is a 12-inch minimum size, two-fish catch limit on trout. The Forest Service campground has toilets and boat launch.

Wynoochee River: Winter steelhead, Chinook, chum and coho salmon, and resident and anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat are available. Public access with toilets and concrete plank boat launch at White Bridge (old county road crossing), and launch with no restrooms at Black Creek, in the lower Wynoochee area. Bank access is fair in select areas of the valley. Take care not to trespass on posted open lands. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for information on seasons, gear restrictions, size and catch limits. Above the 7400 Line Bridge selective gear rules are in effect during all open seasons, except that two-hatchery steelhead may be retained. Fishing is also open above the reservoir up to the base of the Wynoochee Falls during the winter seasons. Fishing from any floating devices is prohibited in all areas above the 7400 Bridge. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

ISLAND COUNTY

Camp Grande: Located at the north end of Camano Island, this area offers the most famous of the “classic” surf smelt fishing opportunities. Most of the area is private, but public access is available at Maple Grove County Park. Surf smelt are taken by rake, from June through October.

Cavelero Beach: There are many potential sites for taking surf smelt on Camano Island’s eastern shore between Triangle Cove and Camano Head. Best opportunity is June through October.

Cornet Bay State Park: Located just east of the Deception Pass bridge, the state park’s dock offers jigging opportunities for surf smelt and herring. A concrete boat ramp provides boating access to prime salmon, bottomfish and crabbing areas in season. Coupeville Waterfront: The Coupeville waterfront plus the shoreline to the east and west offer surf-smelt opportunities from June through October.

Cranberry Lake (128 acres): In Deception Pass State Park. Year-round open season. Stocked rainbow and brown trout, plus largemouth bass and yellow perch are present in the lake. Trout fishing should be fair-to-good, with some larger carry-overs caught during the early winter to early spring months. A few brown trout may also be available from prior year’s plants. Catchable-size trout are stocked in the spring on a varying schedule to minimize bird predation, a major problem. Access is through the park main entrance. There is a fishing pier on the east shore, and a small, undeveloped gravel boat launch on the northwest corner of the lake. Internal combustion engines are not allowed.

Deer Lake (82 acres): One mile west of Clinton on Whidbey Island. Last Saturday in April through October 31, opening day season or fishing season (whichever you think is the best wording). Fishing is usually good to very good for stocked catchable-size rainbow trout early in the season. Patient anglers who are willing to invest some time can catch carry-over rainbows or cutthroat ranging from 13 to 15 inches. Deer Lake has a WDFW access on the northeast corner of the lake with a gravel boat ramp and parking area.

Goss Lake (55 acres): Three miles west of Langley on Whidbey Island. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Expect fair-to-good fishing for stocked catchable-size rainbow trout and an occasional cutthroat. . The WDFW access on the east end of the lake consists of a sand/gravel boat ramp and parking area.

Island County shore fishing: There is an expanding recreational fishery along Island County shorelines casting for pink salmon (odd years), coho salmon, and steelhead. Popular areas include, but are not limited to: the Deception Pass area: Hoypus Point, Ala Spit and West Beach; Whidbey Island south shore: Admiralty head, Admiralty Beach, Lagoon Point, South Whidbey State Park and Bush Point; Possession Point Beach on Whidbey Island’s southeast shore; and Camano State Park on Camano Island.

Lone Lake (92 acres): Occupying a broad meadow area 2-1/2 miles southwest of Langley on Whidbey Island, Lone Lake is managed as a quality fishing water with selective gear rules in effect, except electric motors are allowed. Daily trout limit is one fish, with a minimum size of 18 inches. Year-round open fishing season. A mix of stocked catchable-size rainbow trout and larger triploid rainbows augment the trout carry-over population. Anglers use large-fish methods here: leech wet fly patterns, and large lures. A bloodworm pattern is often effective in February and early March. Introduced largemouth bass, yellow perch and brown bullhead catfish compete for habitat and forage. They are regulated under statewide rules for size and daily limits, but selective gear rules still apply (i.e.; no bait, unscented lures only, and single barbless hooks only). A large WDFW access on the north shore has a concrete boat ramp, parking area and toilets.

Marine fish and shellfish: Piers and docks for saltwater fishing can be found at Cornet Bay State Park, Coupeville, Kayak Point County Park, Langley and Oak Harbor (Flintstone Park). Oak Harbor marina provides a fair-to-good smelt jigging fishery. Popular surf smelt dip net fishing beaches include Cavelero Beach County Park, southeast Penn Cove (Coupeville to Long Point), and Utsalady. Utsalady is also a very popular crabbing site. Good shrimp and crab fishing exists throughout Port Susan and Saratoga Pass. Popular Whidbey Island clamming includes Freeland County Park, North Penn Cove, and the naval Air Station’s Maylor Point near Oak Harbor. To check on shellfish and crab seasons and emergency closures, call the toll-free Shellfish Hotline at 1-866-880-5431.

Penn Cove: The beach located on the southwest shore of Penn Cove on Whidbey Island has been enhanced with Pacific oysters. It is accessible by boat, with launches in Coupeville and at Penn Cove Park on the north shore. To check on shellfish seasons and emergency closures, call the toll-free Shellfish Hotline at 1-866-880-5431.

JEFFERSON COUNTY

Anderson Lake (68 acres): Located about a mile west of Chimacum. Fishing season starts the last Saturday in April through October 31^st with standard statewide minimum size and catch limits In the fall, Catch-and-release only with selective gear rules are in effect from September 1^st through October 31st. Internal combustion engines are prohibited all year. This lake is excellent to outstanding for rainbows averaging almost 12 inches, with some carry-over in the three-pound range. A boat launch and good bank fishing access are available on Anderson Lake State Park land. The lake has been closed the past two years beginning about mid-June due to toxic bluegreen algae blooms. The lake is being monitored annually now by the Jefferson County Health Department. It is recommended to fish the lake early in the season due to another potential early closure this season. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information)

Beach Accesses #4 and #6, and Ruby Beach: Dipping spawning surf smelt in high surf is a change from the usual Puget Sound surf smelt dipping. Most activity occurs May through September. The area north of Kalaloch is most popular. Some surfperch are also taken.

Clearwater River: Several boat and bank access site along the Clearwater provide access to good salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat fishing. Check the current fishing regulations pamphlet for seasons, open areas and daily limits. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Devil's Lake (12 acres): Two miles south of Quilcene last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. This small lake has good fishing for cutthroat up to 11 inches. Access is hike-in only.

Gibbs Lake (37 acres): Located approximately three miles southwest of Chimacum, this body of water has a year-round open season. Selective gear rules are in effect for all species; electric motors are allowed. Trout fishing is catch-and-release only. Standard statewide size and limits are in effect for other species, which include largemouth bass and brown bullhead catfish. Gibbs is also scheduled for a bonus plant of larger triploid rainbow trout this year. This lake is under Jefferson County Park’s jurisdiction, with limited access and no developed boat launch.

Hoh River: Several boat and bank access site along the Hoh and South Fork Hoh rivers provide access to good-to-excellent salmon and steelhead fishing. Effective in 2006, the daily limit for hatchery steelhead downstream of the Oxbow campground from November 1 through February 15 changes to three fish. Check the current WDFW fishing regulations pamphlet for areas outside Olympic National Park. For areas within the park, call Olympic National Park headquarters at (360) 452-4501 or check regulations on the Internet at www.nps.gov/olym/regs/fishregs.htm. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Hood Canal shellfish: Recreational shrimp and crab harvesting opportunities are present throughout Hood Canal. Please consult the WDFW toll-free Shellfish Hotline at 1-866-880-5431 or the department’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/shelfish/crabreg for specific seasons. For clam and oyster seasons and closures, check the Shellfish Hotline or the website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/shelfish/beachreg, or the Fishing in Washington sport fishing rules pamphlet. Call the Department of Health’s toll-free Biotoxin Hotline at 1-800-562-5632 to check on shellfish safety.

Horseshoe Lake (13 acres): Four miles southwest of Port Ludlow. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Selective gear rules are in effect for all species, plus a one-trout daily limit. Fishing should be good for stocked rainbow trout averaging nine to 11 inches. Horseshoe is also scheduled to receive a bonus plant of larger triploid rainbows this year. Horseshoe Lake is only accessible via private roads on Olympic Resources property, however, the gates are usually open throughout the entire fishing season and/or it is a scenic walk into the lake.

Leland Lake (100 acres): Located about five miles north of Quilcene on Highway US-101, this body of water has a year-round open season. Good fishing for stocked rainbows up to 12-inches in length during the fall, winter and spring, with good largemouth bass, bluegill and crappie fishing during warm weather. The WDFW access has a paved boat ramp and two toilets.

Ludlow Lake (16 acres): Four miles west of Port Ludlow. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Stocked with catchable-size rainbow trout in spring, Ludlow is also good for largemouth bass and brown bullhead catfish. Ludlow Lake is only accessible via private roads on Olympic Resources property; however, the gates are usually open throughout the entire fishing season.

Mystery Bay State Park: The beach at this park on the west shore of Marrowstone Island has been enhanced with Pacific oysters. There is a health closure between May 1 and October 31 each year.

Ocean beaches: Kalaloch Beach (in Olympic National Park) offers excellent razor clam and beach-combing opportunities in season. Please consult the toll-free WDFW shellfish hotline at 1-866-880-5431 or the department’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/shelfish/crabreg for specific seasons. Call the WDFW Region 6 office at Montesano or the toll-free Shellfish Hotline at 1-866-880-5431 for more information about seasons.

Puget Sound shellfish: Recreational shrimp and crab harvesting opportunities are present throughout Puget Sound. Please consult the toll-free WDFW shellfish hotline at 1-866-880-5431 or the department’s website at http://wdfw.wa.gov/fish/shelfish/crabreg for specific seasons. For clam and oyster openings, check the Shellfish Hotline or check the department’s website at http://wdfw.wa/gov/shelfish/beachreg, or the Fishing in Washington sport fishing rules pamphlet. Call the Department of Health’s toll-free Biotoxin Hotline at 1-800-562-5632 to check on shellfish safety.

Queets River: This river flows primarily within the Olympic National Park, with a small section of the lower end on Quinault Indian Reservation land. For areas within the park, call Olympic National Park headquarters at (360) 452-4501 or check regulations on the Internet at www.nps.gov/olym/regs/fishregs.htm. There are several boat and bank access sites along the river in the park. They provide access to good-to-excellent salmon and steelhead fishing.
Ruby Beach: See Beach Accesses #4 and #6. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Ruby Beach: See Beach Accesses #4 and #6. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Sandy Shore (Sandyshore) Lake (36 acres): See Beach Accesses #4 and #6. (See Washington State Parks website: http://www.parks.wa.gov/ada-rec for ADA accessibility information.)

Silent Lake (12 acres): Located about five miles southeast of Quilcene, on the east side of Dabob Bay, the season for this location is the last Saturday in April through October 31st. This small lake is stocked with catchable-size rainbow trout. Internal combustion engines are prohibited.

Tarboo Lake (24 acres): Three miles north of Quilcene. Last Saturday in April through November 30 open season. Tarboo is usually fair-to-good for nine- to 11- inch rainbows and cutthroat, with some larger carry-overs available. The state access has two toilets. Internal combustion engines are prohibited.

Teal Lake (15.3 acres): Located two miles south of Port Ludlow, Year round fishery with Selective gear rules: no internal combustion engine (motors) allowed; and a catch limit of one trout. Catchable-size and a few jumbo rainbow trout are stocked. There is a small dock that provides disabled accessibility, plus a small parking area and toilets.