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.

The wheelchair symbol indicates lakes or streams with enhanced accessibility. Go to Accessible Fishing Areas for Persons with Disabilities for an explanation of the accessibility level designations and abbreviations used in the County-by-County descriptions.

The exclamation point symbol indicates a specific fish consumption advisory for this body of water. Also refer to on Fish Consumption (Health) Advisories for more information.

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

DOUGLAS COUNTY

Columbia River:  Walleye fishing has become popular on the stretch of river bordering Douglas County. Walleye can be caught below Chief Joseph Dam, as well as most of Rufus Woods Lake.  This area also holds good numbers of both smallmouth and largemouth bass. There are good boat launching facilities at Brewster, Pateros, and Bridgeport.

Grimes Lake (124 acres): Five miles southeast of Mansfield. June 1 through August 31 open season. Selective gear rules are in effect, with a one-trout daily limit. Fishing should be good for Lahontan cutthroat trout up to 20”.  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 for the month of October. Fishing should be good for yearling rainbow trout averaging 11 inches, with carryovers to 15 inches. 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. Disabled accessibility - Level 2; Two WCTs, lgs, Blk Tpa around launch.  Campsites, toilets, and boat launching are available at both the north and south ends of Jameson Lake.

Pit Lake: This small pond in Rock Island is open to juveniles only (14 years of age and younger). Year-round open 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. Year-round open season. These waters are managed primarily for bass and bluegill. A rehabilitation was done a few years ago to remove stunted perch and sunfish that were limiting growth of bass and bluegill. Illegal re-introductions have been made, unfortunately, and bass/bluegill populations are growing slowly, but should offer limited catches of bass over 12 inches and bluegill seven to eight 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.Year round open fishing season. Walleyes, triploid rainbow trout, 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 a couple 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): Four miles northeast of Republic, along Highway SR-21. Year-round open season. Spring and early summer fishing for fryplanted 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. Tiger muskies must be released until they are 36 inches long. 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. Last Saturday in April through October open season, 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.

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 2006 was poor so trout fishing in 2007 will be poor. Ellen receives lots of fishing pressure because of a developed Forest Service campground.

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-inchers by the opener. Use of motorized boats is not allowed.

Ferry Lake (19 acres): Nine miles south of Republic, west of Highway SR-21, up Forest Road 53/Scatter Creek, at 3329 feet elevation in Colville National Forest. Year-round open season. Annual plants of fry and catchable-size rainbow trout keep this lake a useable fishery, despite frequent winter kills. 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.

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.

Long Lake (14 acres): About eleven miles southwest of Republic, in the Scatter Creek drainage. In Colville National Forest, at 3,250 feet elevation. Open last Saturday in April through October 31. Fly-fishing only. Fry-planted cutthroat trout should yield some nine- to 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 brown trout catchables 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 9-1/2 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 winter-kill 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 largemouth and smallmouth bass, sunfish, crappie, and brown bullhead catfish. Channel catfish are caught throughout this area, with some six- to eight-pounders. Some walleyes are also taken. Sturgeon fishing has been fair throughout this portion of the Columbia. Fall chinook salmon return to the Hanford Reach area from September through November; salmon fishing prospects are similar to the last several years. There will not be a Ringold-area bank-fishing season for spring chinook this year, but there will be an April 1 through April 15 steelhead season. Steelhead fishing should also be good during the October 1 through March 31 season from Highway US-395 to the old Hanford townsite wooden powerline towers. Only hatchery steelhead identified by a missing adipose fin and healed scar can be kept. 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): About five miles northeast of Ice Harbor Dam, near the north side of the Snake River. Year-round open season. This narrow lake is planted in spring with catchable-size rainbow trout. Trout fishing is good but short-lived. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, perch, black crappie and bullhead catfish are also present. Access is at the end of Herman Road, off of Pasco-Kahlotus Road.

Emma Lake (20 acres): Near Page, about seven miles northeast of Ice Harbor Dam. 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, of  Pasco-Kahlotus Road.

Marmes Pond (3 acres): Near the Palouse River mouth. Year-round open fishing season. This small pond is stocked with rainbow trout in March. 

Mesa Lake (50 acres): About one mile southwest of Mesa, off of Langford Road. Year-round open fishing season. This lake contains warmwater 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. Year-round open fishing season. Good fishing for largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie and brown bullhead catfish. Designated parking area and walk-in access only (approximately 1.5 mile hike).

Railroad Pond (10 acres): Two miles northeast of Mesa. Year-round open fishing season. This small pond is managed as a quality trout fishery. Selective gear rules are in effect for all species, with a daily limit of two trout. Large trout are expected to attract anglers who enjoy catch-and-release fishing with flies and lures. Rainbow trout will run from eight to 18 inches. In addition, a bonus plant of large triploid rainbow trout is scheduled this year.

Scooteney Reservoir (685 acres): About nine miles southeast of Othello, west of Highway SR-17. Yearround open fishing season. Smallmouth and largemouth bass, walleye, crappie, and yellow perch produce good action throughout the year. Bluegill are also present. A large population of lake whitefish goes largely 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. WDFW also maintains a gravel ramp here.

Snake River: Refer to Garfield County.

Worth Lake (10 acres): Four miles northwest of Mesa. Year-round open fishing season. This small lake has a variety of warmwater fish, including largemouth bass, bluegill, black crappie, perch and bullhead catfish.

GARFIELD COUNTY

Baker Pond (1.5 acres): About 13 miles south of Pomeroy, in the Pataha Creek drainage, at 4200 feet elevation. Access is via Hwy SR-128 and Mountain Road. Open year-round, but fishing is best in spring. This small farm pond is stocked with catchable size rainbow trout, so it’s great for young anglers. Public access is through the cooperation of local farmers.

Caseys Pond: This little pond off the Snake River is open to fishing year-round. It gets a small plant of catchable-size (10-12 inch) rainbow trout that provide some early season action only.

Pataha Creek: No longer stocked, the upper portion near Columbia Center has naturally-produced brook trout. Open to juveniles only within Pomeroy city limits, with selective gear rules upstream from Pomeroy. June 1 through October 31 open season.

Snake River: This is a major year-round fishery that forms the county line for several southeast counties. Hatcheries provide annual steelhead and salmon smolt plants to compensate for dams along its course. *Note: Snake River Confluence Protection Area – waters of the Columbia River from the railroad bridge between Burbank and Kennewick upstream approximately 2.1 miles to the first powerlines crossing upstream of the navigation light on the point of Sacajewea State Park.  Daily limits, seasons, size 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 boating, camping and access. Hatchery programs have made some sections of the Snake among the best steelhead rivers in the state. Anglers are allowed to retain three hatchery steelhead as part of the daily limit during open steelhead seasons. The sloughs and backwaters provide excellent fishing for warmwater species, particularly for channel catfish later in the summer. Smallmouth bass fishing is good throughout most of the river. Some sturgeon fishing is also available. The Snake is closed to the taking of any trout from April 1 through June 15, to protect young steelhead. In addition, all steelhead must be released between June 16 and August 31, and wild steelhead must be released all year. The Snake is closed to all salmon fishing unless specifically opened under emergency regulations.

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 statewide. Year-round open fishing season. Bass fishing should be good-to-excellent, with plentiful smallmouth up to four pounds available along rocky shoreline areas, and largemouth 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 one over 14 inches; rules for largemouth bass are unchanged from the standard statewide slot limit. Walleye fishing is still 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 five pounds. Approximately one 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 very good during mid- to late-summer the past two years. Chumming is permitted. Yellow perch and crappie angling is fair,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 state park about mid-way up the lake and a city park at Coulee City on the south end.

Beda Lake (50 acres): About four miles south of I-90, just south of Winchester Wasteway and one-half mile east of Dodson Road. Year-round open fishing season.  Selective gear rules and a one-fish daily limit are in effect. Beda was last rehabilitated in 2000, and sunfish are again a problem. Pound-plus triploid rainbow trout have been stocked in April the last few years to augment rainbow, brown and tiger trout fingerling plants. Access is by foot only.

Billy Clapp Lake (1000 acres): Two miles northeast of Stratford. Year-round open season. This reservoir offers a good but overlooked kokanee fishery. These tasty freshwater sockeye are not stocked, but drop down from Banks Lake. There is a fair fishery for one to two-pound rainbow trout, and walleye fishing is also fair. Access at the southwest end, on the Stratford Wildlife Area, provides a boat launch, dock and toilets.  Limited shore access is available at Summer Falls State Park on the north end. The steep shoreline provides very little foot access, so most fishing is done by boat.

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 last fall 2006 to remove perch and other warmwater species. The lake will be stocked with 100,000 catchable-sized (10-12”) rainbow trout for the 2007 opener, and should produce a fairly good fishery.    Over 200,000 rainbow trout fingerlings will be stocked later in the spring, and by next year 2008 Blue Lake should be in its prime with limits for everyone. The lake has three resorts and a public access with toilets.

Blythe Lake (30 acres): Please see Seep lakes below.

Burke Lake (73 acres): Please see Quincy Wildlife Area lakes below.

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

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. Disabled accessibility - Level 1. DP, Blk Tpa, bank fishing.

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). All steelhead fishing is closed.

Corral Lake (80 acres): Please see Seep lakes below.

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 one-fish daily limit on trout. Despite providing inconsistent fisheries the past three years, Dry Falls began to show signs of recovery last fall. Fishing should be fair this year for 14-inch yearling rainbow trout and carry-overs 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 one-fish daily harvest limit on trout. This lake was rehabilitated in 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 carry-overs. Tiger and brown trout fingerlings were also stocked in 2005, but will probably not enter the fishery much until they reach two years old or older.

Evergreen Reservoir (235 acres): On the Quincy Wildlife Area, three miles northwest of George and just south of Burke Lake. Year-round open season. Walleye, largemouth bass, and bluegill are the main attractions, with some perch taken too, along with other warmwater species. Tiger muskies are present, with a 36-inch minimum size and one-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 may close to vehicles in the fall. The east side of the reservoir can be accessed through the Quincy Wildlife Area off of Road 3 NW. Disabled accessibility at the west end - Level 3; WCT, lgs. “H” Lake (7 acres): Please see Quincy Wildlife Area lakes below.

"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, were rehabilitated in fall of 2004 to curtail populations of sunfish and perch. Fingerling rainbow trout were stocked in all these waters, and the 2007 opening-day fishery should be very good in Upper Hampton and fair in Lowere Hampton. Access to Lower Hampton is via a spur off of Seep Lakes Road. Small boats can belaunched on Lower Hampton, but internal combustion engines are prohibited. Upper Hampton is 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 one-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 1,000 large triploid rainbows for the 2005 fishery, however, and will receive another stocking of catchables in April 2006 to provide a boost to the fisheries, plus more triploids for Lenice. Both Lenice and Nunnally should provide good-to-excellent fishing this year, with yearling rainbow and brown trout at 12-14 inches and carry-overs to more than 20 inches. Tiger trout have also been stocked, and a new state record (almost seven pounds!) for this hybrid species came from Lenice in 2005. 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. Fishing is catch-and-release only from March 1 through May 31. Selective gear rules apply for the entire open season, plus a one-trout daily limit during the catch-and-keep season. Anglers should check the regulations pamphlet and also note posted closed areas at the north and south ends. Lenore has recovered from the serious fish kill of 1998, and fishing has been excellent the last three years. Two- to four-pound Lahontan cutthroat trout are abundant, with trophy fish up to 10 pounds. Lenore is usually 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. There are four access areas, three with rough boat launches and toilets.

Long Lake: Please see Soda Lake below.

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

Merry Lake: Please see Lenice Lake above.

Moses Lake (6,800 acres): Located in its namesake town. Year-round open season. The results from over three years of intensive biological surveys are in, and indicate an overabundance of walleye, plus plentiful smallmouth bass. Several new regulations will take effect here on May 1, 2006 to address these survey results: walleye rule changes to daily limit eight (8) fish, minimum size 12 inches, no more than one over 22 inches; smallmouth bass rule changes to daily limit 10 fish, no minimum size, no more than one over 14 inches; largemouth bass rule changes to standard statewide (slot) limit; crappie rule changes to daily limit 10 fish, minimum size nine (9) inches; 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 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 3/4" gape) from March 1 through May 31 to prevent snagging of spawning walleyes. Largemouth Bass fishing is good, 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. Moses Lake also has a very large, under-utilized population of two- to three-pound lake whitefish. An annual “Fishing Kids” derby, to be held at Cascade Park on June 10 this year, introduces youth age 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 picnic facilities. Disabled accessibility at North access - Level 1; WCT, lgs. Cantilever pier with paved access.

Nunnally Lake: See Lenice Lake.

Para-Juvenile Lake (12 acres): This small Columbia National Wildlife Refuge lake is shared by Grant and Adams counties. It 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 warmwater species. The lake will be stocked with 70,000 catchable-sized (10-12”) rainbow trout for the 2007 opener, and should produce a fairly good fishery.    Over 130,000 rainbow trout fingerlings will be stocked later in the spring, and by next year 2008 Park Lake should be in its prime with limits for everyone.  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 days of the season.

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. Third Saturday in April through Labor Day open season. There is a five-fish harvest limit, all game fish species combined.

Potholes Reservoir (23,000 acres): About seven miles south of the town of Moses Lake, backed up by O’Sullivan Dam. Year-round open fishing season. This is arguably one of the best walleye fisheries in the state, providing excellent angling throughout the year, with many fish in the four-to-eight pound category. The results of annual surveys indicate an overabundance of walleyes, and very plentiful smallmouth bass. The daily limit for walleye increases to eight (8) fish, with a 12-inch minimum size, no more than one over 22 inches; the rule for smallmouth bass changes to: daily limit 10 fish, no minimum size, and no more than one over 14 inches. A gear restriction (one hook with a maximum 3/4-inch gape) remains in effect for the Crab Creek inlet (from the Moses Lake outlet to the confluence with Potholes) from March 1 through May 31, and is designed to prevent snagging of spawning walleyes. (Note: these revised daily and possession limits also apply to the area from the Moses Lake outlets downstream to the confluence of the outlet streams.) Fishing will also be good for largemouth bass; the current statewide (slot) limit remains in effect for largemouth. 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 daily 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 the 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. A large private resort, a state park, and several developed public access areas provide all the necessary amenities for this large reservoir. Disabled accessibility at Island site and Lind Coulee - Level 1. WCT, lgs. / At Williams Lake site - Level 2. WCT, lgs, +steep launch.

Quincy Lake (43 acres): Please see Quincy Wildlife Area lakes below.

Quincy Wildlife Area lakes: Located southwest of the town of Quincy off of Road 5 NW. Refer to a separate listing for Evergreen Reservoir and Dusty Lake. Quincy and Burke lakes were rehabilitated in fall of 2005, and both waters produced nice sized (12-15”) rainbow trout for opening day.  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 pothole lakes below Quincy and Burke will offer fair rainbow fishing this year. Stan Coffin, “H,” and part of the Ancient lakes provide a warmwater fishery, with some larger bass and excellent fishing for seven-inch sunfish on Stan Coffin. All three are open year-round. Stan Coffin is catch-and-release only for bass.

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 yearround 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, followed by the lower two-mile stretch that meanders across state land. In the lower end of the creek, rainbow populations are down and face increased competition from suckers and carp. The middle three miles are on private land and are not accessible. An access area near the headwater springs has toilets. Disabled accessibility - Level 1; WCT, DP, accessible fishing dock.

Seep lakes (located south of Potholes Reservoir and north of Othello): Many Columbia National Wildlife Refuge lakes that were open year-round or had a March 1 opener switched to an April 1 opening date in 2003. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for specific lake seasons. Most of these waters are stocked annually with rainbow trout. Windmill, Canal, Heart, Corral and Blythe lakes, all with year-round open season, should provide fair-to-good trout fishing opportunity. Windmill and Canal have burgeoning sunfish populations, and trout fishing has declined as a result. Both Windmill and Canal provide Level 1 accessibility, with fishing pads, parking, WCT, DP, Blk Tpa, WC. 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. Lower Goose Lake has a 9-inch minimum size, 10-fish limit on crappie, plus a special bluegill regulation during its year-round season. Also check out some of the smaller, out-of-the way lakes in this same area. These are walk-in lakes at distances of one-fourth to 1-1/4 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 P.O. 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 is only 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; rough camping is allowed.

Stan Coffin Lake (41 acres): Please refer to listing for Quincy Wildlife Area lakes above.

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.  Anglers should find a limited number of catchable-sized rainbow trout in this small, popular lake. Like nearby Perch Lake, it receives heavy pressure and fishing will not hold up past the first few days of the season.

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, but survival has been variable due to sunfish and bullhead catfish competition. However, the 2006 opener and season in general was good.   An access with parking, toilets and a rough launch is available at the north end, and a resort at the north end has recently re-opened. Access at the south end off of Seep Lakes Road is for shore angling only. Please respect adjacent private property.

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 modified 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.

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 28th 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. Disabled accessibility at South Montesano access – Level 3; WCT, DP, steep to river.

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.

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 these “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 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.

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 (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 streams with suitable spawning areas.

Duck Lake (450 acres): Located near Ocean Shores. 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. Failor is also scheduled to receive a bonus plant of  triploid rainbows that average 1.5 to 2 pounds each, and “quality” sized rainbow trout reared through a cooperative project with Elma Game Club and WDFW, that average 4-6 pounds each. 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.

Grays Harbor: Watch for salmon fishing opportunity in Marine Area 2.2. Access points are at Westport, 28th  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).

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.

Humptulips River: Winter and summer steelhead, anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat, fall chinook, coho and chum salmon. This a popular coastal river fishery. 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 rest rooms. Disabled accessibility - Level 2; WCT, lgs.

Johns River: Winter steelhead, coho salmon and anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat are available. All wild steelhead must be released. Check the regulations pamphlet for fishing seasons, limits and area boundaries. This stream provides miles of canoe water. Public access with launch is available. Disabled accessibility - Level 2; WCT, lgs. Pre-boarding before boat launching is available.

Klone lakes: These three small lakes in beautiful surroundings above Wyoochee 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: This juveniles-only water located in Cosmopolis provides accessible fishing for beginning anglers. It is stocked with 10 to 12 inch rainbow trout, and a few larger trout in spring, and is open to fishing year-round.

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): 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 warmwater fish are present, plus opportunity for sea-run cutthroat. Coho returning from a 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 lake shore. This is a redeveloped site with diverse recreational opportunities. Disabled accessibility - Level 2; WCT, DP, Blk Tpa. (See Chehalis River; Friends Landing).

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, limits 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.

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. Barbless single hooks may also improve survival.

Sylvia Lake (32 acres): One mile north of Montesano. Open season is year-round. Good spring, early summer and fall fishing for nine- 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, and plants in April, May and September. This year it is scheduled for a bonus plant of larger triploid rainbows that average 1.5 to 2 pounds each. Additionally, “quality trout” reared through a cooperative project with Elma Game Club and WDFW, that average 4-6 each pounds 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 very large, beautiful rainbows. Surplus adult hatchery steelhead may be periodically available. 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. Disabled accessibility - Level 1; bankside accessibility at launching area and at boardwalk.

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 licenses. 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 average 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 very large, beautiful rainbows. Surplus adult hatchery steelhead are also planted when available. Landlocked salmon rules apply: a catch record card is not required, and all steelhead 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 facilities, and are popular with swimmers after waters warm up. Disabled accessibility - Level 3; WCT, Blk Tpa, dp, level graveled parking.

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. 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  miles of canoewater. 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 a 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 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 season. Fishing from any floating device is prohibited in all areas above the 7400 Bridge.

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 trout, plus largemouth bass and yellow perch populate 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 open season. 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. Trout size is reduced due to competing brown bullhead catfish. 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 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 beaches include 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): About a mile west of Chimacum. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Catch-and-release only and selective gear rules September 1 through October 31. Standard statewide minimum size and catch limit the rest of the open season. Internal combustion engines are prohibited all year. This lake is excellent-to outstanding for rainbows averaging almost 12 inches, with some carry-overs in the three-pound range. A boat launch and good bank fishing access are available on Anderson Lake State Park land.

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 surf perch are also taken.

Clearwater River: Several boat and bank access sites 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.

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): Three miles southwest of Chimacum. 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 Parks jurisdiction, with limited access and no developed boat launch.

Hoh River: Several boat and bank access sites 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 http://www.nps.gov/olym/regs/fishregs.htm

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://www.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.

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. Access is available only via Pope Resources private roads.

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. 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.

Sandy Shore (Sandyshore) Lake (36 acres): About five miles southwest of Port Ludlow. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Rainbow trout are stocked to provide a fishery here. Access is available only via Pope Resources private roads.

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

Tarboo Lake (24 acres): Eight miles west of Port Ludlow. Last Saturday in April through November 30 open season, with landlocked salmon rules in effect. 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): Two miles south of Port Ludlow. This small lake has a complex split season: statewide rules are in effect from the last Saturday in April through August 31; internal combustion engines are prohibited during this time. From September 1 through March 30, the lake is open only to catch-and-release, selective gear rules fishing. The lake is closed to fishing March 31 through the last Saturday in April opening day. 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.