COUNTY-BY-COUNTY (T-Y)

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

THURSTON COUNTY

Alder Lake: Since most of Alder is in Pierce County, it is described there. Thurston County has an access area on the north shore, but watch out for stumps!

Bald Hill Lake (45 acres): Eleven miles southeast of Yelm, off of Bald Hill Road. Year-round open fishing season. Largemouth bass and perch are available. Best fishing is late spring and early summer, as aquatic vegetation can make it difficult to fish in late summer.

Black Lake (570 acres): Four miles southwest of Olympia. Year-round open season. This lake has rainbow and cutthroat trout, and some large triploid rainbows. Largemouth and smallmouth bass, perch and crappie add to the fishery. There is a 9-inch minimum size, 10-fish limit on crappie here. A few brown bullheads are available. The WDFW access has a boat launch and two toilets. Two resorts are also available. Disabled accessibility - Level 2; WCT, Blk Tpa, lgs.

Black River drainage: This low-gradient river drains Black Lake to the Chehalis River. Selective gear rules, which also apply to all tributaries west of I-5, are in effect during the June 1 - October 31 open fishing season. Ideal canoe water with two WDFW accesses make fishing for resident and sea-run cutthroat fun. The shoreline is brushy, so it is best fished from a boat.

Burfoot County Park: This park north of Olympia provides miles of spawning beach in Budd Inlet for surf smelt, September through February.

Capitol Lake (270 acres): In Olympia. A few cutthroat trout are caught, and a run of fall chinook passes through the lake, with a good fishery available some years depending on the strength of the run. Check the current regulations pamphlet for the rather complex season and other restrictions.

Chambers Lake (118 acres): On the southwest side of Lacey. Year-round open fishing season. This shallow and weedy lake (actually two lakes connected by a non-navigable canal) gets better for largemouth bass and perch as the water warms. Channel catfish and grass carp are present; grass carp must be released if caught. The WDFW access has a boat launch and two toilets. Disabled accessibility - Level 1; DP, WCT, level.

Clear Lake (170 acres): Ten miles southeast of Yelm, along Bald Hill Road. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Fishing should be good for nine- to 13-inch rainbow and brown trout, with a few cutthroat and largemouth bass. Some brown trout to six pounds are caught. The lake is generally crowded on opening day; get there early for limited parking. There is a WDFW access with boat launch and two toilets.

Deep Lake (66 acres): Located 9-1/2 miles south of Olympia. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. This lake is good for nine- to 11-inch rainbow trout in spring. Action improves in summer for largemouth bass and bluegill. Yellow perch and pumpkinseed sunfish are also present. Millersylvania State Park provides access and a car-topper boat launch (no trailered boats).

Deschutes River: Chinook salmon and resident coastal cutthroat draw plenty of angling action to this area. Fishing is very slow for winter steelhead. The river above Henderson Boulevard Bridge near Pioneer Park is open to year-round, selective gear rules, catch-and-release only fishing. Check the regulations pamphlet for other open seasons.

Fry Cove County Park: Located on the west shore of Eld Inlet, the beach here has been enhanced with Pacific oysters. See Puget Sound below for information on seasons and emergency closures.

Hicks Lake (160 acres): Located in Lacey, just west of Carpenter Road SE. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Hicks should be good for nine- to 10-inch planted rainbows and some larger brown trout. It will also receive a bonus plant of large triploid rainbow trout this year. As the water warms up, so does the action for black crappie, largemouth bass, perch, rock bass and bullhead catfish. The WDFW access provides a boat launch and two toilets.

Kennedy Creek: Fall chum salmon, winter steelhead, and resident and sea-run cutthroat provide angling action on this stream. Wild steelhead must be released. Check the regulations pamphlet for other open seasons and area restrictions.

Lawrence Lake (330 acres): Seven miles southeast of the town of Rainier. Year-round open fishing season. This lake offers largemouth bass, perch, bluegill and pumpkinseed sunfish, and brown bullheads. Brown and rainbow trout should also provide good fishing, and some large cutthroat trout and triploid rainbows will be stocked this year. There is a WDFW access with boat launch and two toilets.

Long Lake (330 acres): On the southeast side of Lacey, across Carpenter Road SE from Hicks Lake. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Rainbows from nine to 12 inches and brown trout to six pounds are caught here. Long Lake also has perch, pumpkinseed sunfish, largemouth bass, rock bass and common carp. The WDFW access has a boat launch and two toilets. Disabled accessibility – Level 2; WCT, gs, Blk Tpa, WCT uphill from launch.

Longs Pond (10 acres): This juveniles-only (age 14 and under) pond is located in Lacey’s Woodland Creek Park. Year-round open fishing season. Planted annually with rainbow trout. A few sunfish, largemouth bass, perch and carp are also available. This year the pond will get a bonus plant of larger triploid rainbow trout. An annual “Fishing Kids” event scheduled for April 22 this year is designed to introduce young anglers to fishing; call Lacey Parks Department at (360) 491- 0857 for more information. There is good shore access and a fishing dock. Boats are not allowed.

McAllister Creek: This stream hosts a special late summer/early fall season for sea-run cutthroat trout. Be sure to check the regulations pamphlet for size and catch limit restrictions.

McIntosh Lake (93 acres): About 3-1/2 miles northeast of Tenino, along Highway SR-507. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. McIntosh is good for rainbow trout nine to 11 inches brown trout, lots of yellow perch plus a few largemouth bass. It will also receive a bonus plant of larger triploid rainbows this year. A WDFW access with boat launch and two toilets is available. Disabled accessibility – Level 3; WCT, Blk Tpa, steep hill.

McLane Creek: This small stream provides a fall chum salmon fishery in lower Mud Bay. The state Department of Natural Resources maintains a scenic walking area upstream from Delphi Road.

Munn Lake (34 acres): About 1-1/2 miles southeast of Tumwater. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Munn is fair for eight- to 10-inch rainbow trout, with a few larger triploid rainbows also available this year. Action is fair for largemouth bass and good for bluegill as the water warms, with an occasional crappie. There is a WDFW access with boat launch and one toilet.

Nisqually River: Chum and Coho salmon, mountain whitefish and cutthroat trout are available. A pretty river to float, but with limited access. Check the 2006/2007 Fishing in Washington regulations pamphlet for revised seasons and gear restrictions. Disabled accessibility – Level 2; Blk Tpa, bankside fishing with railing. High water level varies.

Offut Lake (192 acres): Located 3-1/2 miles north of Tenino. Year-round open season. Offut is good for rainbow trout, plus largemouth bass and yellow perch after the water warms. Triploid rainbows are scheduled to be added to the mix this year. The WDFW access has a small boat launch, two toilets and limited parking. A resort offers boat and dock rentals. Offut Lake has a 5 mph speed limit.

Pattison Lake (270 acres): In south Lacey. Variously known in the past as Petterson and Patterson, this lake is now officially Pattison. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Opening day brings fair fishing for brown trout and planted rainbows. Later in the summer, anglers catch largemouth bass, perch, black crappie and rock bass. The WDFW access has a boat launch and two toilets. A 5 mph speed limit keeps PWCs and water skiers away. 

Percival Landing, Olympia area: Several beaches in this area offer access for surf smelt. Percival Landing offers occasional concentrations of winter surf smelt and herring for jigging.

Priest Point Park: This park north of Olympia provides dipbag opportunities for surf smelt September through February.

Puget Sound: Dungeness and rock crabs, along with several hardshell clam species, are available in many areas. Anglers fish for salmon, sea-run cutthroat and bottom fish. The southeast tip of Anderson Island, Johnson Point and Hammersly Inlet are popular salmon areas. All cutthroat and all wild steelhead must be released in all marine areas. Check regulations and health restrictions before harvesting shellfish. 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 crab seasons. For clam and oyster openings, call the Shellfish Hotline or check the department’s 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 Bio-toxin Hotline at 1-800-562-5632 to check on shellfish safety.

Thurston County Health Department recommends that shellfish not be consumed from the south end of Budd Inlet near East Bay Marina due to chemical contamination. For more information, call Thurston County Health Department at (360) 754-4111. The Department of Health further recommends that shellfish not be consumed from any location in south Budd Inlet due to bacteriological contamination.

Saint Clair, Lake (270 acres): About five miles south of Lacey. Year-round open season. Good fishing for rainbow trout, with kokanee later in the summer. A bonus plant of larger triploid rainbows will be made again this year. The lake is also popular for bluegill sunfish, and largemouth bass, perch, and black crappie are available. There are two WDFW accesses with boat launches and toilets on opposite sides of Rehklau Road SE, off of Yelm Highway.

Skookumchuck Reservoir and River: Rainbow trout and resident cutthroat trout are available in and above the reservoir, and steelhead and anadromous (sea-run) cutthroat below it. Selective gear rules apply above the reservoir, and a two-fish, 12-inch minimum size limit on trout in the reservoir. Open season is June 1 through October 31 in both the reservoir and the river above it. Check the regulations pamphlet for seasons below the reservoir. There is access to the river above the reservoir by timber company road from Vail, but the road is often gated shut. Motorized vehicle use is restricted in timberlands surrounding the reservoir and the upper watershed.

South county ponds: Many of the ponds in the Bald Hills region of southern Thurston County have good populations of largemouth bass and possibly perch, brown bullhead catfish and black crappie. Some of the larger ponds also receive cutthroat fry plants.

Streams: Most Thurston County streams have resident cutthroat. Be sure to check the regulations pamphlet for gear, size, and catch limit restrictions. Bait and gear restrictions increase survival of released fish and will result in better trout fishing in the future.

Summit Lake (530 acres): About nine miles west of Olympia, a mile north of Highway SR-8. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season.  Good for eight- to 10-inch rainbows, with cutthroat and kokanee available, plus largemouth bass, yellow perch and bullhead catfish. The kokanee fishery has been good at 40-50 foot depth. The WDFW access has a boat launch and two toilets. Disabled accessibility – Level 2; WCTs, Blk Tpa, gs, unlevel surfaces.

Ward Lake (65 acres): Located 2-1/2 miles south of Olympia, just north of Yelm Highway. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Anglers should find good fishing for eight- to 10-inch rainbows here. Ward Lake will also receive a bonus plant of larger triploid rainbows again this year. Kokanee, largemouth bass and bluegill show as the weather warms. The WDFW access has a boat launch and two toilets. Unauthorized swimming and/or partying may result in access closure some weekends.

WAHKIAKUM COUNTY

Columbia River: Steelhead and sea-run cutthroat fishing is usually good around the Cathlamet area during the summer. The river downstream of the I-5 bridge re-opens to fishing for hatchery steelhead, hatchery chinook jacks and shad on May 16. Fall salmon fishing will open August 1. This year’s fall chinook runs are predicted to be down from last year. Coho returns are expected to be down significantly, especially late-run Coho. For more information, contact the WDFW regional office in Vancouver at (360) 696-6211 or visit the department’s web site at http://wdfw.wa.gov . Sturgeon fishing can also be very good in this area, with limited bank angling along the Columbia White-tailed Deer National Wildlife Refuge. To keep sturgeon catches within the annual guideline, the mainstem Columbia and its tributaries from Buoy 10 upstream to the Wauna powerlines near Cathlamet is closed to sturgeon retention May 1 through May 12 and July 5 through December 31, 2006. From May 13 through July 4, sturgeon minimum size is 45 inches below the Wauna powerlines. Catch-and-release fishing is allowed during non-retention periods. The mainstem Columbia and its tributaries from the Wauna powerlines upstream to Bonneville Dam will be open for sturgeon retention on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays only through July 31, and from October 1 through December 31. Catch-and-release fishing will be allowed during non-retention days, however, including seven days a week during the August and September non-retention period. Again, check with the Vancouver office or the department’s web site for the latest information. Public boat launches are available at Cathlamet (Elochoman Slough Marina, small fee required), Brooks Slough Access along Highway SR-4 (WDFW), and Skamokawa Vista Park (free). For directions or more information, check the IAC web site at http://www.iac.wa.gov/maps/boat.htm.

Deep River: This river has a fair warm water fishery for largemouth bass, crappie, and yellow perch. Near the mouth in Grays Bay is a popular spot for sturgeon. See sturgeon season, size and catch limit information under Columbia River. Deep River is open to salmon angling to harvest returning net-pen reared early Coho and spring chinook. Fishing for spring chinook should be best from mid-April through early June. All unmarked chinook (with adipose fins intact) must be immediately released unharmed from January 1 through July 31. All chum salmon, wild Coho, all cutthroat, and all trout less than 20 inches must be released. The best salmon opportunity should be in September for hatchery Coho. A private (fee) ramp near the mouth provides access to the Grays Bay-area sturgeon fishery.

Elochoman River: This river west of Cathlamet has good winter-run steelheading in December, January and February. Summer-run steelhead planting resumed in 2003. Sea-run cutthroat are no longer planted. Fall chinook and Coho returns are predicted to be down this year. All chinook salmon must be released upstream from the Highway SR-4 bridge beginning in October. Check the current regulations pamphlet or the department’s web site for the latest information. All chum salmon, wild steelhead, wild Coho salmon, all cutthroat, and all trout less than 20 inches must be released. Bank access is available at Elochoman Salmon Hatchery and Beaver Creek Hatchery.

Grays River: Boating access is available at the Grange Ramp Access (WDFW) near Rosburg. This is a good steelhead river December through March. The West Fork up to the hatchery intake opens for winter steelheading in mid-December. All wild steelhead and all cutthroat must be released. The early Coho return this fall will provide some fishing opportunity. All chinook, chum and wild Coho salmon must be released in the entire Grays River system.

Skamokawa Creek: This small stream west of the town of Skamokawa gets some steelhead in December, January and February. Steelhead are no longer planted here, however. All wild steelhead, all cutthroat, and all salmon must be released.

WALLA WALLA COUNTY

Bennington Lake (52 acres): Located about two miles east of Walla Walla, and formerly known as Mill Creek Reservoir. Year-round open season. Bennington offers good bank access and a boat launch ramp, but internal combustion engines are prohibited. This popular impoundment receives a large annual plant of catchable-size rainbow trout, plus additional “jumbo” rainbows of up to two pounds each. Bennington will also receive large triploid rainbow trout again this year. Only two trout over 13 inches may be retained as part of the five trout daily limit here. Some warmwater species are also present.

Fishhook Pond: This small pond, found west along the tracks from Fishhook Park east of Burbank, is formed by seepage from Ice Harbor Dam pool. The March 1 through October 31 open season takes advantage of the fact that this pond warms early and provides better fishing in early spring. Fishing is from the bank only; fishing from floating devices is prohibited. Spring fishing is good for planted rainbow trout, including some larger fish up to two pounds. Only two trout over 13 inches may be retained as part of the five trout daily limit here. Since Fishhook Park doesn’t open until April, anglers will have to park outside the park and walk down the railroad tracks to reach the pond.

Columbia River/Lake Wallula: See Benton County.

Jefferson Park Pond, Lions Park Pond: These small ponds in the towns of Walla Walla and College Place, respectively, are open only to juveniles (14 years of age and under). They have a year-round open season, and are well-stocked with 10- to 12-inch rainbow trout, plus some “jumbo” rainbows up to two pounds. Only two trout over 13 inches may be retained as part of the five trout daily limit on these ponds.

Mill Creek: This stream flows southwest out of the Blue Mountains into Oregon, then northwest into Walla Walla County and to the Walla Walla River west of College Place. It is no longer stocked with trout, and restrictions are in place to protect wild steelhead and bull trout; check the latest regulations pamphlet for seasons and more details, including a closure area near Gose Street. The daily limit for hatchery steelhead is now three fish.

Quarry Pond (9 acres): Located south of the mouth of the Snake River and Casey Pond, and west of Highway US-12 along the Columbia River. Year-round open season. Fishing from any floating device is prohibited. This pond receives large numbers of catchable-size rainbow trout, plus several hundred “jumbo” rainbows of up to two pounds each. Only two trout over 13 inches may be retained as part of the five trout daily limit here.

Snake River: See Garfield County.

Touchet River: See Columbia County.

Walla Walla River: Access can be a problem here, but three public access areas are now available west of College Place: one near the Whitman Mission, the other two further west near McDonald Bridge. Look for signed parking areas. Steelhead fishing can be very good during late fall and winter. Anglers are now allowed to retain three hatchery steelhead as part of the daily limit. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for gear restrictions and seasons. Channel catfish and smallmouth bass are caught near the mouth.  The bass regulation here is: no minimum size, daily limit five, with no more than three over 15 inches.

The Washington Department of Health (DOH) has issued this fish consumption advisory for the Walla Walla River due to PCB contamination: all anglers, especially women who plan to get pregnant or are pregnant, nursing mothers, and young children should limit consumption of carp from the lower part of the river (below Dry Creek, near Lowden) to one meal (8-ounce portion for adults, proportionally smaller for children) per month, and northern pikeminnow from the upper part of the river (above Dry Creek) to one meal per month. For more information, contact the DOH Office of Environmental Health Assessments at (877) 485-7316 or visit the DOH web site at http://www.doh.wa.gov/fish.

WHATCOM COUNTY

Baker Lake (3,616 acres): Six miles northeast of Concrete. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Fishing in this Baker River reservoir can be excellent for kokanee in April, May and June and again in the fall. There is a six-inch minimum, 18-inch maximum size limit on trout and kokanee. Baker Lake is closed to the taking of bull trout/Dolly Varden, and an area 200 feet in radius around the pump discharge at the south end of the lake is closed to all fishing. Public access for boat launching is provided by Puget Sound Energy, and resorts and campgrounds are also available.

Cain Lake (72 acres): About nine miles southeast of Bellingham. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Fishing should be excellent for rainbow trout in the 3/4-pound range on opening day. The lake also contains largemouth bass and perch. Cain has a public access and boat launch at the south end.

Diablo Lake (910 acres): Six miles northeast of Newhalem. Year-round open fishing season. Naturally reproducing rainbow trout are the main attraction on this Skagit River impoundment. The lake is closed to the taking of bull trout / Dolly Varden. Diablo’s public access and boat launch are managed by the National Park Service.

Fazon Lake (32 acres): Located 1-1/2 miles northwest of Goshen. The lake is open to fishing all year, but fishing from any floating device is prohibited from October 4 through January 15. Largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish are available, and tiger muskies have been planted. Tiger musky minimum size is 36 inches, with a daily limit of one fish. Daily limit and possession limit on channel catfish is two fish. Brown trout fry have been stocked. The WDFW access has a boat launch and toilet. Disabled accessibility – Level 1; WCT, Blk Tpa, level.

Gorge Lake (210 acres): About 2-1/2 miles northeast of Newhalem. Year-round open season. Expect fair fishing for rainbow trout in this Skagit River impoundment. Gorge Lake is closed to the taking of bull trout / Dolly Varden. The lake has p

Nooksack River: Dipping along the river banks downstream from Ferndale, longfin smelt, or “hooligans,” can be taken in winter months. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for seasons, catch limits, and gear restrictions. Check the department’s web site at http://wdfw.wa.gov for emergency closures. Boat access is available at a WDFW access site in Ferndale and at Nugent’s Corner near Cedarville (on SR-542).

Padden Lake (152 acres): Located in the center of Bellingham City Park. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Fishing should be outstanding for rainbow trout averaging three-fourths of a pound opening day. Kokanee and a few cutthroat are also caught. This lake has some of the best shore access in western Washington, and is a wonderful place to bring the kids for safe shoreline fishing. There is a boat launch, but gasoline motors are not allowed.

Ross Lake (11,674 acres): This large Skagit River reservoir is 9-1/2 miles northeast of Newhalem. Open season runs from July 1 through October 31. Fishing is mainly for native rainbow trout. For their protection, special catch and size restrictions are in effect, plus selective gear rules (except outboard motors are allowed). Check the regulations pamphlet for details. The lake is closed to the taking of bull trout / Dolly Varden. There is a public access and boat launch at the north end accessible through British Columbia, and a trail/boat access resort on the south end, plus several boat-access camping sites along the east shore.

Samish Lake (814 acres): About 6-1/2 miles southeast of Bellingham. Year-round open season. Samish offers kokanee, largemouth bass, perch and cutthroat. Check the regulations pamphlet for a special size and catch limit on cutthroat. The best fishing is early June and September. Chumming is no longer legal due to water quality concerns. There is a WDFW access with toilet and boat launch on the east side.

Semiahmoo Spit County Park: This park is located at the western end of Semiahmoo Spit in Blaine. Surf smelt spawn on beaches around and south of the headquarters buildings at the base of the spit on the west (outer) shore. Spawning activity is at its peak in July through January.

Shellfish and Marine Fish: Good crabbing can be found adjacent to most marine beaches and in Chuckanut Bay and Birch Bay. 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. Birch Bay State Park also offers excellent clam digging opportunities. For clam and oyster openings, call the Shellfish Hotline or check the department’s 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. Surf smelt can be harvested at Little Qualicum Park on Bellingham Bay. Marine fishing is available at 6^th Street dock, Boulevard Park pier and Ferry Terminal fishing pier in Bellingham, and at the Blaine dock.

Silver Lake (173 acres): Three miles north of Maple Falls. Last Saturday in April through October 31 open season. Expect excellent fishing on opening day for rainbow trout averaging three-fourths of a pound. Cutthroat trout are also available. Whatcom County and WDFW access sites provide boat launching.

Squalicum Lake (33 acres): Located 6-1/2 miles northeast of Bellingham, one-fourth of a mile south of Highway SR-542. Fly-fishing only and all motors are prohibited. Year-round open season. Cutthroat and brown trout are the main attractions. Larger triploid rainbow trout will also be stocked this year. There is walk-in access with a toilet on the north end.

Squalicum Mall Marina: This area offers winter jigging for surf smelt off marina floats. Current information can be obtained by calling the Bellingham WDFW office at (360) 676-2138.

Terrell Lake (438 acres): Five miles west of Ferndale. Year-round open season, but fishing from any floating device is prohibited for part of the year. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for dates. Excellent fishing for warmwater species, with largemouth bass, yellow perch, and bullhead catfish taken. Cutthroat trout are also caught, and larger triploid rainbow trout will be added this year. There is public access, a fishing dock and WDFW boat launch on the west shore.

Toad Lake (29 acres): Five miles northeast of Bellingham. Last Saturday in April through October 31 season. Fishing should be excellent on opening day for three-quarter-pound rainbow trout. Some kokanee are also available. There is a WDFW access with toilet and boat launch on the west end.

Whatcom, Lake (5,003 acres): Located just east of  Bellingham. Open season runs from the last Saturday in April through October 31. Available species include kokanee, largemouth and smallmouth bass, and yellow perch. Fishing for cutthroat trout is closed due to a decline in numbers caused by siltation from logging and urban activities in their spawning tributaries. It is no longer legal to chum for kokanee, due to water quality concerns. All tributaries and that portion of the lake between Electric Avenue Bridge and the outlet dam are closed to fishing at all times. Boating access and other amenities are available at Bloedel Donovan Park (Bellingham Parks), a WDFW access site, and a resort.

The Whatcom County Health and Human Services Department and Washington state Department of Health have issued this fish consumption advisory for Lake Whatcom: due to mercury contamination, women of childbearing age and children under six years of age should not eat any smallmouth bass, and should limit consumption of yellow perch to one meal a week. Contact Whatcom County Health and Human Services at (360) 676-6724, Washington Dept of Health, Office of Environmental Health Assessment at (877) 485-7316, or the DOH web site at http://www.doh.wa.gov/fish for more information.

Wiser Lake (123 acres): Three miles southwest of Lynden. Year-round open season. Largemouth bass, brown bullheads and pumpkinseed sunfish are available. There is a WDFW access with boat ramp and toilet. Disabled accessibility – Level 2; WCT, lgs.

WHITMAN COUNTY

Garfield Pond: Near the town of Garfield. Year-round open season. This small juveniles-only pond is stocked with rainbow trout to provide a fair spring fishery.

Gilchrist Pond: About six miles south of Colfax, on Union Flat Road. This small farm pond is open year round, with access by permission from the owners. It is stocked with catchable-size rainbow trout for bank fishing. An annual “Fishing Kids” derby, to be held on June 16 this year, introduces youth age 5 to 14 to sport fishing. For more information, contact Whitman County 4-H at (509) 397-6290.

Palouse River: Some fair-sized smallmouth bass are caught in portions of this Snake River tributary. Public access is limited, however. The daily limit and minimum size rules for game fish here are the same as the Snake River.

Pampa Pond (3 acres): Four miles southwest of LaCrosse, along Highway SR-26. March 1 through September 30 open season. The early opener takes advantage of the fact that this pond warms early and provides better fishing in early spring. Fishing from any floating device is prohibited. Rainbow trout are stocked, including some jumbos to two pounds.

Riparia Pond: This small pond is just below Little Goose Dam off the north side of the Snake River. Year-round open fishing season. Catchable-size rainbow trout are planted in spring.

Rock Lake (2,147 acres): One mile north of Ewan. Year-round open fishing season. This mixed-species lake produces nice largemouth bass, plus brown and rainbow trout from annual fry and yearling plants. The WDFW access has a rough boat ramp.

Snake River: Refer to Garfield County.

Union Flat Creek: This Palouse River tributary should provide good fishing for planted rainbow trout between Colton and Uniontown in early June after the water clears. Stocked irregularly, but carry-overs can provide decent fishing. Suspected limited spawning success may contribute additional fishing opportunity.

YAKIMA COUNTY

Ahtanum Creek: This Yakima River tributary normally offers fair fishing for eight- to 10-inch rainbow trout and an occasional whitefish. The South Fork, bordered by the Yakama Indian Reservation, produces small rainbows and cutthroat. The Middle and North forks contain mainly cutthroat. All of these creeks are closed to bull trout fishing. Selective gear rules are in effect for the mainstem, Middle and North forks. Check the regulations pamphlet for closed areas and seasons.

American River: This moderate-sized, high-elevation river follows Chinook Pass Highway (SR-410) before emptying into the Naches River. Expect only poor to fair summer trout fishing, plus whitefish. The river is closed to fishing for bull trout, chinook salmon and steelhead. Selective gear rules are in effect. Starting in 2007 the section of river from Highway 410 Bridge crossing below (down river) from Hells Crossing Campground to Mesatchee Creek Trail crossing is closed July 16 – August 31. Please see 2007 Fishing Regulations for more information on this closure.

Bear Lake (5 acres): In Oak Creek Wildlife Area, about 15 miles west of Naches. Although open to fishing year-round, this small lake is not accessible by vehicle until late April or early May, over a rough road. Elevation is 4610 feet. Fishing should be fair-to-good for planted eight- to 10- inch rainbow trout, with a few to 14 inches.

Bumping Lake/Reservoir (1,310 acres): About eight miles east of Chinook Pass, in Mt. Baker – Snoqualmie National Forest at 3426 feet elevation. Year-round open season. This Bumping River impoundment offers good fishing for six- to nine-inch kokanee starting in mid-May, with a generous kokanee limit. Trolling with gang trolls and maggots or still-fishing with flies and maggots is most successful. Chumming is permitted. Expect fair fishing for eight- to 11-inch rainbow and cutthroat trout. The reservoir is closed to bull trout fishing. Excellent public camping is available at the lake, plus a good boat ramp (managed by USFS).

Bumping River: Hikers will find fair fishing for rainbow, eastern brook and cutthroat trout above Bumping Reservoir. Below the reservoir, there is fair fishing for wild rainbows, plus whitefish during the special whitefish-only winter season. Fish generally range from six to 12 inches. Selective gear rules are in effect for the river below Bumping Lake, except for whitefish. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for whitefish gear rules. The river is closed to bull trout, chinook salmon and steelhead fishing. Numerous Forest Service campgrounds with good river access are available throughout the area.

Byron ponds (50 acres total): About four miles south of Grandview on the Sunnyside Wildlife Area. Year round open season. Thes

Clear Lake (265 acres): Five miles east of White Pass above Rimrock Lake, south of Highway US-12. In the Mt. Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest at 3011 feet elevation. Year-round open season. Expect excellent fishing for planted and carry-over rainbow trout. Clear Lake will also get a plant of triploid rainbows this year. Good access, campgrounds, fishing docks, and a boat launch. The Forest Service charges a boat launch fee.

Cowiche Creek: This Naches River tributary provides fair-to-good summer fishing for small, wild cutthroat, rainbow and an occasional brook trout. Selective gear rules are in effect. Upper sections and forks provide the best fishing.

Dog Lake (61 acres): Located just east of White Pass along the north side of Highway US-12, in Mt. Baker - Snoqualmie National Forest. Open to fishing year round, but this high-elevation lake (4207 feet) doesn't start producing well until early June. Fishing is good throughout the summer for seven- to 11-inch rainbow and brook trout. Dog Lake will also receive a plant of larger triploid rainbows in May this year. Only one fish over 14 inches is allowed in the five-trout daily limit. A large Forest Service campground and rough boat launch are located adjacent to the lake.

High lakes: Many unlisted alpine lakes offer good fishing for trout. For more information on Region 3 trout stocking, please visit the department’s web site, click on Fishing/Shellfishing, and scroll down to Fish Plants. For those without internet access, contact the Department of Fish and Wildlife Region 3 office in Yakima and request a copy of the booklet Region Three High Lakes Primer.

Horseshoe Pond (59 acres): Four miles northwest of Mabton. Year-round open season. This pond offers angling for largemouth bass and sunfish. It is choked with aquatic plants by late spring/summer, and nearly unfishable.

I-82 ponds (8 to 30 acres): These seven gravel pit ponds stretch from Union Gap to Zillah along Highway I-82. The ponds are open to fishing year round, but parking and access is subject to seasonal closure. Gasoline-powered motors are prohibited by county ordinance. Ponds 1 and 2, located between  Mellis Road and Donald Road, support largemouth bass, yellow perch and pumpkinseed sunfish. Expect fair fishing for small pan-sized perch and sunfish. Pond 3, east of Donald Road, provides fair fishing for channel catfish, sunfish, yellow perch and brown trout. Moving east, Pond 4 is stocked with rainbow and brown trout, with browns to 16 inches caught occasionally. Access is from Flint Lane. Pond 5, at the end of Finley Road, has fair fishing for sunfish, bass, and channel catfish. Channel cats up to eight pounds can be found in ponds 3 and 5. Buena, or Pond 6, is located off Buena Loop Road, and should have good early-season fishing for stocked rainbow trout and channel catfish The state record channel cat (36.2 pounds!) came from Buena in 1999. Pond 7, east of Buena, has a fair population of largemouth bass, black crappie and channel catfish. Bass up to eight pounds have been caught in the I-82 ponds. Access to all ponds except Buena is by walk-in. Buena Pond (Pond 6) accessibility – Level 1; DP, WCT, Blk Tpa, level.

Leech Lake (41 acres): Just east of White Pass, on the north side of Highway US-12. Open season is year round.  This high-elevation (4412 feet) lake is open to fly-fishing-only. The lake is usually ice-free by early June, and produces excellent fishing for eight- to 12-inch brook trout throughout the summer. Leech will receive a bonus plant of large triploid rainbow trout again this year. Only one fish over 14 inches is allowed in the five-trout daily limit. Facilities include a Forest Service campground and boat launch, but use of motors is prohibited.

Little Naches River: There is good access via several Forest Service campgrounds. Fair-to-good fishing for wild rainbow and cutthroat trout make the Little Naches River a popular area. The upper sections and forks provide good fishing for small cutthroat. Selective gear rules are in effect. The river is closed to bull trout, chinook salmon and steelhead fishing.

Morgan Pond (24.6 acres): This pond is on the Sunnyside Wildlife Area, about two miles north of Mabton next to McGee Road. Year-round open season. It offers fishing for largemouth bass and sunfish, but is almost unfishable by late spring or early summer due to aquatic plant growth.

Mud Lake (4 acres): This small lake is seven miles northwest of Naches on the south side of Cleman Mountain, at a little over 2000 feet elevation. Open season is year-round. Selective gear rules are in effect, with a trout daily limit of one fish. Fishing should be good for eight- to 12-inch rainbow trout with some carry-overs in the 12- to 16-inch range. Mud Lake will also receive a plant of larger triploid rainbow trout again this year. The road to the lake is heavily rutted and rough in some areas.

Myron Lake (12 acres): Located in Yakima between Fruitvale Boulevard and Highway US-12. Year-round open season. Selective gear rules are in effect, with a trout daily limit of one fish. Fishing is expected to be good for planted, catchable-size rainbow and brown trout. Browns in the three- to six-pound range have been caught here. A few broodstock rainbows in the six- to 12-pound range are stocked in late fall. Myron will also receive a bonus plant of larger triploid rainbow trout this year.

Naches River: This large river is adjacent to Chinook Pass Highway (SR-410) and is very accessible. It supports wild rainbow and cutthroat trout. Expect excellent whitefish angling during the special winter whitefish-only season, with whitefish ranging from eight to 14 inches. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for whitefish gear rules. Selective gear rules are in effect for trout, with a 12-inch minimum and 20- inch maximum size limit, and a two-trout daily limit, except from the confluence with Tieton River upstream to Rattlesnake Creek is catch-and-release only. Closed to all bull trout, steelhead and chinook salmon fishing.

North Elton Pond (15 acres): Near Selah, alongside Highway I-82. December 1 through March 31 open season. There is a two-trout daily limit, and internal combustion engines are not allowed. North Elton is stocked prior to the winter-only season with half-pound rainbow trout.

Oak Creek: This small stream running through the Oak Creek Wildlife area provides good fishing for wild rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout to 10 inches.

Rattlesnake Creek: Wild cutthroat and rainbows ranging from six to 12 inches produce good fishing.

Little Rattlesnake Creek also provides good fishing for the same species. The best fishing is in hike-in areas. Catch-and-release, selective gear rules are in effect for Rattlesnake Creek. Anglers should avoid targeting bull trout, salmon or steelhead, which are protected here.

Rimrock Lake (2,530 acres): This large Tieton River impoundment stretches along Highway US-12, about 10 miles east of White Pass. It is in Mt. Baker Snoqualmie National Forest at 2922 feet elevation (at the spillway). Open to fishing year-round. Rimrock provides good fishing for eight- to 11-inch kokanee, with a generous kokanee catch limit, plus a few rainbows to 16 inches. This is normally one of the best and most popular kokanee-fishing destinations in Yakima County from May - July. Although predicting fishing success is difficult in this reservoir. The lake is closed to bull trout fishing. Public and private campgrounds are located by the lake and public and private launch ramps are available. The Forest Service charges a boat launch fee.

Rotary Lake (23 acres): Near the Greenway Trail in Yakima, about one-third of a mile from either Harlan Landing or the parking lot behind Boise- Cascade. Year-round open season. This lake is stocked with catchable-size (eight-12 inches) rainbow and brown trout, and largemouth bass up to seven pounds have been caught. Channel catfish have also been stocked. Rotary provides good fishing opportunity spring through fall. Disabled accessibility – Level 1; DP, WCT, Blk Tp trails, WC docks.

Sarge Hubbard Park Pond (3.5 acres): Located near the Greenway trail at Sarge Hubbard Park in Yakima, this small pond is open only to juveniles (14 years of age and younger) and holders of disability licenses. Year-round open season. It is regularly stocked with catchable-size rainbow trout and fingerling channel catfish. A “Fishing Kids” event scheduled for May 12, 2006 is designed to introduce youth age 5-14 to sport fishing. For more information or registration forms, please contact Yakima Parks Department at (509) 575-6020 or the WDFW office in Yakima at (509) 575-2740. Disabled accessibility – Level 1; WCT, WC docks, Blk Tp trails.

Tieton River: Numerous Forest Service campgrounds along Highway US-12 provide easy access. Fishing is fair for rainbows and whitefish, with whitefish angling best during the special whitefish-only winter season. Bureau of Reclamation irrigation water management results in high flows and unfishable conditions from early September to late October. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for seasons and fishing boundaries, as well as special regulations in the North and South forks. New whitefish gear rules and reduced trout daily limit went into effect in 2002. Closed to fishing for bull trout in all areas.

Wide Hollow Creek: This small creek in Yakima is no longer stocked.

Yakima River: Excellent fishing for rainbow trout and whitefish can be found above Roza Dam (in Kittitas County). Rainbow action is best in the fall. See under Kittitas County for more information. Whitefish action is best in January and February. Check the latest regulations pamphlet for seasons, special regulations, and whitefish gear rules. The lower reaches support a popular smallmouth bass and channel catfish fishery. See under Benton County for more information. . The entire river, including all tributaries and drains, is closed to steelhead and bull trout fishing.   Public and private camping is available near the river. Disabled accessibility at Mellis Road access – Level 3;  WCT, lgs, ds. / At Zillah Bridge - Level 3; WCT, Blk Tpa, level.

The Washington Department of Health (DOH) has issued this fish consumption advisory for the Yakima River due to DDT and DDE contamination: all anglers are recommended to limit consumption of mountain whitefish, common carp, bridgelip sucker and all bottom fish to one meal per week. For more information, contact the DOH Office of Environmental Health Assessments at (877) 485-7316 or visit the DOH web site at http://www.doh.wa.gov/fish.