Fishing & Shellfishing

Some of the best fishing opportunities in the nation are available in Washington. From fly-fishing for bass and trout on freshwater lakes and streams east of the Cascades to trolling for salmon along the coast to crabbing in Puget Sound, Washington offers a diverse and unique outdoors experience. Find the experience that's right for you, whether you're a long-time angler or a first-time fisher.

A wild steelhead held in the water before release.
Photo by Chase Gunnell

Fishing news & important dates

Sunrise photo of people fishing on the beach.
Photo by Blue Haught
The Salmon Fishing Current blog: North of Falcon 2025 edition

Stay informed throughout the salmon season-setting process. Follow The Salmon Fishing Current blog for the latest updates on forecasts, meetings, and in-season changes. WDFW seeks public input on statewide salmon fishery proposals, and the next North of Falcon virtual meeting is April 3.

A mother and young son smile as they show off their caught fish.
Photo by WDFW
2025-26 fishing & hunting licenses are available now

If you’re daydreaming about your next big season, you can take that next step now since 2025 license year products are available. The current license year runs through March 31. Items for the 2025 license year are valid from April 1, 2025 through March 31, 2026.

Conservation starts here

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Rockfish identification 2025 version
Photo by WDFW
Reminder about rockfish identification and retention

With the recreational bottomfishing season underway on the Washington Coast, anglers are reminded about rockfish rules.

Close up of adult coho in spawning colors.
Photo by WDFW
WDFW seeks public input on Lower Columbia River tributary fisheries

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is asking for public input on management strategies for salmon and steelhead in Lower Columbia River tributary fisheries.

Four people on a dock holding three caught halibut.
Photo by David Bergeron
Halibut fishing starts April 3 in some Puget Sound marine areas and May 1 in coastal marine areas

Fishery managers remind anglers that a descending device must be on board vessels and rigged for immediate use when fishing for or possessing bottomfish and halibut

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