WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE     Print Version
NEWS RELEASE
600 Capitol Way North, Olympia, WA 98501-1091

YAKIMA -- State fisheries officials in south central Washington are busy stocking large numbers of catchable-sized rainbow trout in local lakes and ponds in preparation for opening day of fishing this Saturday.

Although most lakes in the region are open to fishing year-round, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks large numbers of trout in local waterways in late April in anticipation of increased angler activity.

"So far this year, about 160,000 trout have been planted in regional waters, and most of those fish were planted during mid-April," said Keith Wolf, who oversees WDFW's fisheries programs for the region.

"By early summer, we'll have planted about 250,000 trout," Wolf added. "By fall, another 30,000 or so will be planted."

Anglers fishing local lakes should see a mix of rainbow and carryover brown trout, or fish that survived a full year. Some rainbow trout that recently were stocked should weigh well over a pound.

"This should be an excellent time to get outdoors with the family, get some fresh air and sunshine, and catch some fish," said WDFW fisheries biologist Eric Anderson, who is coordinating the fish stocking activities.

A fish stocking list may be obtained at WDFW's Region 3 office in Yakima at 1701 S. 24th Ave. Additional information on angling opportunities is also available at the regional office.

Anglers are reminded to check WDFW's fishing rules pamphlet for catch limits and gear restrictions.