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.

Anglers salmon fishing on central Puget Sound. Photo by Chase Gunnell / WDFW

In this section

Fishing regulations
Want to fish in Washington? Keep up to date with the latest fishing rules and regulations.
Shellfishing regulations
Shellfish harvesters have an assortment of opportunities in Washington.
Places to go fishing
Whether hiking to a remote lake or heading out for a day on the ocean, fishing opportunities abound in Washington.
Fishing and stocking reports
Find information about the latest creel and stocking reports in Washington waters.
Fishing and shellfishing basics
Learn about fishing techniques and equipment, along with suggested preparation and cooking methods.
Managing fish populations
A guide to how WDFW manages fish and shellfish.
Tribal fishing
Learn about how the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works with tribal and federal fishery managers to manage the state's fisheries.
Fishing events
Learn about upcoming adult and youth fishing contests and events around the state
Commercial fishing
Fish and shellfish harvested in Washington waters make their way to markets around the world.
Monofilament recovery and recycling program
Monofilament line can cause problems throughout the environment when it is lost during fishing or improperly discarded overboard. Learn where you can discard used fishing line.
Buy a license
See rule changes
Catch reporting

Fishing news & important dates

Late summer and early fall are the peak fishing period for yellow perch in many lakes around Washington
Yellow perch take centerstage in many lakes around Washington

Yellow perch is one of several “panfish” species that are very popular for anglers to easily catch across the state, they’re a great “family fishing activity” and they are outstanding eating quality.

Yellow perch fishing
Girl with halibut
Additional halibut fishing days added in August and September

Reel in halibut this August and September with expanded opportunities to round out the season.

Learn more
More news

Conservation starts here

salmon in net
Safe salmon handling

Following these best practices for handling salmon can increase their chances of survival.

Watch the video
Rockfish in marine waters
Help inform future Puget Sound rockfish management: Take our survey

Do you fish in Puget Sound? WDFW rockfish researchers want to hear from you!

Learn more
Tire tracks in creek
Protecting bull trout in Gold Creek and Keechelus Reservoir

Illegal recreation hurts bull trout by damaging habitat and stream channels, and restricting fish movement. Learn how you can help protect these at-risk fish.

Read the blog

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