Freshwater and saltwater sport fish records

Have you caught a fish that you think might surpass a current state record? 

Only fishes classified as food fish (WAC 220-300-370) and game fish (RCW 77.08.020 and WAC 220-300-380) may be submitted as a potential sport fish record.

An angler holds up a huge largemouth bass in front of a WDFW regional office.
Photo by WDFW
Bill Evans with the state record for largemouth bass in 2016

Here's how to verify your catch:

  1. First and foremost, DO NOT FREEZE your fish.
  2. Download the sport fish record application (PDF).
  3. The most important step is to get the fish weighed as soon as possible on a certified scale. Obtain the signatures of the scale operator and one other witness to the weighing.
  4. Next, take the fish to a Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife office for verification. To ensure that there is someone available to verify the fish, please call to make an appointment.

    Marine fishes may only be verified at the Region 4 office, Region 6 office, or Headquarters in Olympia (360-902-2200).

Contact information

For any questions about sport fish records or assistance with the process of verification, please reach out to the Sport Fish Record Coordinator.

Email: Alex.Fulton@dfw.wa.gov

Phone: 253-313-4749

Search sport fish records

Select any filter and click on Show Records to see results