Hayes Lake

This is the northernmost of the two ponds visible on the east side of I-5 driving through Centralia. Sometimes called Skookumchuck Lake or Slough, it is across the freewayfrom Fort Borst Park, and is connected by a channel to the Skookumchuck River. Shore-fishing access is limited, but small hand-carried boats can be launched at a city park at the south end of Bridge Street (just past the Goodwill store).

This pond is not stocked with trout, but has some largemouth bass and other warmwater gamefish. Most of the pond gets quite weedy by late summer, so spring and early summer is the best time to fish.

Two-pole fishing is NOT allowed

Shoreline access: Good - Limited.

Species you might catch

Largemouth bass

Lake information

County: Lewis
Acreage: 16.50 ac.
Elevation: 168 ft.
Center: 46.722914, -122.974227
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Fishing resources

Fishing prospects calendar

Largemouth bass

Fishing improves throughout the spring as waters warm and fish move onshore, peaking during the spawn. Summer is a slight lull though dawn/dusk hours can be very good. Catch improves in Fall as waters cool, vegetation begins to die back, and prey becomes more available. Winter is the hardest time because fish are offshore and slow moving.