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.
In this section
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Want to fish in Washington? Keep up to date with the latest fishing rules and regulations.
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Shellfish harvesters have an assortment of opportunities in Washington.
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Whether hiking to a remote lake or heading out for a day on the ocean, fishing opportunities abound in Washington.
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Find information about the latest creel and stocking reports in Washington waters.
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Learn about fishing techniques and equipment, along with suggested preparation and cooking methods.
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A guide to how WDFW manages fish and shellfish.
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Learn about how the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works with tribal and federal fishery managers to manage the state's fisheries.
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Learn about upcoming adult and youth fishing contests and events around the state.
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Fish and shellfish harvested in Washington waters make their way to markets around the world.
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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.
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Find out where, when, and how to enjoy fresh, local, Washington seafood.
Fishing news & important dates
As part of new regulations for the 2024-25 season, all waters within channels created by exposed tidelands are closed to fishing at Minter Creek in Pierce County. Salmon fishing is open from Sept. 1 through Dec. 31, 2024.
WDFW's The Salmon Fishing Current blog is a way to keep recreational anglers informed this summer and fall of any in-season management developments and a better understanding of why changes could occur in Puget Sound, the coast, Columbia River, and statewide rivers and streams.
Conservation starts here
These salmon are raised by Bellingham Technical College students as food for Southern Resident killer whales and to support fisheries.
The NHFD celebration is a great, family-oriented way to introduce youth to target shooting, hunting and fishing.
Site use rules at the Vernita Bridge Access Area are changing to improve safety and protect the natural environment.
