Phone calls to North Puget Sound Region customer service will go to voicemail during this time. We will return your call as soon as possible. We encourage you to email us at TeamMillCreek@dfw.wa.gov.
16018 Mill Creek Boulevard
Mill Creek, WA 98012-1541
United States
Fishing tips and news
New to fishing in Washington? Check out our Fish Washington blog post for a guide on how to get started.
2024-25 Sport Fishing Rules
The latest fishing regulations go into effect July 1. The 2024-25 Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet is now available online and will soon be at hundreds of license dealers around the state.
Be sure to buy your 2024-25 recreational fishing license before heading out. Licenses are available on WDFW’s licensing website, at WDFW regional offices, or through license vendors.
Current fishing regulations and emergency Fishing Rule Changes are also available online at wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations.
Summer crabbing seasons get underway
Summer crab-fishing or “crabbing” seasons get underway July 1 in many areas of Puget Sound and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The San Juan Islands (Marine Area 7) will open later in July or August. Summer crab seasons are typically closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays in the Puget Sound management area. Detailed regulations and season dates are available on our webpage, or learn more in our news release.
Extreme low tides around the July 4 holiday will pose a challenge for launching boats at some sites. Crabbers should target the portion of the day with the least tide exchange and make sure their pots are weighted down during these extreme low tides to avoid them moving and becoming lost. Crabbers can find helpful information on how to properly weight crab pots by going to the Northwest Straits Commission webpage.
Sockeye salmon fishing on Skagit River and Baker Lake
The Baker River sockeye forecast is a strong 56,750 fish and should provide good fishing in the Skagit River as well as Baker Lake, which opens July 6 with a four-sockeye daily limit. A portion of the Skagit River is closed through July 2 and will then reopen through July 15.
Visit our webpage for Baker sockeye counts and more information.
Baker Lake anglers and boaters should be aware that WDFW Police and law enforcement partners will be conducting mandatory aquatic invasive species (AIS) checks on boats entering Baker Lake to help prevent the introduction of quagga and zebra mussels that can impact infrastructure and potentially cause tens of millions of dollars in damage. Please be respectful and cooperate during inspections to help get everyone on the lake as quickly as possible.
Recreational spot shrimp fishing continues
Several Puget Sound marine areas remain open for shrimping, with additional days added in July. See our latest news release for details.
Also known as prawns, spot shrimp are the largest shrimp in Puget Sound and may grow up to 9 inches in length. More details, including scheduled dates as well as regulations and gear rules, are available on our recreational shrimp fishing webpage.
Summer salmon fishing ramps up in Puget Sound
Summer salmon fishing along the Washington coast and in areas of Puget Sound continues this month. Visit our newsroom and The Salmon Daily Current blog post for more details.
The Strait of Juan de Fuca at Sekiu/Pillar Point (Marine Area 5) and Port Angeles (Marine Area 6) areas open July 1. Each area has catch guidelines and could close for Chinook retention once they are met.
Summer Chinook fisheries open July 18-20 in San Juan Islands (Marine Area 7), Admiralty Inlet (Marine Area 9), Seattle/Bremerton (Marine Area 10), and Tacoma-Vashon Island (Marine Area 11).
WDFW will assess the Chinook catch after the initial three-day opener, and additional Chinook openings may occur in each marine area based on available quota.
See the fishing regulations or Fish Washington mobile app for details including catch limits.
Biotoxin closures in north Puget Sound
When planning a bivalve shellfish gathering trip, always check the WDFW regulations for public beaches in your area as well as the Washington State Department of Health (DOH)’s Shellfish Safety Map at doh.wa.gov/shellfishsafety. Many areas of the Washington Coast and north Puget Sound are currently closed to bivalve (clams, oysters, and mussels) shellfish harvest due to elevated risk of paralytic shellfish poisoning or other biotoxins.
WDFW works closely with DOH to ensure safe, legal harvest of shellfish on state beaches. In order to safely and legally harvest shellfish for human consumption, both the DOH health status and the WDFW season for a beach must be OPEN.
For open beaches, be sure to chill shellfish on ice or refrigerate immediately after gathering to slow the growth of harmful bacteria like Vibrio. The DOH shellfish illness prevention webpage has more tips and information.
Additional recreational halibut opportunities in August and September
Spring halibut catches, and effort were lower than anticipated, which means we have sufficient remaining quota to offer more harvest opportunity scheduled later this summer. Visit our news release for details before you start planning trips.
Fishing regulations include depth restrictions and area closures designed to reduce encounters with yelloweye rockfish, which must be released under state and federal law. Anglers are reminded that a descending device must be on board vessels and rigged for immediate use when fishing for or possessing bottomfish and halibut. Refer to WDFW’s webpage for information about descending devices.
Many rivers and streams open, certain rivers closed to protect salmon
With waters still flowing cold but settling after spring runoff, July is peak season for many river and stream fisheries. Dozens of rivers and streams across Washington are open for gamefish, including trout, steelhead, char, and whitefish, as well as numerous non-native fish species like bass and perch.
Areas such as the forks of the Snoqualmie and Skagit rivers hold surprisingly large native rainbow and cutthroat trout that can be caught using small spinners, spoons, jigs, or fly-fishing gear.
Many rivers and streams are managed under catch and release or selective gear rules — which prohibit using bait, barbs, and treble hooks — to protect wild steelhead and salmon. Be sure to check the fishing regulations and emergency Fishing Rule Changes or use the new and improved Fish Washington mobile app before heading out.
Several rivers in the Puget Sound region will remain closed to fishing this summer to protect Chinook salmon, including the Snoqualmie River below Snoqualmie Falls, the Nooksack River, and the much of the Skykomish River including the South Fork.
Lowland lakes trout fishing, trout derby open through October
The statewide lowland lakes trout-fishing season is now open. Search for local fishing spots, with information on bank access, what’s in the water, and when it’s biting on our lowland lakes page. You can also find out how many fish were stocked in each lake by checking the stocking reports.
WDFW's annual statewide trout derby at more than 100 stocked lakes runs through Oct. 31. Over 100 businesses are offering more than 800 prizes valued at over $42,000. There is no entrance fee or registration required; just catch a tagged trout during this timespan and you win!
WDFW to phase out recreational fishing and shellfishing hotlines
For several decades, WDFW provided phone hotlines where people could listen to prerecorded messages about fishing seasons and rule changes. In the years since we established the hotlines, WDFW launched several new options to find accurate, up-to-date fishing information. In summer 2024, we are phasing out the phone hotlines for recreational fishing and shellfishing. There are no changes to the commercial hotlines.
There are many places to find WDFW fishing regulations and information. We encourage anglers who used the prerecorded hotlines to take advantage of one of the web, mobile app, or other customer service phone options we offer. Visit our Fishing Hotlines Page to see the full list of new options and find more information.
Boating season is here! Clean, drain, dry your boat
Help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species this summer by having your boat checked every time you pass a watercraft check station and by cleaning, draining, and drying it every time you take it out of the water. Tips and more information are available on our webpage.
Aquatic invasive species (AIS) are a huge threat to the state's native ecosystems. In particular, invasive mussels, recently found as close to Washington as the Snake River in Idaho, are a major concern, but you can take some quick, easy steps to help prevent their spread. European green crabs are another AIS of concern in Western Washington.
Bass week
Join us for Bass Week July 8-12 as WDFW celebrates bass anglers and all things bass fishing on our social media accounts. Bass Week also includes a Facebook Live Bass Week demonstration and Q&A session on July 11. Grab your gear, bring your questions, and get ready for this annual event!
Shad fishing continues on the Cedar River
We have been receiving reports of anglers catching American shad in the Cedar River. In recent years, shad have also been caught in the Sammamish River and by WDFW crews while netting Lake Washington to suppress populations of non-native predatory fish. Though shad are not classified as an aquatic invasive species, WDFW encourages anglers to retain shad caught in the Lake Washington watershed. Shad primarily feed on plankton, and potential effects on salmon, trout, and steelhead are not well documented.
Kill and report invasive pike
Northern pike, a harmful invasive fish, have been caught recently in Lake Washington and on San Juan Island.
If anglers catch northern pike in new areas, WDFW asks that they kill the pike immediately and do not release it, take a photo, and report it by calling 1-888-WDFW-AIS, email at ais@dfw.wa.gov, or use the Washington Invasive Species Council reporting form or mobile app.
It is illegal to possess live invasive species, including pike. Under state regulations, prohibited invasive species may be killed and retained if the person assumes responsibility for correct identification and adherence to fishing regulations. Learn more in our news release.
Hunting opportunities and news
For an overview of hunting in Washington and how to get started, visit our Hunt Washington blog post.
Buy your 2024 hunting license
With summer in full swing, Washingtonians will need to buy 2024-2025 recreational hunting and fishing licenses. People can buy licenses from WDFW’s licensing website, WDFW regional offices, or hundreds of license vendors around the state.
Current hunting regulations are also available online at wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/regulations.
2023-25 hunting regulations
The 2023-24 Game Bird and Small Game Hunting Regulations and 2024-25 Big Game Hunting Regulations pamphlets are available online and at hundreds of license dealers around the state. The updated rules can help hunters make decisions about how to spend their time in the field.
Current hunting regulations are also available online at wdfw.wa.gov/hunting/regulations.
Summer scouting can lead to fall hunting success
With fall big game, waterfowl, and small game seasons fast approaching, now is the time to get ahead. Discovering new areas, identifying crucial habitat, and strategically placing trail cameras can significantly boost your chances of success later this year. Summer scouting also offers an excellent opportunity to physically prepare for the challenges of hunting.
Beyond scouting, it's wise to inspect and prepare your gear to ensure it's both safe and functional. Begin your preparations today by visiting the WDFW Hunt Planner webpage or check out our myWDFW webpage.
First Turkey Program
With the spring wild turkey hunting season wrapped up as of the end of May, now is the time to celebrate if this was your first turkey season. Send us your first turkey harvest information and receive an official WDFW First Turkey certificate. With the certificate, you can register your turkey with the National Wild Turkey Federation’s Washington state chapter to receive an official First Turkey pin.
Be aware of avian influenza (bird flu)
With the bird migration underway, there is a chance we could also see a resurgence in highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI or commonly known as bird flu) to the state. The H5N1 virus of avian influenza is making the rounds again, especially in areas of Western Washington. This is confirmed by WDFW testing of sick or dead wild birds and U.S. Department of Agriculture surveillance of hunter-harvested birds.
Hunters are encouraged to take precautions to protect themselves and their dogs from the virus. WDFW has specific precautions on our avian influenza webpage under “Human HPAI Safety.” If you encounter a sick or dead wild bird, please report it via our online reporting tool.
New, prospective hunters must complete hunter education
Before hunting seasons start, be sure to complete your hunter education course.
Students may choose between a traditional classroom or hybrid course. The traditional course is a multi-session instructor-led training with an average of 15 hours of instruction. The hybrid course consists of a self-paced online class followed by a field skills evaluation by certified instructors.
Prospective hunters can learn more about hunter education requirements and register for either a traditional or hybrid course by visiting WDFW’s hunter education webpage.
Per Washington state law, all hunters born after Jan. 1, 1972, must complete a hunter education course in order to buy a hunting license. A hunter education deferral is available for hunters 10 and older who want to try hunting with an eligible licensed hunter before completing a hunter education course themselves.
Hoof disease in elk
As many hunters know, Treponeme-Associated Hoof Disease (TAHD) has spread among elk in Western Washington in recent years, including in the North Cascades Elk Herd (PDF). While elk are susceptible to many conditions that cause limping or hoof deformities, the prevalence and severity of this new affliction – now known as treponeme-associated hoof disease (TAHD) – suggests something different.
In 2021, WDFW implemented an incentive-based pilot program to encourage Western Washington (400, 500, 600 series GMUs) hunters to harvest limping elk, potentially reducing prevalence of the disease over time. General season or permit hunters can choose to participate in the program by submitting elk hooves at one of the many collection sites in western Washington.
See the WDFW website for the locations of collection sites. Hunters that submit hooves with signs of TAHD (for example, abnormal hooves) will be automatically entered into a drawing for a special incentive permit for the following license year. Multiple bull permits in western Washington with season dates of Sept. 1 – Dec. 31 will be awarded. Additionally, all participants will receive a custom, waterproof license holder.
What hunters can do to help:
- Harvest a limping elk from any 400, 500, 600 series GMUs
- Turn in your elk hooves along with complete registration forms at one of several collection sites in western Washington
- Report elk: Hunters can help WDFW track TAHD by reporting observations of both affected and unaffected elk on the department’s online reporting form.
- Clean shoes and tires: Anyone who hikes or drives off-road in a known affected area can help minimize the risk of spreading the disease to new areas by removing all mud from their shoes and tires before leaving the area.
Head to myWDFW.com for info on hunting, angling, and more
WDFW has rolled out a promotional website for all things hunting, angling, foraging, recreating, and more. At myWDFW.com, you’ll find informative how-to articles on the season’s major fishing and hunting opportunities, as well as a portal to online license sales and a regular update on WDFW’s latest Life Outdoors articles.
Each quarter, new fishing and hunting highlights are posted to help you get ready and take part in Washington’s current and upcoming opportunities. Dedicated to current agency promotions, outdoor recreation information, and educational content, myWDFW.com preps you to meet with success in the field and on the water.
Wildlife watching and recreation
Searching for places to watch wildlife or recreate on State Wildlife Areas or WDFW Water Access Areas? Visit our Places to Go webpage, Wildlife Area map or Water Access Area webpage for ideas.
Or visit our wildlife viewing webpage for more information and tips on wildlife watching!
Big Ditch Access Area closed to vehicles through Sept. 15
Big Ditch Water Access Area is closed to vehicle entry through September 15 to reduce illegal dumping, vandalism, and target shooting. Walk-in access from the gate is allowed. This site near Stanwood on the southside of Skagit Bay is popular in the fall and winter for waterfowl hunting and birdwatching.
For information on other water access areas nearby, please visit our Skagit Wildlife Area webpage.
Blue Stilly Access Area closed through Sept. 20
The Blue Stilly Water Access Area will be closed to vehicle entry through Sept. 20, 2024. The site will reopen to vehicles Sept. 21 through Jan. 31, or otherwise when fishing is open on the adjacent section of the Stillaguamish River.
Blue Stilly was acquired by WDFW to support fishing access, and the Department intends to continue to allow vehicle access during fishing seasons, along with other responsible walk-in access, while deterring irresponsible and potentially dangerous behavior.
There are several county and city parks nearby, including Haller Park and Twin Rivers, that provide alternative options for people to responsibly enjoy access to the river.
Watchable Wildlife
Whale watching is a popular pastime that can be done on land and sea. Orcas, humpback whales, gray whales, minke whales, and harbor porpoises (just to name a few) can all be spotted during this time of year. Search for a reputable and responsible boat operator through the Pacific Whale Watch Association, or explore the Whale Trail for best viewing locations on shore.
No coastline? No problem. There’s always wildlife to watch across the state! Check out a Wildlife Area near you to enjoy time outside and find birds, mammals, amphibians, and more. When viewing all wildlife, be sure to follow responsible and ethical viewing and photography practices to have a safe and enjoyable experience. More information on wildlife viewing, including how to get started, can be found on our webpage.
Help protect wildlife by keeping dogs leashed
With summer right around the corner, now’s the time to get out and enjoy Washington’s great outdoors. Also during this time, does are giving birth to fawns, ground-nesting birds are tending to their eggs and young chicks, and sensitive plants are growing to provide food and habitat for wildlife.
If you have a canine companion, chances are they’re eager to join you outdoors, too. While dogs are welcome at WDFW wildlife areas and water access areas, please keep in mind that they must be leashed through July 31. Learn more about how this helps to protect habitat, wildlife, and people in our 2022 blog post.
Take a hike — and practice safety!
Coastal Washington is full of hiking trails where you can see a variety of landscapes, wildlife, and plants. Proper planning can help keep you safe during your next hiking trip!
- Tell someone where you’re going and when you expect to be home. Travel with a buddy when possible.
- Stay aware of your surroundings and be sure you can easily see and hear what’s behind and in front of you.
- Carry survival gear, including a first-aid kit and extra clothing, food, and water. A sleeping bag or other form of shelter is also a good idea in case you need to spend the night outside.
- Bring a reliable map, compass, and GPS with extra batteries. Remember that electronic locators and communication devices, like cellphones, may not work in the backcountry.
Wild neighbors: what to do if you encounter young wildlife
If you find fawns, baby birds, or other young animals, please leave them be, even if they appear to be orphaned or abandoned. Most animals have a parent foraging or hunting nearby. Read our blog to learn about when not to rescue wildlife and what to do if you encounter certain species.
For wildlife that do require care, WDFW relies on permitted rehabilitators. Rehabilitators are trained and highly skilled in providing the unique attention needed for injured or orphaned wildlife, and care deeply for the animals entrusted to them.
Visit our website to learn more about Washington’s wildlife rehabilitators and find one near you. Remember to thank the rehabilitators in your region for the important work they do on behalf of our state’s wildlife!
Practice black bear awareness this summer
Black bears are common throughout Washington, including suburban areas. Both when preparing for hibernation and awakening from it, they look for high-calorie foods that are easy to get. These may include garbage, bird feeders (both seed and liquid), fruit trees, and pet food.
As human populations encroach on bear habitat, people and bears have greater chances of encountering each other. Food sources provided by humans, whether intentionally or not, can attract bears. Removing these attractants is the best way to encourage bears to move along and focus on natural food sources
Ask your local waste management company if bear-resistant containers are available or if individually purchased bear-resistant containers are compatible with the company’s equipment. Secure your garbage cans, such as in a shed or garage, and put them out the morning of pickup — not the night before. To help reduce odors, freeze meat and fish waste before disposing of it and spray garbage cans with disinfectants.
More information on living with bears is available on our website.
Skagit Wildlife Area Headquarters Unit to remain closed to public
Following heavy rains and flooding, we have determined that the Skagit Wildlife Area Headquarters Unit near Conway will remain closed to public access until further notice due to safety concerns. Walk-in access is prohibited.
WDFW hopes to reopen the Skagit Headquarters Unit to the public later in 2024 once critical public safety and habitat protection work is complete. Learn more in our statement.
Since 2016, multiple high-water events have overtopped dikes in the area, resulting in temporary inundation of public and private property. This construction project will raise and widen the dikes in accordance with Army Corps of Engineers standards. More information is available on this webpage.
Conserving species and habitats
Looking for more info on wildlife conservation and species management around Washington? Check out our Bi-Weekly Wildlife Program reports.
Check out our May/June 2024 Director's Bulletin for more conservation highlights!
Boaters, remember to Be Whale Wise
When boating this summer, make sure to follow Be Whale Wise regulations and guidelines to help protect endangered Southern Resident killer whales (SRKW) and other marine mammals. Avoid approaching SRKW, and at minimum stay the required distance away.
Boaters are also encouraged to watch for the Whale Warning Flag, an optional tool from the San Juan County Marine Resources Committee that lets others know there might be whales nearby. If you see the flag, slow down and follow guidelines. For more on how to keep marine life and yourself safe, including specific laws, visit the Be Whale Wise website.
Wild Washington Youth Education
For a fun and educational family activity, explore Washington's endangered species together. Start by researching local species such as the pygmy rabbit or the Pacific lamprey, using resources from our family education webpage.
You can plan a visit to see local habitats where these species live, like wildlife areas or parks. Then engage your children by creating habitat models using cardboard, paint, and natural materials. Encourage discussions on conservation efforts and ways to protect these species.
Habitat at Home: Help hydrate wildlife
Summer is officially here! Unfortunately, that means the small pools of water that wildlife in Washington rely on are drying up.
Help wildlife stay hydrated by adding a bird bath and pollinator puddle to your Habitat at Home. Placing water features in the shade will keep the water cool and prevent it from drying up quickly. Change water daily to dissuade mosquitoes.
Look out for invasive European green crabs
Summer fun is just around the corner. While you enjoy your favorite outdoor activities around Washington's waters, be on the lookout for European green crabs.
Use our simple "5 Point" approach to identify this aquatic invasive species:
- 5 points outside of the eyes
- 4 inches or smaller
- 3 rostral bumps between the eyes
- 2 semi-flattened rear swimming legs
- 1 enormous threat to our native shellfish and aquatic habitat
Join us in the fight against this invasive species. If you spot a European green crab using these 5 points, report it at wdfw.wa.gov/greencrab.
Join the WDFW team
If you’d enjoy preserving, protecting, and perpetuating the state’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities, then check out some of our current job openings or sign up for job alerts. From fish hatchery specialists to environmental engineers and budget analysts to wildlife biologists, a career with WDFW makes a difference.
Volunteer opportunity spotlight
WDFW welcomes volunteers of all abilities who want to contribute to the conservation of fish, wildlife, and habitat. Diverse volunteer opportunities are available, including projects on state wildlife areas and water access areas, habitat restoration projects, hunter education instruction, and assisting at outreach events.
For more information about the volunteer program and upcoming volunteer opportunities, visit the WDFW volunteer webpage.
Wildlife Program biweekly reports
To read reports published prior to 2023, visit the Biweekly Wildlife Program activity reports page.
Meet your Regional Director: Brendan Brokes
Brendan Brokes, North Puget Sound Region Director (Region 4), holds a master's degree in fisheries science from Oregon State University and has lived in the Pacific Northwest since 1987. He served as the Habitat Program Manager in this region since 2015, after filling a decade-long role as the Assistant Regional Habitat Program Manager.
Before arriving at WDFW in 2001, Brokes worked at Mount Rainier National Park as a researcher and biological technician in aquatic ecology. He also worked with the National Marine Fisheries Service monitoring foreign commercial fisheries compliance.