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.
Fishing news & important dates
The lowland lakes opener on April 27 produced decent catches of trout and if you missed out there's still plenty of time to reel in on the fun. The WDFW trout derby is also underway with more than 800 prizes available.
Tentative end of the season coastal razor clam digs at Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis and Mocrocks beaches are planned for May 6-12.
Conservation starts here
In 2024, several factors necessitate the careful conservation and management of the vulnerable Snohomish wild Chinook stock.
Rockfish are often incorrectly called “sea bass”, but are in fact a family of fish from the genus Sebastes separate from sea bass and perch.
WDFW is looking for public feedback on introducing bull trout to Sullivan Lake in northeast Washington
