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.

A fishing boat on the water in a foggy sunrise.
Photo by Chase Gunnell

Fishing news & important dates

Sunrise photo of people fishing on the beach.
Photo by Blue Haught
The Salmon Fishing Current blog: North of Falcon 2025 edition

The 2025-2026 Washington recreational salmon fishing seasons were tentatively set and are scheduled to be adopted by NOAA Fisheries in early June. You can read the North of Falcon reflections by Kelly Cunningham, WDFW Fish Program Director.

Rainy day rainbow
Photo by Noel Brandon
WDFW opens lowland lakes statewide April 26; marks 10th anniversary of popular Trout Derby

Anglers across Washington can look forward to the start of lowland lakes fishing on April 26, with thousands of anglers expected to visit lakes statewide. This year’s opener also marks the 10th anniversary of the WDFW Trout Derby, featuring more tagged fish and prizes than ever before.

Conservation starts here

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Rockfish identification 2025 version
Photo by WDFW
Reminder about rockfish identification and retention

With the recreational bottomfishing season underway on the Washington Coast, anglers are reminded about rockfish rules.

Side view of a spot shrimp on boat railing.
Photo by WDFW
Recreational spot shrimp fishery to open May 21 in many Puget Sound marine areas

Marine areas 10 outside Elliott Bay, 11, and 13 will remain closed due to low estimated spot shrimp abundance. Additional dates may be announced if quota remains after the initial shrimp fishing days.

Close up of adult coho in spawning colors.
Photo by WDFW
WDFW seeks public input on Lower Columbia River tributary fisheries

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) is asking for public input on management strategies for salmon and steelhead in Lower Columbia River tributary fisheries.

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