Two-pole endorsement

This endorsement allows anglers to use two fishing poles on most freshwater lakes, ponds, a few sections of certain rivers, and a few marine areas. The two-pole endorsement option applies to the majority of the 8,000 fishing lakes, ponds and reservoirs in Washington State.

What are the specifics?

  • The total cost for the two-pole endorsement is $14.80 (or $6 for seniors), which includes a surcharge, and transaction and dealer fees.
  • Anglers may buy an endorsement for a second fishing pole at an authorized license dealer or through WDFW's online licensing system.  
  • All fishing rules and regulations still apply. See the Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet.
  • Anglers with a valid two-pole endorsement may use up to three hooks on each line.

For more information, call WDFW’s licensing department at 360-902-2464.

Exclusions

Two-pole fishing is allowed on most lakes, ponds and reservoirs across the state. There are bodies of water that are excluded from the use of the two-pole endorsement because of conservation and fishery management goals.  For most lakes, ponds and reservoirs the two pole fishing rules will not change on a yearly basis, but the list can and will change to take advantage of abundant fish numbers or to help assist with fishery management goals. To ensure that a two-pole endorsement for any water is valid, please check the Two-Pole Endorsement exclusion list (PDF).

Criteria for excluded lakes, ponds and reservoirs:

  • Lakes containing ESA-listed species, determined on a case-by-case basis
  • Lakes connected to anadromous waters during fisheries for anadromous fish, i.e., salmon
  • Lakes managed for natural trout production
  • Juvenile only lakes
  • Select lakes with fly fishing only, selective gear, or a reduced daily bag limit for trout regulations, determined on a case-by-case basis

Generally, two-pole fishing is not allowed in saltwater, or in rivers, streams and beaver ponds. However, WDFW is always evaluating areas and times when surplus fish may be available for harvest and the two-pole option could be allowed.