Nearly two dozen lakes across Eastern Washington open March 1 for trout fishing

OLYMPIA – Nearly two dozen Eastern Washington lakes open March 1 for trout fishing, Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) announced today. Many of these lakes offer excellent late-winter fishing opportunities for rainbow trout, as well as yellow perch, burbot, cutthroat trout, brown trout, crappie, bass, walleye, and bluegill. 

Depending on the severity of late winter weather, lakes east of the Cascade Crest may still be iced over. WDFW does not monitor ice conditions, so it’s wise to stay off the ice if you don't know it is safe. Find advice about ice fishing and safety in WDFW’s recent blog.

“If you're prepared for the conditions, early March can be a great time to fish Eastern Washington’s lakes,” said Steve Caromile, WDFW statewide inland fish program manager. “Safety is key. Ice conditions vary, and it’s important to check thickness before stepping out. Make sure you have the right gear, a plan, and never go alone. Taking precautions can make for both a safe and successful trip.”

Recent surveys at Quincy and Burke lakes in Grant County found 12- to 13-inch rainbow trout, plus larger trout measuring over 14 inches. Within the Quincy Lakes Unit of the Columbia Basin Wildlife Area, there are many walk-in opportunities, including Cliff, Crystal, Cup, and Upper and Lower Spring lakes. These quiet lakes can provide good fishing for trout in the 12- to 14-inch range, with some fish reaching up to 20 inches.   

Martha and Upper Caliche lakes near George in Grant County are both popular March 1 destinations. The lakes offer good fishing for 11- to 13-inch rainbow trout with the opportunity to catch trout up to 20 inches. The north section of Martha Lake is usually ice-free with plenty of shoreline space. 

Additional Grant County waters opening March 1 under selective gear rules include Dusty, Dry Falls, Lenore, Lenice, and Nunnally lakes.  

In Columbia County, bank fishing only is available off the Tucannon River is at Rainbow, Deer, and Watson lakes. Spring and Blue lakes are open year-round, and WDFW will stock them this spring.     

Pampa Pond in Whitman County opens March 1 for rainbow trout fishing. Fish Hook Pond in Walla Walla County is open year-round. Both are open for bank fishing only and the ponds often warm early, providing good early spring fishing opportunities.     

The greater Spokane region has several March 1 openers including Liberty, Amber, Downs, and Medical lakes. Amber and Medical lakes are managed under selective gear rules. 

In Lincoln County, Coffeepot Lake also opens March 1 with selective gear rules in effect.

In South Central Washington, many lakes in Benton, Franklin, Kittitas, and Yakima counties are open year-round. 

Anglers can visit WDFW’s lowland lakes webpage to search by lake, county, or species for fishing information. Weekly stocking reports are posted on the fish stocking webpage.  

Before heading out, check the Washington Sport Fishing Rules or the Fish Washington® app for details on regulations. The emergency rules webpage shares rule updates affecting fisheries. 

Washington anglers must have a valid fishing license, which they can buy online or at hundreds of license dealers across the state. Anglers parking at WDFW-managed vehicle water-access areas are required to display the WDFW Vehicle Access Pass, provided when you buy eligible annual fishing licenses, or a Discover Pass. Anglers visiting Washington State Parks or Department of Natural Resources lands need a Discover Pass. Find information on parking passes at WDFW’s website.  

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect and perpetuate fish, wildlife and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.