Fishing & Shellfishing
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
Want to fish in Washington? Keep up to date with the latest fishing rules and regulations.
Shellfish harvesters have an assortment of opportunities in Washington.
Whether hiking to a remote lake or heading out for a day on the ocean, fishing opportunities abound in Washington.
Find information about the latest creel and stocking reports in Washington waters.
Learn about fishing techniques and equipment, along with suggested preparation and cooking methods.
A guide to how WDFW manages fish and shellfish.
Learn how the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works with tribes to co-manage the state's fisheries.
Fish and shellfish harvested in Washington waters make their way to markets around the world.
Learn about upcoming adult and youth fishing contests and events around the state
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
Some coastal areas, Westport Boat Basin open to crab
Crabbing is open in Westport Boat Basin and Point Chehalis northward. Any crab caught in the basin or North of Point Chehalis should be cleaned thoroughly with viscera removed before consumption – as currently recommended by the Department of Health.
How to participate in the upcoming North of Falcon salmon season setting process
View a process timeline, upcoming public meetings, and opportunities to share feedback.
Conservation starts here
The science of spawning triploid trout
Manual spawning of rainbow trout happens every fall at the Spokane Hatchery, to ensure future generations of the fish are available to stock area lakes the following spring.
Marine toxic contaminants
WDFW's Toxics Biological Observation System team monitors toxic contaminants in Puget Sound and Washington's Pacific coast.
Changes to the coastal steelhead season
Frequently asked questions about changes to this year's steelhead season on rivers throughout the Washington coast.
