20 Best Fishing Destinations in Washington State

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There’s a certain kind of quiet that only exists in Washington at dawn. Mist lifts off rivers, alpine lakes sit still like glass, and the coast hums softly as tides shift and seabirds circle overhead. Fishing here never feels rushed. It’s slow mornings and steady casts, thermos coffee and stories passed down between generations.

What makes Washington special is the variety. You can fly fish a clear river winding through farmland, troll deep mountain lakes framed by peaks, or cast from a saltwater pier without ever leaving the city. There are places perfect for seasoned anglers chasing trophy fish, and places where kids catch their very first trout from a dock.

Coastal & Saltwater Fishing

Westport – Ocean Shores

About the Area: Westport is Washington’s ocean-fishing capital. Charter boats leave the harbor daily during salmon season, and the jetties are great for those who prefer to stay on shore. Expect sea breezes, seabirds, and that classic coastal energy that makes fishing here feel like an adventure. Fees: Charter trips start around $175–$250 per person. Directions: Take Hwy 12 west from Olympia, then follow signs to Westport.

• Best for: Salmon, halibut, lingcod, rockfish

• Fishing style: Charter boats, jetty, surf

• Skill level: Beginner to advanced

• Fees: Charters ~$175–$250 per person

• Directions: Hwy 12 west from Olympia

Good to Know: Morning trips usually offer calmer ocean conditions.

Puget Sound

About the Area: Puget Sound offers excellent saltwater fishing right near the city, with piers, beaches, and boats all producing salmon. Ferries glide by while the sun dips behind the Olympic Mountains. Places like Edmonds, Dash Point, and Seattle’s waterfront parks blend urban life with sweeping water views. It’s fishing that feels accessible and scenic at the same time.

• Best for: Salmon, sea-run cutthroat trout

• Fishing style: Pier, shoreline, boat

• Skill level: Beginner-friendly options available

Good to Know: Regulations vary by zone — always check before you go.

Freshwater Lakes

Lake Chelan

About the Area: At 50 miles long and ringed with mountains, Lake Chelan is both beautiful and bountiful. Deep, clear waters make it a paradise for trolling, and shore fishing is great near the state park. The town of Chelan mixes laid-back lake life with wineries, parks, and marinas. Surrounded by mountains, it’s an easy place to turn a fishing trip into a full vacation.

• Fees: Washington freshwater license required.

• Directions: Hwy 97A north from Wenatchee, then follow signs to Chelan.

• Best for: Kokanee, lake trout, rainbow trout

• Best season: Spring through fall

• Fishing style: Trolling, shore fishing

• Location: North Central Washington

High Mountain Lakes (Cascade Range)

About the Area: Hundreds of remote alpine lakes await those willing to hike a few miles. These are quiet, wild, and breathtaking — the perfect combination of fishing and solitude. Tip: Pack light and bring a float tube for extra fun.

• Location: Cascade Mountains

• Best For: Brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout

Banks Lake

About the Area: Set beneath towering basalt cliffs, Banks Lake is a standout Eastern Washington destination. Early mornings here are especially calm and productive. Near Grand Coulee, the landscape feels bold and open. Sunrises and sunsets reflecting off the cliffs are unforgettable.

• Best for: Walleye, bass, trout

• Fishing style: Boat, shore

• Location: Near Grand Coulee

Rufus Woods Reservoir

About the Area: Famous for its massive “megabows,” Rufus Woods consistently produces trophy rainbow trout. Wide skies and rolling hills give this reservoir a quiet, expansive feel, especially in the early hours.

• Best for: Giant rainbow trout

• Fishing style: Shore, boat

• Location: Between Bridgeport and Coulee Dam

Potholes Reservoir

About the Area: A unique landscape of dunes and islands, this is one of Washington’s most fun and productive warm-water lakes. With camping and boat rentals nearby, this is an easy place to turn a fishing trip into a weekend adventure.

• Best for: Bass, walleye, perch

• Fishing style: Boat, shore

• Location: Near Moses Lake

Lake Washington

About the Area: Right in the heart of Seattle, Lake Washington is surprisingly diverse. Whether you cast from a dock or paddle out in a kayak, there’s always a bite waiting. City skylines, marinas, and waterfront parks frame the lake, making it ideal for fishing without leaving town.

• Best for: Perch, trout, bass

• Fishing style: Dock, kayak, boat

• Location: Seattle metro area

American Lake

About the Area: Locals love this clear lake for its easy access and great variety. Parks, piers, and open shoreline make this lake especially welcoming for families and casual anglers. This is also a great place for kids. Clear water makes this an ideal swimming location, and it has a beautiful view of Mt. Rainier.

• Best for: Kokanee, bass, perch

• Fishing style: Dock, shore

• Location: Pierce County (near Tacoma)

Fish Lake (Chelan County)

About the Area: Near Leavenworth, the surrounding forest and mountain scenery make this a relaxing escape year-round. A peaceful, smaller lake surrounded by forest — perfect for kayaking and fishing in the same day. Winter brings ice-fishing, too!

• Best for: Trout, perch

• Fishing style: Shore, kayak

• Location: Near Leavenworth

Rivers & Streams

Yakima River

About the Area: Flowing through canyons and farmland, the Yakima River is a fly-fishing favorite. The calm sections are perfect for float trips or wading. Access near Ellensburg and Cle Elum makes this river easy to explore, with wide-open skies and golden hills.

• Best for: Rainbow, cutthroat trout

• Fishing style: Fly fishing

• Location: Central Washington

• Directions: Access via Ellensburg or Cle Elum.

Good to Know: Many sections are catch-and-release only.

Columbia River

About the Area:This mighty river is legendary for its salmon runs and monster-sized sturgeon. From Vancouver to the Tri-Cities, you’ll find ample access points and guided trips year-round.

• Fees: Freshwater license + Columbia River endorsement

• Location: Southern Washington border

• Best For: Salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon

Spokane River

About the Area: Running right through the city, the Spokane River is an urban gem. There are several parks and pull-offs where you can fish while listening to the rush of waterfalls nearby. Riverfront parks and walking paths make this a family favorite.

• Best for: Rainbow trout, smallmouth bass

• Fishing style: Shore, wading

• Location: Eastern Washington

Methow River

About the Area: Tucked in the Methow Valley near Winthrop, this river offers year-round action and unbeatable scenery. Fly-fishers love it for its crystal-clear water and active trout.

• Best for: Steelhead, rainbow trout

• Fishing style: Fly fishing

• Location: North Central Washington

Skagit River

About the Area: The Skagit’s glacial-green waters flow through lush forested valleys. It’s one of the best places to experience the excitement of salmon season — especially from August through October

• Best for: Salmon, steelhead, trout

• Fishing style: Shore, drift

• Location: Northwest Washington

Queets River

About the Area: Moss-covered trees and misty air make this one of the most atmospheric fishing spots in the state. Remote and untamed, the Queets winds through old-growth rainforest inside Olympic National Park. The drive alone is worth the trip, but the fishing is phenomenal too.

• Best for: Winter steelhead

• Fishing style: Shore, wading

• Location: Olympic Peninsula

Cowlitz River

About the Area: One of the state’s top salmon rivers. The fishing here is exciting, with strong runs and great accessibility near the town of Toledo. The river stays busy during peak season — and for good reason.

• Best for: Chinook, coho salmon, steelhead

• Fishing style: Shore, boat

• Location: Southwest Washington

Puyallup River

About the Area: During the fall runs, the banks of the Puyallup fill with excited anglers — and for good reason. Easy access, fast-flowing water, and lots of fish make it a favorite.

• Best for: Salmon

• Fishing style: Shore

• Location: South Puget Sound

Nisqually River

About the Area: This beautiful river flows from Mount Rainier into Puget Sound. It’s a scenic spot to fish, surrounded by nature and wildlife. Views of Mount Rainier and quiet riverbanks create a peaceful setting.

• Best for: Salmon, trout

• Fishing style: Shore

• Location: Thurston and Pierce Counties

Nooksack River

About the Area: Close to the Canadian border, the Nooksack offers pristine fishing with a view of Mount Baker in the background — a picture-perfect finale to your fishing tour of Washington.

• Best for: Salmon, steelhead

• Fishing style: Shore, drift

• Location: Near Bellingham

Family-Friendly Fishing: Tips and Requirements

Many of these fishing spots are pet and kid-friendly, making them perfect for a family outing. Popular locations like the Spokane River are great for little ones, with numerous picnic areas and easy access. Just remember to bring a few essential items like snacks, sunscreen, and, of course, your fishing gear!

Now, if you’re planning to venture out to these top spots, here are our must-have items:

• Fishing License: Always ensure you have a valid Washington fishing license!

• Appropriate Gear: Depending on your fishing style, this could include a fishing rod, reel, tackle box, and lures specific to the location.

• Comfortable Clothing: Weather in Washington can change quickly, so dress in layers.

• Safety Equipment: Have a first aid kit and life jackets if you’re fishing from a boat.

• · Fishing License (freshwater, saltwater, or combo)

• · Rod and reel combo (matched to lake, river, or saltwater fishing)

• · Tackle box with lures, hooks, weights, and swivels

• · Fishing line and extra leaders

• · Polarized sunglasses to reduce glare

• · Sunscreen and weather-appropriate layers

• · Cooler for drinks, snacks, and your catch

  With Kids:

• · Kid-friendly fishing rod and reel combo

• · Life jacket or personal flotation device

• · Small tackle box with easy-to-use bobbers and hooks

• · Hat and polarized sunglasses for sun protection

• · Snacks, water bottles, and wipes

• · Bucket or net for safely viewing fish before release

Finally, don’t forget to check local regulations and guidelines for fishing in each area. Catch-and-release practices are encouraged in many places to help preserve the fish population.

Fishing With Pups

Many Washington lakes and riverbanks welcome leashed dogs, making it easy to bring your four-legged companion along. Always bring fresh water, watch cold currents, and keep an eye on changing conditions so everyone stays safe and comfortable.

• · Dog life jacket (especially for rivers and lakes)

• · Portable water bowl and fresh drinking water

• · Leash and harness (many areas require dogs to be leashed)

• · Cooling mat or shade cover for warm days

• · Towel for drying off after swimming

• · Dog-safe treats for a well-earned reward

Final Thoughts:

Whether you’re casting into surf at Westport or watching the sun rise over Lake Chelan, fishing in Washington has a way of slowing time. Every cast carries a story, and every shoreline holds the promise of the next one. Pack your gear, follow the water, and let Washington decide where your next memory begins.