Sitting just south of the Canadian border, Washington is a prime destination for anglers in the United States. Although there is plenty of saltwater fishing in the western part of the state, the northeastern region is home to major rivers and several large lakes. With its many natural resources, the northeastern area of Washington has excellent facilities for freshwater fishing.
Locations
Freshwater fishing is abundant in northeastern Washington. Home to several state parks and mountainous terrain, the region has natural and manmade lakes that are suitable for fishing. Home to the Columbia River and the Coulee Dam, anglers in northeastern Washington can also enjoy fishing for a selection of marine life in Lake Roosevelt, which offers over 500 miles of shoreline. Further east, Lake Sullivan is also a popular fishing spot, especially for trout, according to the website All About Fishing.
Types of Fish
Lake Roosevelt is home to 30 types of freshwater fish, including species of trout and sturgeon. Trout fishing is popular in northeastern Washington because these fish inhabit colder waters. The Methow River, near the Cascade Mountains, has a plentiful supply of whitefish, several species of salmon and trout, as well as west slope cutthroat. In the glacial lakes of the northeastern part of the state, you can also find small-mouth bass, according to travel website Destination360.
Seasons
Northeastern Washington experiences mild to hot summers and cold winters. The main fishing season is between mid-April and the beginning of October although, according to Destination 360, the fishing seasons in the lakes last slightly longer than those in the rivers. Some lakes remain open year-round but northeastern Washington can experience extreme cold during the winter and fish stocks are most plentiful during the warmer summer months.
Licenses
Like other U.S. states, you will need a license to fish in Washington. Anyone older than the age of 15 must have a fishing permit before dipping a line. Annual licenses are available but visitors can also purchase shorter-term permits that last for between one and five days. Permit costs differ for Washington residents and nonresidents.
Considerations
Although permits are needed for anglers older than age 15, children under this age have to fill out a catch record card if they are fishing for steelhead or salmon on the Columbia River or its tributaries. You can get these cards from the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife. Different freshwater lakes and rivers have different regulations concerning bait and catch limits so ensure you check the local rules of your destination before arriving.
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