Washington Fly Fishing Reports
River Reports - Click a river below
Bogachiel River – Forks
Calawah River – Forks
Cedar River – Cedar Falls
Cedar River – Cedar Falls Powerplant
Cedar River – Renton
Columbia River – Vancouver
Cowlitz River – Below Mayfield Dam
Elwha River – McDonald Bridge
Hoh River – Forks
Methow River – Pateros
Middle Fork Snoqualmie River – Tanner
Naselle River – Naselle
North Fork Snoqualmie River – Snoqualmie Falls
Queets River – Clearwater
Quinault River – Quinault Lake
Quinault River – Taholah
Sauk River – Sauk
Skagit River – Concrete
Skykomish River – Gold Bar
Snoqualmie River – Carnation
Snoqualmie River – Snoqualmie
South Fork Snoqualmie River – Edgewick
South Fork Snoqualmie River – Garcia
South Fork Snoqualmie River – North Bend
Yakima River – Kiona
Yakima River – Umtanum
Calawah River – Forks
Cedar River – Cedar Falls
Cedar River – Cedar Falls Powerplant
Cedar River – Renton
Columbia River – Vancouver
Cowlitz River – Below Mayfield Dam
Elwha River – McDonald Bridge
Hoh River – Forks
Methow River – Pateros
Middle Fork Snoqualmie River – Tanner
Naselle River – Naselle
North Fork Snoqualmie River – Snoqualmie Falls
Queets River – Clearwater
Quinault River – Quinault Lake
Quinault River – Taholah
Sauk River – Sauk
Skagit River – Concrete
Skykomish River – Gold Bar
Snoqualmie River – Carnation
Snoqualmie River – Snoqualmie
South Fork Snoqualmie River – Edgewick
South Fork Snoqualmie River – Garcia
South Fork Snoqualmie River – North Bend
Yakima River – Kiona
Yakima River – Umtanum
State overview
- Diverse Water Bodies: Washington offers a unique fly fishing experience with its rich mix of glacial lakes, rushing rivers, and saltwater shores, catering to all preferences whether you seek salmon, trout, or steelhead.
- Scenic Settings: The state’s stunning natural landscapes, from the lush forests of the Olympic Peninsula to the rugged peaks of the Cascade Range, provide not just superb fishing but a tranquil escape into nature.
- Year-Round Fishing: Thanks to Washington’s varied climate zones and abundant water resources, anglers can enjoy fly fishing throughout the year, making it a perfect destination for both seasoned and novice fishermen.
Fishing Regulations
- License Requirements: In Washington, anyone aged 15 and older must have a fishing license to fish or shellfish in state waters. Special catch record cards are required for targeting species like salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, and Puget Sound Dungeness crab.
- Where to Buy: Licenses can be purchased online, by phone, or at one of the many license dealers across the state. Immediate fishing plans may require a visit to a dealer to receive necessary documents like catch record cards on the spot.
- Additional Permits: Beyond basic licensing, enhancements and special permits are available, including endorsements for expanded fishing opportunities and group fishing permits for educational or organizational activities.
For detailed information on types and costs of licenses or to make a purchase, visit the official Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife licensing page.
Conservation Efforts
- Trout Unlimited (Washington Council): This organization is a powerhouse in the realm of aquatic conservation, dedicating efforts across ten chapters in Washington to restore and protect waterways for salmon, steelhead, and trout. Their initiatives include stream restoration, youth education, and advocacy for sustainable water management practices. For more on their projects and how to get involved, visit Washington Council of Trout Unlimited.
- Washington Fly Fishing Club (WFFC): Established in 1939, the WFFC promotes conservation through education and active participation in habitat enhancement projects. The club also runs the WFFC Foundation, which supports fisheries research and conservation education. Learn more about their work at Washington Fly Fishing Club.
- Northwest Youth Conservation and Fly Fishing Academy: Sponsored by the Washington Council of Trout Unlimited, this academy teaches young anglers about fly fishing while instilling a strong conservation ethic. The program includes hands-on activities like fly tying and understanding river ecosystems, aiming to nurture future stewards of aquatic environments. Details on their programs can be found at Northwest Youth Conservation and Fly Fishing Academy.