Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Cedar River - Renton - Washington

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January No Significant Hatches All Day #16 - #20 Nymphs and Streamers
February No Significant Hatches All Day #16 - #20 Nymphs and Streamers
March Midges Afternoon #18 - #24 Zebra Midge, Black Beauty
April Midges, Blue Winged Olives Morning/Evening #18-#26, #16-#20 Griffith's Gnat, BWO Sparkle Dun
May Caddis, Blue Winged Olives Afternoon/Evening #14 - #20 Elk Hair Caddis, BWO Sparkle Dun
June Stoneflies, Caddis Afternoon/Evening #8 - #16 Stimulator, Elk Hair Caddis
July Stoneflies, Caddis, Mayflies Afternoon/Evening #8 - #16 Stimulator, Elk Hair Caddis, Adams
August Stoneflies, Caddis, Terrestrials Afternoon/Evening #8 - #16, #12 - #20 Stimulator, Elk Hair Caddis, Hoppers, Ants
September Blue Winged Olives, Terrestrials Afternoon/Evening #16 - #20, #12 - #20 BWO Sparkle Dun, Hoppers, Ants
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon/Evening #16 - #20 BWO Sparkle Dun
November No Significant Hatches All Day #16 - #20 Nymphs and Streamers
December No Significant Hatches All Day #16 - #20 Nymphs and Streamers

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Cedar River in Renton provides several excellent sites for fly fishing. It has a healthy population of Pacific Salmon and Steelhead, making it a paradise for fly fishers. Here are the top spots for a successful fishing experience:

  • Renton Library: Located right over the river, the area surrounding Renton Library offers deep pools that are excellent for fly fishing.
  • Cavanaugh Pond Natural Area: This spot provides a serene environment to fish and is brimming with Steelhead.
  • Cedar River Trail Park: This park has a 3.4-mile loop trail featured with river views and is a common spot for salmon fishing during late summer and fall.
  • Maplewood Roadside Park: This park offers easy access to the river, making it a popular place for fly-fishing lovers.
  • Landsburg Park: Towards the upstream of Cedar River, this location provides excellent fishing opportunities, especially during the fish migration season.

Best Access Points

The Cedar River – Renton is a haven for anglers looking for the thrill of fly fishing. A few of the best access points to start your fishing journey are:

  • Jones Park: Offers great shoreline access to various points along the river.
  • Cedar River Park: Besides offering a great fishing spot, it also provides facilities like restrooms and picnic areas.
  • Renton Whitewater Park: The park’s weir provides a profound fishing location, especially during the salmon run.

Remember to check local fishing regulations and guidelines, as certain restrictions may apply due to seasonal closures or species protection. Always practice Catch and Release to ensure sustainability of the fish population in the Cedar River.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout: Very common in the Cedar River, good fighters and can be caught on a variety of flies.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Native to the Pacific Northwest, a favorite among many anglers for their aggressive strikes.
  • Steelhead: A migratory form of rainbow trout, considered by many to be the ultimate fly fishing challenge.
  • Chinook Salmon: The largest of the North American salmon species, can be challenging but incredibly rewarding.
  • Chum Salmon: Often overlooked by anglers but provide an exciting fight when caught on the fly.
  • Coho Salmon: Known for their acrobatic leaps and hard fights, a great species for fly fishing.
  • Pacific Lamprey: Lesser known species but can be a fun and unique target for fly fishing.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Abundant in the Cedar River, not as sought after as the trout and salmon species but can provide good action on lighter tackle.

About The River

The Cedar River is not just a body of water near Renton, Washington, but a vital part of the region’s history and local ecosystem. From time immemorial, Native American tribes like the Duwamish and Snoqualmie relied on it for salmon fishing.

The river got its name from the Western Red Cedar trees dotting its banks. Europeans settlers started taking note of it in the mid-19th century. The river even witnessed a transformation during the Klondike Gold Rush, where it served as a hydraulic power source!

Some key features of this river today include:

  • Recreation: As a popular site for floating, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
  • Ecosystem: Home to various species including salmon, bald eagles, and deer.
  • Source of water: Supplies quality drinking water to over a million King County residents.

From its powerful history to its essential role today, the Cedar River truly is Renton’s flowing jewel!

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