Washington Fishing Reports
Washington Fishing Reports
Fishing the Sol Duc River
Fishing the Sol Duc River near Forks Deep in Washington's rainforest country, the Sol Duc River has earned a reputation as one of the Olympic Peninsula's premier steelhead and salmon fisheries. It's a river that rewards anglers willing to work for it, offering wild, healthy runs and the kind of moss-draped, old-growth scenery that makes every trip feel like an adventure, not just a fishing outing. While floating the river in a drift boat or raft requires expert-level skill, shore fishing options are abundant and a number of professional guides are available for hire. Where is the Sol Duc River The Sol Duc River flows about 78 miles west through the Olympic Peninsula, starting in the Olympic Mountains within Olympic National Park and Olympic National Forest before winding through the broad Sol Duc Valley toward the coast. Near Forks, Washington it joins the Bogachiel River to form the Quillayute River, which reaches the ocean at La Push. The river runs through classic Olympic Peninsula rainforest, dense, green, and often misty, with a mix of national park water upstream and more accessible public and private land downstream near the town of Forks. Highway 101 runs fairly close to the river for much of its course, making bank access more practical here than on some of its neighboring rivers. From Seattle, reaching the Sol Duc is a genuine peninsula trip, typically 3.5 to 4 hours depending on your route, either by taking the Bainbridge or Kingston ferry and following Highway 101 around through Port Angeles, or driving the long way around Hood Canal via Highway 101 without a ferry. It's one of the farther destinations in this guide series, but the Sol Duc's reputation as one of the healthiest wild steelhead rivers in the Pacific Northwest draws anglers from across the state and beyond. Sol Duc River Map What you can catch in the Sol Duc River The Sol Duc is genuinely special among Olympic Peninsula rivers, supporting all five species of Pacific salmon along with resident and sea-run cutthroat trout. It's the only tributary in the Quillayute system that holds a run of spring Chinook, and it also sees fall Chinook, sockeye in June and July, and both a summer and fall coho run, with the upper river considered prime coho spawning water. Winter steelhead are the river's headline fishery, supported by some of the healthiest wild steelhead stocks left in the region, alongside a smaller summer steelhead run. Because wild fish are such a priority on this river, regulations around retention, gear restrictions, and closed sections are detailed and change often, so confirming current WDFW rules before any trip is not optional here. Sol Duc River hosts some of the best returns of salmon and steelhead on the Washington Coast. Sol Duc River Fishing Seasons Spring brings the tail end of winter steelhead, which can still be found in the river well into April, overlapping with the arrival of spring Chinook starting in March and building through mid-April. This overlap of two strong fisheries makes spring one of the more exciting windows on the Sol Duc, especially for anglers hoping to swing into either species in the same outing. Flows are typically still elevated from winter rains and snowmelt, so timing a trip around stable weather helps. Float fishing with bobbers and a cured salmon roe/sand shrimp cocktail is the go-to technique for Springers, but also twitching jigs and back-trolling bait divers, spin-n-glo and sand shrimp will get you bit. Summer shifts the focus to summer steelhead, generally running from June through September, along with sockeye passing through in June and July and the notably early summer coho run that returns in August and September, ahead of most other Olympic Peninsula coho runs. The upper river within Olympic National Park, reached via Sol Duc Hot Springs Road, opens for the summer season and offers good trout fishing for sea-run and resident cutthroat and rainbow trout. The river tends to run clear and stable in summer, making it a comfortable season for wading and covering water. Finesse fishing with a bobber and steelhead jig or soft bead is a great way to approach the Sol Duc during the summer, but don’t discount the effectiveness of swinging a Steelhead Slammer Spinner through the many boulder pockets the river offers. Fall brings salmon fishing into full swing, with coho continuing into October and November alongside a fall Chinook run. Coho enter the river with the rain, and fly anglers in particular consider the period right after a good rain event to be prime time for coho on the Sol Duc. This is also when guided salmon trips on the Olympic Peninsula rivers pick up, with October and November drawing anglers from around the region for a shot at some of the state's best fall salmon runs. The Blue Fox Vibrax Spinner is probably the best lure for Sol Duc fall salmon, but you’ll also be successful with twitching jigs, bobber and bait, or back-trolling Kwikfish in higher flows. Winter is when the Sol Duc truly shines. Winter steelhead fishing generally runs from January into April, drawing dedicated anglers willing to brave cold water, short days, and harsh weather for a shot at wild rainforest steelhead alongside a run of hatchery fish. Because the Sol Duc starts high in the mountains and is one of the first Olympic Peninsula rivers to clear after a storm, it's often the most reliable, fishable option in the region during the wettest months, which is part of why it's frequently recommended as the best starting point for anglers new to Olympic Peninsula steelhead fishing. Steelhead jigs fished under a bobber is a great way to pick apart all the holding water between the boulders. Once the wild fish show up, steelhead worms are a great way to target the trophies. Sol Duc Falls in the upper watershed. Olympic National Park. Best Fishing Spots on the Sol Duc River The Sol Duc Salmon Hatchery, and Whitcomb Dimmel are widely used starting points, offering multiple WDFW access sites, parking, and clear paths to the water that make it easy to find good water without deep local knowledge. Much of the river can be reached from pullouts along Highway 101, which runs close to the river for a good stretch of its lower and middle sections. Upstream, the Sol Duc Hot Springs Road provides access into the national park water, open during the summer season and known for its trout fishing. Because the river's water speed and structure change frequently, from tighter pocket water to longer runs with easier gradient downstream, a drift boat lets experienced anglers cover more ground, though novice boaters are generally advised to stick to bank fishing or hire a guide for their first trip. Fishing on the Sol Duc River The Sol Duc is a river that rewards patience and adaptability. Its pocket water and shifting currents mean short, well-placed casts often outperform long ones, and switch or spey rods are popular for covering water efficiently. Because this river carries such significant wild steelhead value, regulations change often, including gear restrictions, bait rules, wild release requirements, and occasional emergency closures tied to low flows or weak returns, so checking the current WDFW regulations and any in-season updates before every trip is essential. For a first Olympic Peninsula steelhead trip, many local guides recommend starting here, since the Sol Duc tends to be the most consistent river in the area, the last to blow out after heavy rain and the first to clear again. Come prepared to work for it, and the Sol Duc offers some of the most rewarding wild steelhead and salmon fishing anywhere in Washington. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Safyre Salmon Steelhead Float Fishing Combo
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Fishing at Grays Harbor
Fishing at Grays Harbor Where river meets ocean, Grays Harbor delivers one of the most complete fishing experiences in Washington. This protected estuary gives small-boat anglers access to some of the best salmon fishing on the coast, backed up by crabbing, bottomfish, and a network of feeder rivers that keep the action going nearly year-round. Where is Grays Harbor Grays Harbor is a large, protected estuary on Washington's southern coast, formed where the Chehalis, Humptulips, Wynoochee, and Satsop rivers converge before draining into the Pacific Ocean between Ocean Shores and Westport. The harbor itself is broad and relatively sheltered compared to the open ocean, which makes it a favorite for small-boat anglers who might otherwise think twice about running offshore. The surrounding towns, Aberdeen, Hoquiam, Westport, and Ocean Shores, offer a working-harbor character mixed with classic coastal tourism, giving the area a lived-in, genuinely local feel rather than a purely resort destination. From Seattle, Grays Harbor is a manageable trip, generally around 2 to 2.5 hours depending on your destination within the harbor, typically down I-5 and then west on Highway 8 and Highway 12 toward Aberdeen, or continuing on to Westport and Ocean Shores via Highway 105 or 109. That drive time puts Grays Harbor in the same range as the Cowlitz or Kalama, making it a realistic weekend destination, or even a long day trip, for Seattle-based anglers looking for a true coastal experience. Grays Harbor Map What you can catch in Grays Harbor Grays Harbor is best known for big Chinook and coho salmon, caught inside the protected bay primarily by trolling or casting lures from shore, before the commercial fishery gets underway each fall. Steelhead, trout, and additional salmon runs move through the many rivers draining into the harbor, giving bank and drift anglers plenty to chase well beyond the bay itself. Sturgeon and perch are available to bank anglers working the harbor and surf, and just offshore, Westport-based charters put anglers on tuna, halibut, and rockfish during their respective seasons. Dungeness crab round out the harbor's appeal, with recreational crabbing open year-round on the coast, including Grays Harbor, and no catch record card required for coastal crabbing. Because the harbor sits at the mouth of several major salmon-producing rivers, it often gets first crack at fish staging before they push upstream, which is part of what makes it such a productive fishery. Westport is the hub of fishing on the harbor, with the best marina, launch and public docks for fishing and crabbing. Grays Harbor Fishing Seasons Spring is a transitional period in the harbor itself, with salmon fishing not yet in full swing, though anglers can find steelhead and trout action in the rivers feeding into Grays Harbor. It's a good season to get boats and gear ready, scout access points around Westport and Ocean Shores, and keep an eye on WDFW's season-setting announcements ahead of the busier months to come. Crabbing remains a year-round option throughout this stretch as well. Seattle Fishing Co Crabbing Gear Summer brings offshore opportunities into range for Westport-based anglers, with tuna, halibut, and rockfish seasons opening up as ocean conditions stabilize. Inside the harbor, salmon fishing is still building toward its fall peak, but crabbing stays strong and consistent, making summer a great time to combine a bottomfish or crabbing trip with some early scouting for the fall salmon run. Whether on a small boat near the harbor entrance or walking the Westport Jetty, small bullet jigheads and plastics like Kalin’s Mogambo Grubs, Berkley Gulp Grubs work well for Rockfish and Lingcod. Fall is Grays Harbor's signature season. Chinook and coho fishing inside the bay typically peaks in September and into early October, before the commercial fishery begins, drawing small boats out in force to trolling for big kings and silvers. Hatchery coho returning to the Humptulips and Chehalis systems add to the numbers, and it's not unusual to hook a salmon headed for one of the many rivers draining into the harbor even after the peak has passed. Most of the fishing action happens near Markham on the southern shore of the harbor, but there also is a really popular area in the North Bay targeting salmon migrating towards the Humptulips River. This is by far the busiest and most rewarding time of year to fish Grays Harbor, both inside the bay and in the rivers upstream. Trolling the bay with a Fish Flash and cut-plug herring is popular, as is fishing with Brad’s Cut Plugs or YBC Cut Plugs. Winter shifts the focus toward the harbor's tributary rivers, where winter steelhead provide the main draw as salmon runs wind down. Coastal crabbing remains open, though pot gear restrictions apply during parts of fall into early winter in some marine areas to protect soft-shell crab, so checking current rules matters before heading out. Weather and ocean conditions can turn rough this time of year, so winter trips on Grays Harbor tend to favor the protected rivers over open-water excursions. Chehalis River enters Grays Harbor near Aberdeen and is the primary tributary, offering boat and shore fishing for salmon each fall. Best Fishing Spots on Grays Harbor The 28th Street Ramp in Aberdeen is one of the most popular launch points for salmon anglers working the bay. Westport offers both harbor access and the gateway to offshore tuna, halibut, and rockfish charters, along with strong crabbing off the jetty and boat basin. Ocean Shores provides additional harbor access along with surf-fishing opportunities for perch. The Johns River access point adds another option for anglers working the south side of the harbor. For crabbing without a boat, piers at Float 20, the Westport Boat Basin, and the Westport jetty are reliable, easy-access spots to drop a line or a pot. Both north and south jetties at the entrance of Grays Harbor are great shore fishing spots for Rockfish, Sea Perch, Lingcod and Dungeness Crab. Fishing on Grays Harbor Because Grays Harbor sits where multiple major river systems and the open ocean all come together, regulations vary by exactly where you're fishing, whether that's the protected bay, the surrounding rivers, or the open coast, and rules can change during the season based on run strength and commercial fishery timing. Checking the current WDFW regulations pamphlet and the Fish Washington app before heading out is essential, and crabbers should note that while a catch record card isn't required on the coast, seasonal pot closures still apply in certain windows to protect soft-shell crab. With salmon, steelhead, bottomfish, crab, and even offshore tuna all within reach of one harbor, Grays Harbor offers about as much variety as any single fishing destination in the state. Seattle Fishing Co Crabbing Gear Suggested Setup: Okuma Rockaway Surf & Jetty Spinning Combo
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Fishing the Chehalis River
Fishing the Chehalis River As the largest river system on the Washington Coast, the Chehalis offers something rare, real variety without a long drive. Between the mainstem and its productive tributaries, the Chehalis basin delivers salmon and steelhead fishing for most of the year, all within a couple of hour’s drive from Seattle. Where is the Chehalis River The Chehalis River flows more than 125 miles from its headwaters in the Willapa Hills, draining the third-largest river basin in Washington before emptying into Grays Harbor at Aberdeen. Along the way it picks up major tributaries including the Wynoochee, Satsop, and Skookumchuck rivers, all of which add their own significant runs to the system. Highway 8 out of Olympia and Highway 12 through Chehalis, Centralia, and Montesano trace much of the river's course, passing through a mix of farmland, timber country, and small river towns. Because the basin is rain-fed rather than dam-regulated, flows swing dramatically between the drier summer months and the flood-prone winter season, so keeping an eye on current river conditions is especially important here. From Seattle, the upper Chehalis around the city of Chehalis is roughly 1.5 to 2 hours south via I-5. The lower river and Grays Harbor area near Aberdeen and Montesano add another 30 to 45 minutes on top of that, generally via Highway 8 and Highway 12. That makes the Chehalis one of the more time-efficient big rivers to reach from Seattle, especially given how much water and how many species it offers once you get there. Chehalis River Map What you can catch in the Chehalis River The Chehalis is best known for spring and fall Chinook salmon, a dependable coho run, strong late-fall chum fishing, winter steelhead, and sea-run cutthroat trout that show up from late summer through fall. Fall is the biggest event on the calendar, with Chinook fishing peaking in September and October and coho overlapping right alongside it. Chum salmon add late-fall action from November into December, particularly in the lower river and around tributary mouths. Winter steelhead represent the most important winter fishery in the basin, with wild steelhead requiring release throughout the system due to conservation concerns, while hatchery-marked fish from tributaries like the Wynoochee and Satsop provide the bulk of legal retention opportunities. Because the Chehalis is managed in close coordination with tribal governments under long-standing treaty rights, and because wild fish are a high conservation priority throughout the basin, rules can be detailed and change during the season, so confirming current WDFW regulations before any trip is essential. Further upriver near Elma and Porter, the Chehalis offers a variety of water types and is popular for fall salmon and winter steelhead fishing. Chehalis River Fishing Seasons Spring occasionally offers a limited fishery, centered on spring Chinook in years when WDFW predicts enough returning fish to justify opening the upper river above the Porter bridge, typically from May through July. Because this stretch supports only wild spring Chinook and steelhead, with no hatchery supplementation, the season depends heavily on the strength of that year's run. It's a specialty fishery for dedicated anglers rather than a sure thing every spring, so checking current regulations before planning a trip is a must. When open, a bobber and cured salmon roe/sand shrimp is a winning combination, as is back-trolling Kwikfish and Mag Lips wrapped with a piece of sardine on the belly. Summer is generally quieter on the mainstem, with some summer steelhead opportunities and sea-run cutthroat trout beginning to show up in the lower river and estuary as the season progresses. Lower, more stable flows make this a comfortable time to explore access points and tributary mouths, setting the stage for the busier months ahead. Many anglers use summer to scout ahead of the fall salmon run rather than fish the mainstem hard. Pitch Steelhead Slammer Spinners and Little Cleo Spoons, or float fish with a bobber and soft bead. Fall is the Chehalis basin's headline season. Chinook salmon fishing peaks through September and October, with coho running strong right alongside them and continuing to provide action into December in good years. Chum salmon join the mix in November, especially in the lower river and near major tributary confluences, and sea-run cutthroat remain available throughout the season. This is when the river and its tributaries see the heaviest angling pressure, with boats and bank anglers both working the water hard from Aberdeen up through Porter and Cedarville. Casting Brad’s Wigglers, Blue Fox Vibrax Spinners and twitching jigs is really effective for Chinook and Coho from a boat or shore. If you’re back-trolling, try a Luhr Jensen Kwikfish or Yakima Bait Mag Lip plug. Float fishing with a bobber and cured salmon roe can be a great way to target all the species of salmon in the Chehalis. Winter belongs to steelhead. The basin's winter run typically begins building in November and peaks from December through January, with anglers often following fish up into productive tributaries like the Wynoochee and Skookumchuck as the season progresses. Because wild steelhead numbers have struggled in recent years and are shared under tribal treaty rights, hatchery steelhead provide the legal retention opportunity, and season closing dates can vary by river, so checking the current WDFW emergency rules before heading out is essential this time of year. Bobber and steelhead jigs or soft beads are the top tactic, but from a boat you can have plenty of luck back-trolling Mag Lip 3.5 plugs or a bait diver, spin-n-glo and sand shrimp for Steelhead. The lower Chehalis River near the city of Aberdeen, one of the better places to troll for fall salmon in the region. Best Fishing Spots on the Chehalis River Boat ramps at Cosmopolis, Friends Landing, under the Highway 107 bridge, upstream from the Satsop River confluence at Fuller Bridge, and at Porter and Cedarville provide reliable access up and down the mainstem. The stretch above Adna toward Rainbow Falls offers meaningful bank access for anglers working the upper river during the limited spring Chinook season. Where the tributaries meet the mainstem is prime water during the fall run, so the confluences near the Satsop and Wynoochee rivers are worth prioritizing when salmon are moving through. For dedicated bank anglers, the Skookumchuck River, especially near and below its hatchery, is considered one of the best bank-fishing destinations in all of Southwest Washington, while the Wynoochee offers numerous access points of its own, including recently reopened upper stretches for drift boat and pontoon anglers. Chehalis River near the mouth of the Wynoochee River, slow, deep and meandering. Perfect place to catch Coho Salmon in the fall. Fishing on the Chehalis River Because the Chehalis is Washington's third-largest river basin and shared under significant treaty fishing rights, its regulations are genuinely complex and prone to change, particularly around wild fish retention and tributary-mouth closures designed to protect spawning fish. Checking WDFW's current emergency rule changes and the Fish Washington app before every trip isn't optional here, since closing dates and rules can vary meaningfully from one tributary to the next. Given how rain-driven the system is, watching river flow data is just as important, especially heading into winter when the basin is prone to major flood events. Fish the Chehalis with a little preparation, and its size, variety, and easy reach from Seattle make it one of the most rewarding all-around fisheries in the state. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Ceymar Salmon Spin Combo
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Fishing the Nemah River
Fishing at the Nemah River Small, wild, and tucked into one of the last uncut drainages in the Willapa Hills, the Nemah River is a true coastal gem for anglers who don't mind a little extra driving in exchange for quiet water and old-growth scenery. It's not a river you fish for numbers so much as for the experience, though a strong fall coho run gives it plenty of substance to go with the setting. Public access to this river is very limited, but with a little hard work, you can find some good fishing for Fall Salmon and Winter Steelhead. Where is the Nemah River The Nemah River system sits in Pacific County on Washington's south coast, made up of North, Middle, and South forks that wind through the Willapa Hills before emptying into Willapa Bay near the small community of Bay Center. The South Nemah flows through the South Nemah Natural Resources Conservation Area, a roughly 2,440-acre watershed prized for stands of 300-year-old western red cedar and Sitka spruce, some of the least-disturbed forest left in the region. It's a small, intimate stream system rather than a big-water destination, with a wild, undeveloped feel that stands apart from the more heavily managed rivers closer to Seattle. From Seattle, the Nemah is generally 3.5 to 4 hours depending on your route, typically down I-5 and then west toward Willapa Bay on Highway 6 or Highway 12, connecting to Highway 101 along the coast. It sits close to the Naselle River and shares a similar drive time, so anglers already making the trip out to the south coast often plan to fish both in the same outing. Nemah River Map What you can catch in the Nemah River The Nemah's biggest draw is its fall coho run. Chum salmon and Chinook are also present in the system, though catches tend to run lighter than the coho fishery, and winter steelhead move through the watershed as well, with hatchery-origin fish stocked to support the run. Only hatchery-marked Chinook and coho may generally be retained, and steelhead retention is subject to its own set of rules that can shift from year to year based on returns. The Nemah is broken into multiple regulated sections, some open to fishing and some closed entirely depending on the time of year, so getting familiar with exactly which stretch you're fishing, and what's allowed there, matters more here than on most rivers. Nemah River Fishing Seasons Summer stays relatively quiet, without a significant salmon or steelhead presence in the river during these months. Lower, clearer water can make for a nice time to walk sections of the Nemah and get a feel for the water before the fall run shows up. Fall is the Nemah's best season by a wide margin. Coho typically start showing up in good numbers in October and continue strong into November, making this the time most anglers plan their trips around. Chinook and chum salmon are also part of the fall mix, though in smaller numbers than coho, and this is generally considered the most productive and most consistent stretch of the year on the river. Float fishing with bobbers and cured salmon roe is a top tactic, as is twitching jigs and casting Blue Fox Vibrax Spinners. Winter brings the Nemah's steelhead run, supported by hatchery plants, though this is a smaller and more tightly regulated fishery than what you'll find on nearby Columbia tributaries. Certain sections of the river close entirely during winter steelhead season to protect returning fish, so it's especially important to confirm which stretches remain open before heading out. For anglers who do their homework, winter can still offer a shot at steelhead in a remote, uncrowded setting. Float fishing with a bobber and soft bead or steelhead jig can be tops here, as is swinging a Steelhead Slammer Spinner. The three forks of the Nemah converge close to Willapa Bay, meandering through marshy tidelands. Best Fishing Spots on the Nemah River Access to the Nemah is limited and the river is brushy, but with a little bit of endurance, while respecting private property postings, you can find a few fishing spots throughout the river. The Middle Nemah, from its mouth up toward the decommissioned DNR bridge on Middle Nemah A-Line Road, offers additional water, though the reach above that bridge is closed to fishing entirely. The North Nemah, from the Hancock property line up to the fishing boundary sign near the hatchery bridge, provides another option, along with limited opportunities further upstream near the hatchery dam. The Nemah River-Estuary Wildlife Area, about 15.5 miles southwest of South Bend off Highway 101, offers a scenic trail through mature conifer forest down to the estuary and is a good spot to get a feel for the lower system, even if it's better known for wildlife viewing than fishing access. Fishing on the Nemah River Because the Nemah is carved into several distinct, individually regulated sections, with some open and others closed depending on the exact time of year, it rewards anglers who take the time to read the current WDFW regulations pamphlet closely before heading out. Selective gear rules and barbless hook requirements are standard on this stretch of coast, and emergency rule changes tied to run strength are common, so checking the Fish Washington app right before a trip is a smart habit. This is not a river to fish on autopilot, but for anglers willing to do a bit of homework, the Nemah offers a genuinely wild, uncrowded slice of the Washington coast, with old-growth forest, a strong coho run, and the kind of solitude that's increasingly hard to find on more popular water. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Safyre Salmon Spinning Combo
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Fishing the Naselle River
Fishing at the Naselle River Tucked into the coastal rainforest of Pacific County, the Naselle River offers a fishing experience unlike anything closer to the city. It's a smaller, quieter coastal stream, but it produces some of the brightest, most aggressive winter steelhead in the state, along with a strong fall coho run, all set against a backdrop of misty, moss-draped forest. The lower stretch of the Naselle River is broad, marshy and tidal. Where is the Naselle River The Naselle River flows through the coastal hills of Pacific County in southwest Washington, emptying into Willapa Bay near the small community of Naselle, not far from the mouth of the Columbia River. It's a coastal system rather than a Columbia tributary, which gives it a distinctly different character from rivers like the Cowlitz or Lewis: smaller, rain-fed, and surrounded by dense, temperate rainforest rather than the drier, more open terrain found further inland. The river and its watershed feel remote and lightly developed, offering a genuine escape for anglers who want scenery and solitude to go along with their fishing. From Seattle, reaching the Naselle takes typically around 3.5 to 4 hours depending on the route, generally down I-5 before cutting west on Highway 12 or Highway 6 toward Willapa Bay, or via Highway 101 along the coast. It's one of the longer drives among the rivers covered in this series, but for anglers craving a true coastal fishing trip, the payoff in scenery and fish quality is well worth the extra hours behind the wheel. Naselle River Map What you can catch in the Naselle River The Naselle is best known for two things: winter steelhead and fall coho salmon. The winter steelhead run produces chrome-bright, aggressive fish that put up a serious fight in the tea-colored, rain-fed water typical of southwest coastal rivers. Chinook salmon are also present, along with the coho that make the Naselle one of the more productive rivers on the southern Washington coast during the fall season. Because the Naselle empties into Willapa Bay alongside several other coastal systems, including the Nemah, North, and Willapa rivers, it's often grouped together with those rivers in WDFW season announcements, and its runs can behave similarly to its neighbors. As with most coastal Washington rivers, selective gear rules and barbless hook requirements are common, and portions of the river are managed with catch-and-release-only sections, so confirming exactly which regulations apply to the stretch you plan to fish is especially important here. Naselle River Fishing Seasons Spring is a quiet season on the Naselle, with the main salmon and steelhead runs having wound down by this point in the year. Flows are typically still elevated from winter rains, and the coastal rainforest setting means the river can stay high and off-color longer than inland systems. Most anglers plan their trips for later in the year, although the river opener around Memorial Day can provide some decent trout fishing if you’re already in the area. Cast and retrieve small spinners like Roostertails and Steelhead Slammers. Summer remains a slower period on the Naselle, without the strong salmon or steelhead presence that defines the rest of the year. Lower, clearer flows during the drier months can make for pleasant scouting trips, and it's a good time to get familiar with access points and river conditions before the fall run arrives. Sea run Cutthroat can be found in the river. Fall is when the Naselle comes alive, with a strong coho run pushing through in October and November. This is considered one of the most reliable stretches of the year on the river, drawing anglers to the productive water near the hatchery and throughout the lower system. Chinook fishing opportunities are also available on the southern coast during this window, generally running into late January in most years, making fall through early winter the most consistently productive period on the Naselle. Float fishing with bobbers and cured salmon roe is a standard technique here for salmon, actually required in certain areas to limit snagging. Twitching jigs and retrieving Blue Fox Spinners in the lower river can be really effective when schools of salmon start pushing into the lower river with the tide. Winter belongs to steelhead. The Naselle's winter run typically fishes best from January through March, producing chrome-bright, hard-fighting fish in the misty, forested water that gives this river its distinct coastal character. Rain-swollen flows are common this time of year, so keeping an eye on river levels before heading out is essential, but when conditions align, winter is widely considered the signature season on the Naselle and the main draw for anglers willing to make the long drive from the Seattle area. Float fishing with bobbers and soft beads or steelhead jigs is a pretty good way to catch Steelhead here. The area around the Naselle Hatchery is one of the best places to catch a Steelhead on the river. Best Fishing Spots on the Naselle River The water around the Naselle Hatchery, including the attraction channel and the stretch nearby, is one of the most productive and well-known areas on the river, particularly for steelhead staging near the facility, though seasonal closures apply in the immediate vicinity of the attraction channel. The primary public bank access is the WDFW water access site at the Highway 4 bridge, about 1.3 miles east of Naselle, where a parking area (Discover Pass required) leads to a roughly 1.25-mile easement trail running downstream along the north bank. Anglers report the stretch from below the boat launch down to tidewater as especially productive during the fall coho run. Upriver, the water between the Bighill Bridge and the Crown Mainline (Salme) Bridge offers another actively fished stretch for anglers looking to spread out. Much of the river runs through private timberland, so anglers should stay within the posted public easement — typically a narrow 25-foot strip along the water — and pay attention to boundary markers, especially near catch-and-release-only sections close to the hatchery. Because the Naselle is a smaller system than the big Columbia tributaries, bank access along the main stem and near road crossings is the most practical way to fish it, rather than long float trips. Around the town of Naselle, the river is slow moving and a great zone to target Fall Salmon. Fishing on the Naselle River The Naselle is grouped with several other Willapa Bay-area rivers under WDFW's coastal fishing regulations, and rules here can be detailed, including specific closures, catch-and-release zones near the hatchery, and required selective gear or barbless hooks depending on the time of year. Because regulations can change with in-season run updates, checking the current WDFW regulations pamphlet or the Fish Washington app before every trip is essential, especially given how tightly some stretches near the hatchery are managed. Pack for wet, rainy conditions and elevated flows, especially in winter, and be ready for a river that rewards patience with some of the most scenic, uncrowded steelhead and salmon fishing on the Washington coast. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Safyre Salmon Spinning Combo
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Fishing the Lewis River
Fishing at the Lewis River Near Woodland The Lewis River near Woodland, Washington offers some really great fishing opportunities throughout the year. With two runs of steelhead and four runs of salmon moving through the system, this Southwest Washington river gives anglers a genuine shot at good fishing nearly every month of the year, all within a manageable drive from Seattle. So whether it’s Spring Chinook, Steelhead or the ever-so-popular Fall Salmon seasons, there’s some exciting options on the Lewis. Where is the Lewis River The Lewis River system is fed by roughly 95 miles of river originating on the slopes of Mount Adams and Mount St. Helens, flowing through Clark, Cowlitz, and Skamania counties before reaching the Columbia River near Woodland. Three hydroelectric dams on the North Fork, Merwin, Yale, and Swift, regulate flows and create a tailrace fishery below Merwin Dam known for cold, stable water that holds fish exceptionally well. The lower 12 to 20 miles from Merwin Dam down to Woodland are the prime fishing water and see the bulk of angling pressure, winding through a scenic mix of forest, farmland, and a well-known golf course along the way. The East Fork, a separate, free-flowing stream through Clark County, has a wilder character and holds the Washington state record winter steelhead. From Seattle, Woodland and the lower Lewis River are about a two-hour drive south on I-5, making the trip comparable to nearby rivers like the Kalama and Cowlitz. Because the Lewis sits a bit further from major population centers than rivers closer to Portland, it often sees noticeably less pressure than its excellent fishing might suggest, which is part of the appeal for anglers willing to make the drive. Lewis River Map What you can catch in the Lewis River The Lewis is genuinely a year-round fishery, with two steelhead runs and four salmon runs providing action across nearly every season. Spring Chinook enter the river in April and fish well through May, prized both for their fight and their table quality. Summer steelhead follow close behind, often called the best run of its kind in the state, running strong from June through August in the cool, flow-regulated water below the dams. Fall Chinook move in as the summer steelhead run tapers off, running into November, and coho salmon arrive alongside them, providing consistent action from September through November, especially in the lower tidal sections. Winter steelhead round out the calendar, offering good fishing from December through March, with 2026 expected to benefit from fish returning through a new WDFW broodstock program. The East Fork also holds rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and its own smaller steelhead runs. As with most Columbia tributaries, only hatchery-marked fish may generally be retained, so anglers should always confirm current rules before keeping anything. The Lewis River is one of Washington's most renowned fishing locations, with good fishing opportunities nearly the entire year. Lewis River Fishing Seasons Spring is defined by the arrival of spring Chinook, entering the river in April and providing good fishing through May, particularly in the stretch from the Meat Hole down through the golf course and into Woodland. These springers have a well-earned reputation as strong biters and are considered some of the best-tasting salmon around, making this an eagerly awaited season for local anglers. As the spring run winds down, summer steelhead begin trickling in, setting up the transition into the next big push. Back-trolling Kwikfish, Mag Lips and M2 Flatfish is a good option for boaters. Float fishing with bobbers and cured roe, or drift fishing with a corky and cured roe picks up most of the Springers caught here. Summer brings the Lewis's signature fishery: summer steelhead, running from roughly May through October with peak numbers from June through August. These fish are known as hard fighters and reliable biters, thriving in the cool, dam-regulated water below Merwin that stays comfortable even during hot stretches. Side-drifting eggs and casting small spoons like Little Cleo’s or spinners like Steelhead Slammers are popular techniques, and the consistent flows make this one of the most dependable stretches of the year to plan a trip around. Bobber and Soft Bead is also a great option. Fall overlaps two strong runs at once. Fall Chinook and coho both move through the system starting in late summer, with coho action extending from September through November and Chinook fishing remaining strong into November as well. The lower tidal sections near Woodland are especially productive for coho during this stretch, and this transitional season often gives anglers a shot at multiple species in a single outing before the year winds toward winter steelhead. Back-trolling Kwikfish and Mag Lips or float fishing with bobbers and cured roe is prime for Chinook. Coho will also bite these offerings, but adding Blue Fox Vibrax Spinners or Twitching Jigs to the line-up will help you specifically target them. Winter shifts attention to winter steelhead, with the best fishing generally running from December through March and building toward a strong finish. Thanks to the dam system upstream, the Lewis tends to stay fishable even when nearby unregulated rivers blow out from heavy rain, giving winter anglers a more reliable option during Washington's wettest months. Side-drifting and float fishing with Bobbers and Soft Beads in accessible bank areas are the standard approach, and dedicated anglers can find good action right through the coldest part of the year. Drift fishing with Corkies and Yarn is also highly effective. Best Fishing Spots on the Lewis River The North Fork boat launch near Cedar Creek Road, about five miles east of Woodland, is the most famous access point on the river and home to the "Meat Hole," a deep pool that draws heavy boat traffic during the spring Chinook run. Just downstream, the excellent bank fishing below the hatchery holds spring Chinook and steelhead nearly year-round and is a strong choice for anglers without a boat. Paradise Point State Park, a 20-acre park jointly managed by WDFW and Clark County off Haapa Road, combines a boat launch with hiking trails and solid bank access along a long, deep run. Further downstream, the stretch through Woodland itself, including the water near the golf course, offers additional bank and boat access as the river nears its mouth. The East Fork, for anglers looking for a different experience, offers its own dedicated access points and a shot at trophy-class wild steelhead water, managed as a gene bank for the species. North Fork of the Lewis River has many long drifts with slow currents that hold Steelhead and Salmon. Fishing on the Lewis River The dam system that shapes the Lewis is a double-edged asset: it creates some of the most reliable, cold-water fishing conditions in the region, but it also means the river is intensively managed, with legal gear and bait often dictated by whether you're targeting hatchery or wild fish, and by your position relative to hatchery deadlines. Regulations can shift during the season, including anti-snagging rules and seasonal night closures in certain stretches, so checking current WDFW emergency rules or the Fish Washington app before every trip is essential. A valid Washington fishing license, along with the appropriate salmon and steelhead endorsement, is required. With its steady dam-regulated flows, diverse year-round runs, and comparatively light crowds for how good the fishing is, the Lewis River rewards anglers willing to make the trip south from Seattle. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Safyre Salmon Spinning Combo
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Fishing the Kalama River
Fishing at the Kalama River Clear, green, and remarkably consistent, the Kalama River has built a loyal following among Southwest Washington anglers who want a genuine shot at fish nearly every month of the year. It's a smaller, more intimate river than some of its neighbors, but it more than makes up for size with steady runs and easy access to some great fishing for Steelhead, Spring Chinook, Fall Chinook and Coho Salmon. Another picture perfect spot to target salmon and steelhead on the Kalama River. Where is the Kalama River The Kalama River drains the southwest flank of Mount St. Helens and runs about 45 miles through Cascade foothills, old-growth forest, and timberland before joining the Columbia River near the town of Kalama. It's a freestone stream with a distinctive clear, green tint, flowing through a mix of open lower river near I-5 and a more rugged, canyon-like character as you head upstream. Compared to some of the bigger rivers in the region, the Kalama feels approachable, small to medium in size depending on rainfall, which makes it a comfortable river for wading and bank fishing. From Seattle, the Kalama is about a two-hour drive south on I-5, with Kalama River Road picking up right off the freeway near the town of Kalama and following the river upstream from there. That easy freeway access is part of what makes the Kalama so popular, since it's one of the more convenient southwest Washington rivers to reach without a long detour off the interstate. Kalama River Map What you can catch in the Kalama River The Kalama is best known for producing steelhead essentially every month of the year, a rare trait that sets it apart from many other regional rivers. Summer-run steelhead dominate the catch, with excellent fishing typically stretching from May through August, while winter steelhead provide strong action from January into April. Spring Chinook, locally called "springers," draw a dedicated following each year as they build through April and May, and fall brings a strong run of coho salmon along with fall Chinook. Sea-run cutthroat trout add another option throughout the system. As with most hatchery-supported rivers in the region, retention rules generally apply to hatchery-marked fish, with wild steelhead and salmon requiring release, so it's worth double-checking current WDFW rules for the specific stretch you plan to fish. Kalama River Fishing Seasons Spring kicks off with the arrival of spring Chinook, typically starting in March and building through April, alongside the first summer steelhead showing up in May. This is one of the most anticipated stretches of the year for local anglers, with springer fishing often peaking in the April-to-May window before tapering off. It's also a good time to find a mix of species in the river at once, as early summer steelhead start to overlap with the tail end of the spring salmon run. Fishing with bobbers & soft beads or steelhead jigs is a great way to target everything in the river. If Springers are your main target, bobber fishing with cured roe or sand shrimp is a great choice, as is back-trolling a Yakima Bait Mag Lip 3.5 or a bait diver with a spin-n-glo and sand shrimp. Summer is prime time for the Kalama's signature fishery. Summer steelhead run strong from June through September, with May, June, July, and August often producing hundreds of fish during the summer season. Bobber fishing with steelhead jigs, soft beads, and eggs is a favorite technique during these months, and the river's fly-fishing-only stretch draws anglers looking for a more technical, traditional approach. Warm, stable summer flows make this an easy season for consistent access and comfortable wading. Another tactic is swinging a spinner like a Steelhead Slammer through the tailouts and pocket water. Fall brings a strong coho run that typically gets going around the second week of October as rains raise river levels, with excellent fishing continuing for several weeks. Fall Chinook move through around the same time, and steelhead fishing begins picking up again by mid-November as the early winter run starts to trickle in. It's a lively, transitional season on the Kalama, with multiple species often available in the same trip. Back-troll wrapped Kwikfish, Brad’s Wigglers or Mag Lips from your drift boat. If you’re bank fishing, rolling Blue Fox Vibrax Spinners, casting Twitching Jigs, or float fishing with bobber and eggs can be the ticket. Winter is when the Kalama's winter steelhead fishery takes over, with the best fishing typically running from January through April. The run tends to build gradually through the colder months, with numbers really picking up by mid-March and peaking in early April. Because the Kalama is smaller than many neighboring rivers, its winter steelhead run can feel especially productive relative to its size, drawing dedicated anglers throughout the coldest months of the year. Float fishing with a bobber and steelhead jig is the top tactic during this time, but soft beads are a close second. Long drifts and deep pools throughout the lower and middle river make it a phenomenal place to fish from a drift boat or raft. Best Fishing Spots on the Kalama River The Modrow Bridge Hole and the water just below it, known as Rainbow Drifts, are favorites early in the season and a great starting point for anglers new to the river. Further up, the Beginners Hole lives up to its name as an approachable, welcoming spot for newer anglers. The areas around Kalama Falls Hatchery and Fallert Fish Hatchery offer reliable shore access and consistently hold fish during peak runs, with the Hand boat ramp providing nearby boat access just upriver from Fallert. The Prichard's access site combines a hand launch with ample parking and shore access, right across from a local fly shop, while the Red Barn access spot and countless unofficial turnouts along Kalama River Road add even more options the farther upriver you explore. For anglers chasing a bit more solitude, the Kalama Canyon upstream offers excellent drift fishing water and a wilder feel as the terrain gets more rugged. The Kalama River runs through some beautiful country, with rolling forested hills and canyons to make each trip an adventure. Fishing on the Kalama River The Kalama's easy access from I-5 is part of what makes the river so popular, and it also means fishing pressure can be significant during peak runs. Certain stretches, including a well-known fly-fishing-only section, carry their own special regulations, and rules can vary by location and season, so checking the current Washington Sport Fishing rules pamphlet or the Fish Washington app before heading out is a smart habit. Anglers 15 and older also need to be aware of Columbia River-specific licensing requirements, including the Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement, when fishing waters connected to the mainstem. Don't be discouraged by the occasional slow report — when the fish are running on the Kalama, this compact, scenic river can deliver some of the most consistent, rod-bending action in Southwest Washington. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Safyre Steelhead Float Fishing Combo
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Fishing the Klickitat River
Fishing at the Klickitat River Tucked into the Columbia River Gorge, the Klickitat is a river worth getting to know, whether you're just starting out or you've been chasing steelhead for years. It's earned a reputation for some of the hardest-fighting summer steelhead and fall Chinook in the state, and while the river has its challenges, that's part of what makes it such a rewarding place to learn and grow as an angler. There's plenty of accessible water for beginners to get their feet wet, and enough of a puzzle to keep seasoned anglers coming back season after season. The Klickitat is one of our most bank-accessible rivers, great for a weekend of exploration! Where is the Klickitat River The Klickitat River begins high on the slopes of Mount Adams and flows roughly 96 miles south through Klickitat County before joining the Columbia River near the small town of Lyle, Washington. It's a glacially fed river, which gives it cold water and strong, healthy runs, but also means it can turn fast and off-color quickly during warm spells or heavy rain. The lower 18 miles or so, from Lyle upstream through the town of Klickitat, are the most accessible, with Highway 142 running alongside the river the whole way. Beyond that, the river climbs into a steep, forested canyon that sees far less pressure and requires more effort to reach. From Seattle, getting to the Klickitat is a little bit of a trek but through some really cool country: plan on roughly 2.5 to 3 hours, generally down I-5 and then east on Highway 14 along the Columbia River Gorge, or via I-84 on the Oregon side before crossing back over near Lyle. It's one of the longer drives among the rivers Washington anglers regularly target, but the Gorge scenery alone makes the trip worthwhile, and the fishing gives plenty of anglers a reason to make it a regular pilgrimage. Klickitat River Map What you can catch in the Klickitat River The Klickitat's calling card is its summer steelhead run, considered by many longtime anglers to be among the hardest-fighting of any Columbia River tributary, with fish up to 20 pounds turning up in good years. Fall Chinook salmon provide the other headline fishery, arriving as water temperatures drop in late summer and pushing hard into September and October. Coho salmon add to the fall mix, and a smaller spring Chinook run passes through earlier in the year, though it's more tightly managed. Resident rainbow trout are present throughout the system and make a solid backup target when steelhead conditions turn tough, and mountain whitefish round out the lineup as a reliable, often overlooked option. Because the Klickitat plays a significant role in hatchery broodstock collection for the Klickitat Salmon Hatchery, and supports Yakama Nation treaty fisheries, rules here can be detailed and change year to year, so checking current WDFW regulations before any trip is essential. Glacial flour from its source on Mount Adams gives the Klickitat a milky color most of the year, lots of places for salmon and steelhead to hide! Klickitat River Fishing Seasons Spring is a quieter time on the Klickitat for most anglers, with a limited spring Chinook fishery that's often tightly restricted around hatchery broodstock needs. Snowmelt and glacial input tend to keep flows high and the water cold, which can make for tricky conditions. When water conditions are good, it can be a great place to find solitude and some big fish. Float fishing with a bobber and steelhead jig or BNR Soft Bead can be good, as can swinging Little Cleo Spoons, Blue Fox Vibrax Spinners and Steelhead Slammer Spinners. Summer is when the Klickitat starts to earn its reputation. The main summer steelhead season typically opens around June 1 and runs through the end of November, with fish trickling in through June before things pick up later in the season. Warm weather can push flows and clarity around throughout the summer, since the glacial source reacts quickly to heat, so timing a trip around stable, cool conditions pays off. This is prime season for fly anglers looking to swing flies through the river's classic runs. Blue Fox Vibrax and Steelhead Slammer Spinners are real winners during this time of year, as are bobber and soft beads. Fall is the Klickitat's marquee season. Chinook salmon push into the river as water temperatures drop in late summer, with the best fishing typically running through September and October, and the lower 15 miles can get genuinely busy when good numbers of fish are around. Summer steelhead numbers peak alongside the salmon run in this same September-to-October window, and the largest, most trophy-class steelhead often show up even later, running into November before the season closes. It's widely considered the best all-around stretch of the year to fish the Klickitat, especially for anglers chasing that classic double shot at salmon and steelhead in the same trip. Boat anglers can pull bait divers with a spin-n-glo and bait, Yakima Mag Lip 3.5 plugs or Brad’s Wigglers. Also try float fishing with a bobber and eggs or cast Blue Fox Vibrax Spinners. Winter is the off-season for most Klickitat anglers, with the main steelhead fishery closing at the end of November and the river settling into its coldest, highest-water period of the year. Resident trout and mountain whitefish remain available for anglers willing to brave the conditions, but this is generally a season to plan and prep gear rather than fish hard, with most attention shifting to nearby rivers with active winter runs. If you’re in the area and want to wet a line, try casting Roostertail Spinners or swing small Little Cleo Spoons for Rainbows. Best Fishing Spots on the Klickitat River The lower stretch from Lyle upstream to the town of Klickitat, paralleled by Highway 142, holds a dozen or so productive runs and is by far the most fished section of the river, with numerous pullouts providing easy road access. Lyle Falls, near the mouth, is a well-known landmark and a popular bank fishing-only access point for both salmon and steelhead as fish stage before heading upstream. Several boat ramps in that middle 18-mile stretch make float trips of almost any length easy to plan, which is part of why this section sees the bulk of the river's angling pressure. Anglers looking for solitude can push further upstream into the canyon water above town, though access gets noticeably harder and more remote the farther up you go. Broad runs are perfect for swinging flies, spoons and spinners for Steelhead. Fishing on the Klickitat River The Klickitat is not always a forgiving river, and that difficulty is part of its appeal for the anglers who love it. Cold, fast, and often off-color water means success usually comes down to confidence, clean presentation, and a willingness to keep covering water rather than waiting for perfect conditions. Because the river supports critical salmon broodstock collection and treaty fisheries, regulations can shift during the season, including daily limits, area closures, and access restrictions near the hatchery, so it's worth checking the current WDFW rules and any emergency notices before every trip. Pack for changeable conditions, be ready to adjust your approach as the water clears or clouds, and the Klickitat can reward patient, persistent anglers with some of the best steelhead and salmon fishing in the Gorge. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Safyre Steelhead Float Fishing Combo
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Fishing the Puyallup River
Fishing at the Puyallup River Glacier-fed, fast-moving, and running right through a busy stretch of Pierce County, the Puyallup River is proof that great fishing doesn't have to be remote. It's one of the most accessible salmon and steelhead rivers near Seattle, Tacoma and Puyallup with a big fall run that turns it into one of the region's most popular fisheries for a few packed months every year. Where is the Puyallup River The Puyallup River begins on the glaciers of Mount Rainier and runs roughly 45 miles northwest, picking up the Carbon and White Rivers along the way before emptying into Commencement Bay in Tacoma. Because it's glacially fed, its flow and clarity can shift quickly, often running milky or high after warm spells or heavy rain, so checking current conditions before a trip is more important here than on many other rivers. The lower river, flowing through the cities of Puyallup, Sumner, and Tacoma, is urban and highly developed, while the stretch upstream toward Orting and the Carbon River confluence opens into a more rural valley with a mix of farmland and forest. The Puyallup is one of the closest major salmon rivers to Seattle, with the lower river around the city of Puyallup and Tacoma only about 35 to 40 minutes south via I-5 or Highway 167. The upper river near Orting and McMillin adds another 15 to 20 minutes. That short drive, combined with strong hatchery returns, makes the Puyallup an easy after-work or weekend-morning option for Seattle-based anglers who don't want to burn a whole day just getting to the water. Puyallup River Map What you can catch in the Puyallup River The Puyallup is best known for its fall salmon runs, but the river has some trout options and a few steelhead that migrate back as well. Fall Chinook begin showing up in August, and coho follow close behind, arriving by mid-September and running strong through October, supported by significant hatchery production tied to the Voight Creek hatchery on the Carbon River. In odd-numbered years, pink salmon flood into the system, drawing crowds for some of the highest-volume fishing anywhere in the region. Chum salmon round out the fall lineup, while both winter and summer steelhead, along with sea-run cutthroat and resident rainbow trout, add options through the rest of the year, though wild steelhead and salmon runs are more tightly regulated in the lower river. Mountain whitefish are also present for anglers looking for something a little different. Expansive gravel bars near Sumner and Orting provide great shore fishing access along the Puyallup River. Puyallup River Fishing Seasons Spring on the Puyallup is a slower season compared to what follows in the fall, with glacial melt often keeping the river high, cold, and turbid as snowpack starts to release. The upper river typically opens around Memorial Day. Fishing this time of year tends to focus on resident trout and the occasional early steelhead in clearer side channels and tributary mouths. It's a good season to scout access points around Orting and McMillin and get a feel for the river before the fall crowds show up. For trout, swing a small Kastmaster, Little Cleo Spoon or Roostertail Spinner. Summer brings warmer, more stable flows, though the river can still cloud up quickly during hot stretches when glacial melt picks up on Mount Rainier. Summer-run steelhead provide some opportunity for anglers willing to work for it, and this is generally a quieter period on the water compared to the fall salmon season, making it a good time for anglers who prefer some elbow room. Exploring above the junction with the Carbon River can provide some real serenity and solitude. Drift fishing with corkies & yarn is pretty much the go-to tactic in the summer. Fall is when the Puyallup truly comes alive. Chinook arrive in August and build through September, coho follow with a strong run from mid-September into October, and in odd-numbered years pink salmon show up in huge numbers, drawing some of the biggest crowds of the year. This is by far the busiest and most productive season on the river, with the stretch from Sumner upstream to the mouth of the Carbon River seeing especially strong action for both salmon and steelhead. Expect company at the popular access points, especially on weekends during peak coho and pink runs. During the peak of the salmon run, almost everyone is drift fishing corkies & yarn. Winter shifts the focus to steelhead. Hatchery winter steelhead move through starting in the colder months, with anglers working drift gear, jigs, and beads through deeper slots and known steelhead water near Orting and McMillin. Flows and clarity can change fast after winter storms, so keeping an eye on river gauges before heading out is essential this time of year. It's a quieter season overall, appealing to anglers who don't mind cold, wet conditions in exchange for a shot at a hatchery steelhead with fewer people on the bank. Float fishing with a bobber and steelhead jig can be a good option, as can swinging Blue Fox Vibrax Spinners and Little Cleo Spoons. Best Fishing Spots on the Puyallup River McCutcheon Road, running along the east side of the river between Sumner and McMillin, is one of the best bets on the whole system, with more than half a dozen bank access points scattered along its length for both salmon and steelhead. Riverside County Park near Sumner offers undeveloped but walkable river access and is a solid pick for anglers who prefer a quieter, less-improved bank. Side roads off Highway 162 near Alderton and McMillin add more spots to work the water on foot without needing a boat. Down near the mouth, the lower river through the city of Puyallup and Fife, paralleled by River Road and North Levee Road, gives easy, walk-up bank access close to Tacoma, making it a convenient option for anglers working close to the city. Anglers wade into the murky waters of the Puyallup, drift fishing for salmon during the fall. Fishing on the Puyallup River Because it runs through such a populated stretch of Pierce County, the Puyallup sees real pressure during peak salmon season, so getting to a favorite spot early is a smart move, especially on fall weekends. Regulations vary by stretch and season and can change during the year, so it's worth checking the current WDFW regulations pamphlet before every trip, along with river flow data given how quickly glacial melt and rain can change conditions. A valid Washington fishing license with the appropriate salmon and steelhead endorsement is required, and anglers should always be ready to identify hatchery versus wild fish before deciding what to keep. With its short drive from Seattle and reliably strong fall runs, the Puyallup is one of the easiest rivers around to turn a free afternoon into a real fishing trip. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Safyre Salmon Spinning Combo
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Fishing at Lake Chelan
Explore Washington's Lake Chelan fishing for trophy mackinaw, kokanee & cutthroat trout. Get top spots, year-round seasons, and tips for every angler.
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Fishing the Cowlitz River
Fish the Cowlitz River near Seattle for spring & fall Chinook, coho, and year-round steelhead. Explore top spots like Blue Creek and seasonal tips.
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Fishing the Green River
Fishing at the Green River near Seattle, Kent & Auburn The Green River Watershed is broad and diverse, collecting tributaries deep in the Cascade Mountains north of Mount Rainier, and eventually meanders through it’s namesake valley and into Seattle’s industrial areas to the south of the city. Anglers from all over the region are drawn to the river, and whether you’re casting small spinners or trout in the gorge, an avid steelhead angler exploring the river around Auburn, or want to take your boat and troll it’s tidal stretches for coho near Seattle, the river provides some great action. It has continuously been one of the best fishing options close to Seattle. Easy bank access welcomes the first timer figuring out how to read water, and enough salmon, steelhead and trout to keep experienced anglers coming back each season. Where is the Green River The Green River starts up in the Cascade foothills south of I-90 and flows about 65 miles down through Southeast King County before becoming the Duwamish Waterway and reaching Puget Sound. The river has two distinct moods. Upstream, through the Green River Gorge near Kanaskat-Palmer, Flaming Geyser, and Nolte State Parks, it's forested and dramatic, with basalt canyon walls rising up to 300 feet above the water. Downstream, through Auburn, Kent, and Tukwila, it opens into a broad valley with tree lined banks before turning industrial and tidal as it nears Elliott Bay near downtown Seattle. The best part for Seattle-based anglers is how close all of this is. The lower river around Auburn and Kent is a quick 25 to 30 minute drive south on I-5 or Highway 167, making it one of the most convenient salmon and steelhead options around. The upper river and gorge, near Enumclaw and Black Diamond, are about 45 minutes to an hour away via Highway 18 or Highway 169. Whether you've got a full weekend or just a couple of hours after work, the Green is close enough to make a spontaneous trip realistic. Green River Map What you can catch in the Green River The Green is primarily a salmon and steelhead river, and it's a great one to learn those fisheries on. Hatchery Chinook (king) salmon start the season, joined by strong coho and chum returns in the fall. Winter steelhead, mostly hatchery-origin, are the other big draw, concentrated in the middle and upper river. You'll also find resident and sea-run cutthroat throughout the system, plus rainbow trout in the upper stretches above the gorge. Keep an eye out for juvenile salmon and steelhead smolt in shallow water, and for protected bull trout, both need to go back in the water unharmed if hooked. Because the Green supports wild Chinook and other sensitive stocks, the rules here are detailed and can shift during the season, so it's always worth a quick check of current WDFW regulations before you head out. The Green River near Kent has brushy banks, but with a little exploring you can find some great salmon fishing holes. Green River Fishing Seasons Spring is a quiet season on the Green, with nearly the entire river closed to fishing in the effort of conservation, it's a good time to prepare gear for the upcoming seasons. Summer tends to be the calm before the storm for salmon anglers, since the big fall runs haven't shown up yet. That said, lower, clearer flows make the upper river genuinely enjoyable for trout and summer steelhead fishing, with decent action in the pocket water and deeper holes above Flaming Geyser. Casting small Roostertail Spinners, Blue Fox Spinners and Little Cleo Spoons can be the ticket then. Fall is when the Green really shows off. Chinook push into the middle river starting in late summer, coho follow with a strong fall peak, and chum join the mix by November, keeping the action going even as other runs taper off. This is the busiest stretch of the year, especially near the hatchery areas around the Highway 18 bridge in Auburn and through the lower river toward Kent. Twitching jigs for coho and drift fishing for Chinook are local favorites, and it's a fantastic season to bring a beginner along, since fish are plentiful and the learning curve is gentle. Casting plugs like Brad's Wigglers & Wiggle Warts are popular, as are Twitching Jigs and Blue Fox Spinners. Winter is steelhead season, plain and simple. The hatchery steelhead run typically builds through the winter and peaks between December and January, with most of the action in the middle and upper river near Kanaskat-Palmer and the gorge. Conditions can turn cold, high, or off-color after storms, so it's worth checking river flow data before committing to a trip. A few chum may still be around into December, but by January this is a dedicated steelhead game, drawing anglers willing to brave the weather for a shot at a bright hatchery fish. Fish with a float & steelhead jig, swing a Steelhead Slammer Spinner or Little Cleo, or drift fish with corkies & yarn. Upriver from Auburn, the Green River enters some beautiful forested canyons, accessible by numerous local and state parks. Best Fishing Spots on the Green River Kanaskat-Palmer State Park is a gorge favorite, with about two miles of shoreline and a steelhead hatchery just upstream that keeps fish stacked nearby — a reliable bet for steelhead and trout alike. Flaming Geyser State Park, a little further downstream, offers miles of river frontage, easy bank access, and a popular put-in for float trips. The pullouts along Green Valley Road fill in more of the middle river with quieter, less crowded water worth exploring. Check out O-Grady Park, Metzler Park, and Isaac Evans Park. Downstream, the stretch through Auburn, Kent, and Tukwila gives road-accessible bank fishing on the lower river, though conditions become tidal and more industrial as you near the Duwamish. Each spot has its own character, so it's worth trying a few to find the water that fits your style. The lower Green is officially called the Duwamish River, and offers good access via numerous walking paths and parks. Fishing on the Green River Because the Green sits so close to several population centers, the well-known holes see real pressure, so getting there early or exploring a lesser-known pullout can make a big difference. Regulations here tend to be more detailed and more prone to in-season changes than on many other Washington rivers, largely to protect wild Chinook. Anti-snagging rules, boundary lines between the Duwamish and Green River sections, and retention limits can all shift during the year, so it's always worth checking the current WDFW regulations pamphlet, the Fish Washington app, or the emergency rules page right before you go. Whether you're casting a line for the first time or you've fished this river for years, the Green rewards a little homework with a lot of good fishing close to home. Suggested Setup: Okuma SST Safyre Steelhead Spinning Combo
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