Fishing in Washington is a favorite pastime for locals and visitors alike. Anglers across the state and country eagerly await the opening of fishing season each year. But planning a fishing trip can feel overwhelming with all the rules and seasonal changes. 

Our guide will clarify when the fishing season starts in Washington for the various species of fish that our beautiful state is known for. 

We’ll also highlight key regulations to keep you in compliance and share some tips for making the most of your time on the water so you can plan a successful and stress-free fishing adventure.

Table of Contents

• Understanding Fishing Seasons in Washington
• When Does Fishing Season Start in Washington State?
• Regional Variations in Washington Fishing Seasons
• Tips for Planning Your Washington Fishing Trip
• Don’t Miss Out on Washington’s Best Fishing Seasons — Contact Pacific Drifter Guide Service Today

Understanding Fishing Seasons in Washington

Washington state is known for its picturesque rivers, lakes, and coastal waters. These pristine waters are home to a variety of fish species, each with specific seasonal regulations designed to protect populations and preserve the environment.

The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) works to protect the state’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while making sure everyone can enjoy fishing and other outdoor activities responsibly. The WDFW’s fishing regulations are put in place to balance recreational opportunities with conservation goals and are typically based on species, location, and/or fishing method. 

By knowing when different seasons open and close, you can make sure you’re fishing legally, safely, and sustainably. The best way to make sure you’re fishing within regulations is to go with a professional Washington and Portland fishing guide who knows the rules and regulations for recreational fishing.

When Does Fishing Season Start in Washington State?

Curious about when fishing season kicks off in Washington? Seasons vary by species and location, so proper planning keeps you legal and maximizes your chances for a great catch. 

It’s also important to remember that the regulations are subject to change based on population count and other factors. 

Going out with a guide who is up-to-date on when fishing seasons start in Washington can help make the process easier for you.

When Does Salmon Fishing Season Start?

When you think of Washington state fishing, you’re likely to think of salmon. There are several different species of salmon, but the most commonly fished in Washington are Chinook (King Salmon) and Coho (Silver Salmon). 

Salmon fishing is broken up into three seasons: spring, summer, and fall. The actual dates of salmon season vary based on specific rivers and are subject to change mid-season based on population numbers. This is why it’s always recommended to go fishing with an experienced guide who is up-to-date on the most current regulations. 

The tentative Chinook and Coho salmon fishing season dates for 25-26 are:

Chinook Salmon

• Spring: late March through July
• Summer: late May through July
• Fall: August through November

Coho salmon

• June through August in the oceans and estuaries
• August through November in the rivers and tributaries

Just remember, these dates are not set in stone and can change at any time during the season, so make sure you’re going out with a professional guide that stays current with the latest regulations.

When Does Fishing Season Start in Washington State for Steelhead? 

Another exciting season for Washington anglers is steelhead season. Steelhead are anadromous fish, meaning they can live in both freshwater and saltwater, making them unique among game fish.

Steelhead have two main runs:

• Summer: June through September
• Winter: November through March

With the rising popularity of steelhead fishing, their population is declining, so the WDFW keeps a close eye on population numbers and will make changes and close the season early if needed to protect the species. The winter run is the most popular and is known to close early, so proper planning is required.

Fishing with an experienced guide is highly recommended to ensure a safe and legal experience. Pacific Drifter Guide Service has years of experience fishing for steelhead in the Washington waters and can help make sure you have an enjoyable experience fishing for these adrenaline rush-inducing fish.

When Does Sturgeon Fishing Season Start in Washington?

Washington state has two main species of sturgeon: green sturgeon and white sturgeon. The green sturgeon’s population numbers are rapidly decreasing, so you cannot fish for or keep green sturgeon in Washington state. However, the white sturgeon is a favorite of many anglers because of its large size (some can get up to 20 feet), and it is known to be one of the hardest fish to reel in because they put up quite a fight. 

Catch-and-release fishing for white sturgeon is open year-round in most parts of Washington state. However, the dates to keep them vary significantly based on location, so always check local regulations or book with a professional guide before heading out.

What Other Washington Fishing Seasons Should I Be Aware Of?

In addition to salmon, steelhead, and sturgeon, there are several other important fishing seasons:

• Bass: typically year-round
• Shad and smelt: seasonal runs in rivers
• Shellfish: seasonal openings depending on population and public health

Regional Variations in Washington Fishing Seasons

The beauty of Washington is that it has so many different fishing opportunities because of the various types of waterways you can find. From the Pacific coast and Puget Sound, to the Columbia and Snake Rivers, to the natural lakes and reservoirs, there are fishing opportunities for every angler. 

Because of the variations in species, waterways, type of fishing (catch-and-release vs. retention), and population density, it’s essential to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife’s local regulations before your trip. Doing so not only ensures compliance with the law but also helps protect fish populations and keep Washington’s fisheries sustainable for future generations.

How To Stay Up-to-Date on Season Openings

So you’re probably wondering, with all the uncertainty and changes in season regulations, what’s the best way to know if you’re able to go fishing? 

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regularly updates its website with season announcements, emergency rule changes, and region-specific regulations, making it the most reliable source of current information. You can also sign up for WDFW email and text alerts to get immediate notifications that may affect your favorite fishing spots. 

WDFW also launched a mobile app designed to keep you aware of the most recent changes and updates.

Having the expertise of a local guide can be priceless. Pacific Drifter Guide Service is owned and operated by Jordan Rose, an expert in the industry. He has over 30 years of experience fishing in the Pacific Northwest, so he knows the Washington waterways like the back of his hand and is always up-to-date on the latest regulations.

Tips for Planning Your Washington Fishing Trip

Planning a fishing trip in Washington takes a little strategy to make sure you get the best experience possible. Here are some key tips to keep in mind:

• Book guides in advance: Popular trips for salmon and halibut fill up fast due to shorter, highly regulated seasons. Pacific Drifter Guide Service can help you secure prime dates and navigate change openings.
• Prep your gear and licensing: Make sure rods, reels, tackle, and safety gear are in working order, and purchase the proper fishing license and endorsements before your trip.
• Choose the right time for your target species: Seasons vary by fish type and region. Plan around peak times to increase your chances of coming back with a good catch.

Don’t Miss Out on Washington’s Best Fishing Seasons — Contact Pacific Drifter Guide Service Today

Navigating Washington’s varied fishing seasons can be tricky, but Pacific Drifter Guide Service makes it simple. Their experienced and knowledgeable guide, Jordan, stays up to date on WDFW regulations, seasonal openings, and run forecasts, helping you plan your trips around the best opportunities for salmon, steelhead, and more. 

Pacific Drifter Guide Service is here to make sure you spend more time on the water and less time worrying about rules, so every trip is productive, legal, and unforgettable.