Lake Washington is a popular destination for anglers looking for a variety of fish species, including salmon. With miles of shoreline and open waters, Lake Washington offers numerous opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. However, finding the best places for salmon fishing can be a challenge, especially for those who are new to the area.

One of the best places to start is at the principal access ramps located at Kenmore, Magnuson Park at Sand Point, Gene Coulon Park in Renton, and Rainier Beach Park in Rainier Beach. These ramps provide easy access to the lake and offer opportunities for both boat and bank fishing. Additionally, numerous fishing piers dot the perimeter of the lake, providing additional access points for anglers.

While Chinook, Coho, and Sockeye salmon are available in Lake Washington, the abundance of returning adults can vary from year to year. Therefore, it is important to check with the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife for up-to-date information on salmon populations and regulations. By doing so, anglers can increase their chances of having a successful salmon fishing experience in Lake Washington.

Understanding Salmon Fishing

Basics of Salmon Fishing

Salmon fishing in Lake Washington can be a thrilling experience, but it requires some basic knowledge and skills. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Use the right gear: A medium to heavy rod, a spinning reel, and a braided line are recommended for salmon fishing. You will also need a variety of lures, such as spoons, plugs, and jigs, to attract different types of salmon.
• Know the regulations: Before you start fishing, make sure you are familiar with the local fishing regulations. Check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for the latest rules and restrictions.
• Understand the salmon lifecycle: Salmon return to freshwater to spawn, and they are most active during their migration. Knowing when and where they are likely to be can help you find the best fishing spots.
• Practice patience: Salmon fishing can be unpredictable, and it may take some time to catch a fish. Be prepared to spend several hours on the water, and don’t get discouraged if you don’t catch anything right away.

Best Time for Salmon Fishing

The best time for salmon fishing in Lake Washington depends on the species you are targeting. Here are some general guidelines:

• Chinook salmon: The Chinook salmon run in Lake Washington typically occurs from late August to early October. They are most active during the morning and evening, especially when the water temperature is cooler.
• Coho salmon: The Coho salmon run in Lake Washington usually takes place from late September to early November. They are more active during the day and tend to prefer shallower water.
• Sockeye salmon: Sockeye salmon are less common in Lake Washington, but they can be found in the lake from mid-June to early July. They are most active during the early morning and late afternoon.

By understanding the basics of salmon fishing and knowing the best time to fish for each species, you can increase your chances of having a successful fishing trip in Lake Washington.

Lake Washington Overview

Location and Accessibility

Lake Washington is a freshwater lake located in King County, Washington, between Seattle and Bellevue. It is the largest body of freshwater in King County, covering an area of 22,000 acres. The lake is 22 miles long and is traversed by two of the world’s longest floating bridges – the Evergreen Point Floating Bridge and the Lacey V. Murrow Memorial Bridge.

The lake is easily accessible by car, bike, or public transportation. It is surrounded by several parks, including the Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, which offers a boat launch, fishing pier, and picnic areas.

Salmon Species in Lake Washington

Lake Washington is home to several species of salmon, including Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, and Pink salmon. The most abundant species in the lake is the Chinook salmon, which can grow up to 50 pounds.

The salmon season in Lake Washington typically runs from mid-August to late-October, with the peak season being in September. During this time, anglers can catch salmon using a variety of techniques, including trolling, casting lures or flies, or still-fishing with bait.

It is important to note that there are regulations in place for salmon fishing in Lake Washington. Anglers should check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for up-to-date information on fishing regulations, limits, and closures.

Top Spots for Salmon Fishing in Lake Washington

Lake Washington is a great place for salmon fishing, with plenty of spots to choose from. Here are some of the top spots to try your luck:

Juanita Bay

Juanita Bay, located in the northeast part of Lake Washington, is a popular spot for salmon fishing. The bay is shallow and has plenty of vegetation, which provides a good habitat for fish. Anglers can fish from the shore or from a boat. During the fall, salmon can be caught in the bay, with Chinook and Coho being the most common species.

Saint Edwards State Park

Saint Edwards State Park, located on the north end of Lake Washington, is another great spot for salmon fishing. The park has a boat launch, so anglers can launch their boats and fish from the water. The park also has plenty of shoreline for those who prefer to fish from the shore. During the fall, salmon can be caught in the park, with Coho and Chinook being the most common species.

Matthews Beach Park

Matthews Beach Park, located on the northeast shore of Lake Washington, is a popular spot for salmon fishing. The park has a fishing pier and plenty of shoreline for anglers to fish from. During the fall, salmon can be caught in the park, with Coho and Chinook being the most common species.

Overall, Lake Washington offers plenty of great spots for salmon fishing. Anglers can choose from a variety of locations, depending on their preferences and the time of year. With a little luck and some skill, they may be able to catch some of the biggest salmon in the area.

Fishing Techniques and Tools

Recommended Fishing Gear

When it comes to salmon fishing in Lake Washington, having the right gear is essential. Here are some recommended fishing gear that will help increase your chances of catching salmon:

• Rod and reel: A medium to heavy action rod with a spinning reel is recommended for salmon fishing in Lake Washington. A 8-10 ft rod with a 20-30 lb test line is ideal for salmon fishing.
• Lures: The best lures for salmon fishing in Lake Washington are spoons, spinners, and plugs. Some popular brands include Luhr Jensen, Gibbs, and Yakima Bait Company.
• Bait: Herring, anchovies, and squid are popular baits for salmon fishing in Lake Washington. Make sure to brine your bait before using it to improve its scent and durability.
• Terminal tackle: Use a 3-way swivel with a 12-18 inch leader and a 2-4 oz weight for trolling. For drift fishing, use a sliding sinker with a 2-3 ft leader and a size 1/0-2/0 hook.

Effective Techniques for Salmon Fishing

Here are some effective techniques for salmon fishing in Lake Washington:

• Trolling: Troll your lure or bait at a slow speed (1-2 mph) near drop-offs, structure, or weed lines. Vary your depth until you find the right one.
• Drift fishing: Drift your bait or lure along the bottom of the lake using a drift sock to slow your drift. Make sure to stay in contact with your bait or lure and set the hook immediately when you feel a bite.
• Jigging: Jig your lure vertically near structure or drop-offs. Use a light to medium action rod with a 1-2 oz jig and a 4-6 inch plastic grub.
• Casting: Cast your lure or bait towards structure, weed lines, or drop-offs. Use a slow retrieve and vary your depth until you find the right one.

Remember to check the fishing regulations for Lake Washington before you start fishing, and always practice catch and release to help preserve the salmon population.

Rules and Regulations

Fishing License Requirements

Before heading out to Lake Washington for salmon fishing, it’s important to make sure you have the appropriate fishing license. All anglers aged 15 and older are required to have a valid Washington State fishing license. Licenses can be purchased online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website or at many local sporting goods stores.

In addition to a fishing license, anglers targeting salmon in Lake Washington must also have a salmon/steelhead catch record card. This card is used to track the number of salmon caught and must be carried with the angler at all times while fishing.

Lake Washington Fishing Regulations

Lake Washington has specific fishing regulations that anglers must follow. These regulations are in place to ensure that the fish population remains healthy and sustainable for future generations.

Some of the regulations for salmon fishing in Lake Washington include:

• Only hatchery Chinook and hatchery coho salmon may be retained. Wild Chinook and wild coho salmon must be released.
• Barbless hooks are required when fishing for salmon.
• The daily limit for salmon is two fish per angler, with a minimum size limit of 12 inches.
• Fishing is only allowed from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset.

It’s important to note that these regulations are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website for the most up-to-date information before heading out to fish. Anglers should also be aware of any additional regulations that may apply to the specific area they plan to fish in.

Conclusion

Lake Washington is a great place for salmon fishing, offering a variety of locations and species to choose from. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, there are plenty of options to explore. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

• Lake Washington is home to several species of salmon, including Chinook, Coho, Sockeye, and Pink.
• The best time to fish for salmon in Lake Washington is during the fall, when the fish are returning to their spawning grounds.
• Some of the best locations for salmon fishing in Lake Washington include the Ship Canal, the Cedar River, and the Sammamish River.
• Anglers should be aware of any fish consumption advisories issued by the Washington State Department of Health, which may restrict the amount or type of fish that can be safely eaten.

Overall, Lake Washington is a fantastic destination for salmon fishing, offering a unique and rewarding experience for anglers of all skill levels. With its beautiful scenery, diverse fish populations, and convenient location, it’s no wonder that so many people flock to this iconic Pacific Northwest lake every year to cast their lines and reel in some of the biggest fish around.