Trout Season Begins Saturday In Washington: Here's What to Expect

OLYMPIA, WA — Calling all anglers: Washington's trout season gets underway on hundreds of lakes Saturday, kicking off the annual trout derby that runs through October.

While some lakes are open for trout fishing year-round, state wildlife officials said opening day is a major event for Washington each year, drawing anglers from all over the state. Throughout the year, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife stocks lakes with several species, including more than 16 million trout and kokanee. Residents can find which lakes have been stocked most recently on the WDFW website.

The annual trout derby, which runs from April 24 to Oct. 31, offers more than 1,000 prizes this year, valued at more than $38,000. To participate, anglers must have their annual freshwater, combination, or a "Fish Washington" license, with a valid date through March 31, 2022. The licenses are available online, through dealers, or by calling 1-866-246-9453.

Anglers can visit any participating lake and winning trout will have an orange WDFW tag attached to them. Prizes can be claimed by filling out an online form with the tag number, location, date and contact information.

Visitors are asked to follow the state's guidelines for recreation during the coronavirus pandemic, including mask use, physical distancing and avoiding destinations that appear crowded. Vehicles are required to display a WDFW access pass, which comes free with the purchase of a fishing license or Discover Pass.

A complete list of fishing rules and regulations is posted online.