Washington State News

Washington’s Lowland Lake Trout-Fishing Season Starts April 22

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife

Published

April 1, 2023

Photo courtesy of IDFG

OLYMPIA – As Earth Day approaches, many outdoor enthusiasts are excited for the start of the lowland lake trout-fishing season, which begins on April 22 in Washington. This event attracts hundreds of thousands of Washingtonians who descend on trout-stocked lakes, making it the state’s biggest outdoor event.

The 2023 WDFW trout stocking plan reveals more than 15.2 million trout have or will be planted in lakes. You can find out how many fish were stocked in each lake by checking our website.

To participate in these activities, most people will need a valid 2023-2024 fishing or hunting license, which can be obtained online, by phone (1-866-246-9453), or from sporting goods stores and other retail license dealers around the state. However, young people under age 15 can fish for free, promoting the importance of introducing future generations to sustainable outdoor practices.

You can find WDFW staff at other community events coming up, including the  Community Fun Fair (April 29), the Home and Garden Show in Chehalis (April 14-15), the Benton County Salmon Summit (April 17-18), and the Washington Coast Cleanup on Earth Day (April 22). Check out our events calendar for more information.

In recognition of Earth Day, visitors to Washington State Parks, Washington State Department of Natural Resources, and WDFW-managed lands won’t need a Discover Pass on April 22. Learn more about 2023 Discover Pass Free Days.