On Saturday and Sunday, anglers can fish for many species without a license as part of the state Department of Fish and Wildlife’s annual Free Fishing Weekend.
Some of the fishing opportunities available throughout the state include trout and warmwater species in lakes and in saltwater on the coast.
In fresh water, anglers can also fish for shad on the Columbia River, and saltwater they can cast for lingcod, cabezon and rockfish. Any fish requiring a catch record card (including sturgeon, salmon, steelhead, and halibut) and all shellfish will require a license on Free Fishing Weekend. All other species open for harvest can be done without a license.
Other rules such as seasons, size limits, daily limits and area closures are in effect, and anglers should check the current regulations before hitting the water.
“Fish and Wildlife police remind you that failure to follow the regulations may result in a citation,” Fish and Wildlife Fish Management Division Director Kirt Hughes said in a news release. “Knowing the rules before heading out will make for a safe and enjoyable outdoor experience.”
Other requirements also waived during Free Fishing Weekend include: a Vehicle Access Pass (which comes with most fishing licenses); Discover Pass when parking on Fish and Wildlife, state Department of Natural Resources and Washington state Park lands and two-pole endorsement (where applicable).
Anglers with and without a fishing license can participate in Fish and Wildlife’s 2024 Trout Fishing Derby by redeeming tags from trout caught in stocked lakes.
