SW Washington fishing report

SW Washington – The Cowlitz has cooled although good numbers of anglers remain motivated to pursue winter steelhead. High water will continue to challenge steelheaders through the weekend.

The Lewis River is also producing a few steelhead and Kalama hatchery workers continue to recycle steelhead to the lower Kalama River Boat Ramp.

SW Washington fishing report

SW Washington – Cowlitz River steelheading was rumored to be excellent as the river was clearing late last week. Side-drifters and boon-dogglers took numerous hatchery fish. The action likely won’t last long.

The Lewis River is another option this time of year but isn’t quite enjoying the returns being witnessed on the Cowlitz.

Hatchery steelhead are already being recycled on the Washougal River. The run is tracking ahead of last year.

Washington fishing

SW Washington – The Cowlitz and Lewis Rivers are about the only options for hatchery steelhead in the district. Cowlitz River anglers stand the best chance with peak catches happening into early January.

Although too early for smelt, dippers are likely to have a 10-pound limit this season on the Cowlitz River. Managers design smelt and sturgeon fisheries at the compact hearing today in Longview.

SW Washington fishing

SW Washington – Early returns of winter steelhead to the Cowlitz hatchery are significantly down while Lewis River returns are significantly up from last year. Catch has been minimal but when rivers return to normal levels, steelhead should be available most these rivers along with the Elocoman, Washougal and Kalama.

The coho run is over on these streams with returns slightly down at most facilities.