SW Washington fishing report

SW Washington – A few coho are still present on the Cowlitz but most are dark and attention has switched to steelhead. Catches have slowed recently as anglers focus efforts on other systems nearby or the west side of the Olympic Peninsula.

Both the east and north forks of the Lewis River are options with hatchery fish present early and wild fish coming later in February. Plugs are a good option in the dropping flows.

The Kalama has slowed and so has interest. Anglers are still working the Washougal as hatchery fish should remain present for the next few weeks.

SW Washington fishing report

SW Washington – Light effort and catch in the region this week as watersheds were inundated with rainfall, causing systems to jump their banks.

The Cowlitz will remain a top option when flows recede with the Kalama and Lewis a distant second option. The smaller Washougal may be a good bet as all of the district’s streams showing improved return rates over last year at this time.

SW Washington fishing report

SW Washington - Steelhead remain the most viable species to pursue with the Cowlitz a top option for district river systems. Side-drifters will likely take the bulk of the catch, especially in higher flows.

The Kalama and Lewis Rivers are also options but these systems typically get smaller returns than the Cowlitz. They also receive less effort so catch rates can be similar to the more popular system.

Don't overlook the Washougal this time of year. This smaller system can produce quality catches, especially on a good return year.

SW Washington fishing report

SW Washington – The Cowlitz is a good option for early run steelhead and this particular run seems to average larger than most for this time of year. Early returns look positive for a good return this season.

The Lewis and Kalama still have a few dark coho present but anglers are focusing more on winter steelhead returns. Fishable numbers should be available for the next several weeks. The Washougal is also an option.

Klickitat coho anglers still have access to fair numbers of fish but success rates are starting to drop and fish are beginning to color up.