SW Washington Fishing Update

SW Washington – The Cowlitz remains the best option for inland steelheaders. Good numbers of summer runs have been handled at the Cowlitz Salmon Hatchery Separator. Early morning anglers will produce the best results.

The Kalama and North Fork remain very slow.

WDF&W is reporting the likelihood of record numbers of summer steelhead handled in the month of July. Unfortunately, the department can’t be credited for the good success rates as the bulk of these fish are destined for Idaho and Oregon tributaries.

New salmon regulations go into effect on many district streams beginning August 1st. Be sure to check local listings.

SW Washington fishing update

SW Washington – The Cowlitz remains the best summer steelhead option for inland anglers although effort remains highest along lower Columbia beaches as run numbers increase. Plunkers are tipping their offerings with striped coon shrimp.

All district systems are down in summer steelhead adults showing up at the hatchery facilities with the Washougal the one exception. These systems have produced poorly for much of the year.

With passage numbers on the climb, the Wind and Klickitat Rivers should begin to produce more consistent catches. Bobber and jigs will work well when the water is clear. Flows should remain good for much of the season.