SW Washington Fishing

SW Washington- As is typical this time of year, early season steelheading is slowing for quality fish with just a few fresh fish remaining on the Cowlitz, Lewis, Kalama and Washougal systems, in order of preference. Returns were unimpressive in the early season, likely to mimic late season returns as well.

Smelt often make their way into the mainstem Columbia this time of year but will remain off-limits to dippers and netters again this year. There will have to be substantial evidence of a burgeoning population in order to justify another consumptive opportunity.