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Lake Washington

Lake Washington – Year-Round Fishing Near Seattle

Lake Washington offers exceptional fishing opportunities in every season. Located right next to Seattle, it stands as the region’s largest freshwater lake and the second-largest natural lake in the entire state, just behind Lake Chelan. Because of its size, diversity of species, and accessibility, Lake Washington remains a top destination for anglers of all skill levels.

Where Is Lake Washington?

Lake Washington

Lake Washington borders several major cities, including Seattle to the west and Bellevue and Kirkland to the east. Renton sits at the southern end, while Kenmore marks the northern tip. Mercer Island lies in the lake’s southern section, offering easy access to multiple public parks and piers. In addition, the lake is fed by the Sammamish River from the north and the Cedar River from the south—two systems that support year-round aquatic life.

Fishing Opportunities on Lake Washington

Anglers can catch a variety of species here, including:

  • Coastal Cutthroat Trout
  • Kokanee
  • Largemouth Bass
  • Smallmouth Bass
  • Yellow Perch
  • Black Crappie
  • Rainbow Trout
  • Sockeye Salmon
  • Brown Bullhead
  • Green Sunfish
  • Carp

At 365 Charters, we focus primarily on smallmouth bass, although you might also hook into a largemouth bass on occasion. Although bank fishing is available, boat access consistently provides the most productive results. That’s why our trips are designed to take advantage of the lake’s expansive underwater structure by boat.

Best Times to Fish

While fishing is available year-round, May is an ideal time to sight-fish for smallmouth bass. During this period, the bass begin to spawn, making them easier to locate and catch near shallow beds and rocky shorelines.

Lake Washington

Where to Launch or Fish

There are many boat launches, but we launch at the following:

  • Magnuson Park at Sand Point
  • Gene Coulon Park in Renton

In addition, numerous public fishing piers are located around the lake. For example, Kirkland offers access at Waverly Park, Marina Park, and the Old Ship Museum Park. Likewise, Gene Coulon Memorial Park near Renton provides piers with great shoreline access. On the southwest side of the lake, Seward Park offers another popular fishing pier. Meanwhile, Luther Burbank Park on Mercer Island includes boat docks and a finger pier ideal for casting.

Interesting Facts About Lake Washington

In 1854, Thomas Mercer proposed naming the lake after George Washington, following the formation of Washington Territory. Over time, Lake Washington’s structure changed significantly. Before 1916, its outlet was the Black River, which flowed into the Duwamish River and eventually into Elliott Bay. However, the construction of the Lake Washington Ship Canal lowered the lake’s water level by eight feet. This project also redirected the Cedar River into the lake, making it the primary freshwater source today.

Because of its deep basin and muddy bottom, traditional bridge supports couldn’t be built. Instead, engineers constructed floating concrete bridges that span the lake. These pontoons float securely atop the water and are anchored with cables to the lakebed—an innovative solution that still functions today.

Lake Washington combines rich history, excellent fishing, and easy access. Whether you’re casting from a pier or setting out by boat, there’s always something biting. 

Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) regulations apply, so not all fish can be retained. We only catch-and-release bass.

Contact us today to book your next trip and discover the incredible angling Lake Washington has to offer!