The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is dedicated to preserving, protecting, and perpetuating the state’s fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.

Some of the best fishing opportunities in the nation are available in Washington. From fly-fishing for bass and trout on freshwater lakes and streams east of the Cascades to trolling for salmon along the coast to crabbing in Puget Sound, Washington offers a …

Puget Sound Creel Reports. Recreational fishery samplers collect catch information throughout the season at fishing access sites throughout Puget Sound.

Trying to find a specific WDFW employee? Looking for a regional office? We live and work all over Washington, and we want to hear from you. If you're not sure where to start, select "general information" from the options below, or contact us at our main office:. Main office hours of operation: 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Legal Service delivery accepted: 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

WDFW statement on human-coyote incidents in Bellevue, King County. Updated. 4 p.m., March 7, 2025

Creel and catch reports. Fishing and catch information gathered from anglers around the state. Fish stocking. WDFW provides opportunity for anglers by stocking fish in lakes and streams around the state.

Photo by Alex Biswas. These updates reflect changes to the Sportfishing Pamphlet.Rules found in the Sportfishing Pamphlet are in effect unless otherwise noted in the changes listed below.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife: Providing information resources to protect, restore, and enhance Washington's fish and wildlife.

Crabbing is one of Washington's most popular recreational fisheries. Each year, recreational crabbers catch more than 1.5 million pounds of Dungeness crab using pots, ring nets, and — in the case of wade and dive fishers — their bare hands.LicensingAll recreational crabbers 15 years or older must carry a current Washington fishing license. Options range from an annual …

Photo by WDFW. The Evergreen State offers a vast array of fisheries, from Puget Sound to rivers and lakes on both sides of the Cascades. Before heading out, make sure you have the appropriate recreational fishing license and be sure to take the following steps:. Download and read the annual fishing pamphlet, which details rules and regulations statewide.