Fishing Fun: 9 State Parks in Washington to Reel in the Big One

Washington offers diverse landscapes and abundant fishing opportunities across its state parks. Trailer your boat to the ramp, sail out from a private boat dock rental or cruise out from a marina to visit some of the best state parks for fishing in Washington. Pack up your fishing gear and cast a line whether you’re searching for freshwater or saltwater fishing spots.

Deception Pass State Park 

Deception Pass State Park, on Whidbey Island & Fidalgo Island, is known for its stunning views and saltwater fishing. Anglers can catch salmon, lingcod and rockfish in the waters of Puget Sound or go trolling in Rosario Strait. Freshwater fishing is also available at nearby Cranberry Lake.

For shellfish enthusiasts, the area offers prime crabbing and clam digging during the open seasons. Pair your fishing adventure with stunning sunrises, the thrill of tide changes and frequent wildlife sightings of seals and bald eagles.

• Water: Freshwater and saltwater
• Key Species: Salmon, rockfish, lingcod, perch
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat

Lake Wenatchee State Park 

Situated in Leavenworth in the Cascades, Lake Wenatchee State Park is perfect for trout and kokanee salmon fishing. Carved by glaciers, the clear alpine waters offer serene fishing experiences surrounded by mountain views.  

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Trout, kokanee salmon, sockeye salmon
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, wading

Saltwater State Park

Saltwater State Park, between Seattle and Tacoma, provides easy access for surf fishing for salmon, flounder and more from sandy beaches, rocky tide pools and the shoreline. Fishing is complemented by breathtaking views of the Sound, lush green forests and the occasional sighting of seals or diving seabirds.

• Water: Saltwater
• Key Species: Salmon, flounder, sole, perch
• Fishing Type: Kayak, shore

Fort Worden Historical State Park 

For excellent shore and pier fishing, head to Fort Worden Historical State Park in Admiralty Inlet. It’s located in Port Townsend, and anglers can target salmon, flounder and perch while taking in views of the Olympic Mountains, Puget Sound and the Point Wilson Lighthouse.

The salmon runs in the Strait of Juan de Fuca are particularly enticing, drawing anglers eager for a prized catch during the peak season. Crabbing for Dungeness and red rock crabs is also popular here.

• Water: Saltwater
• Key Species: Perch, salmon, flounder, rockfish
• Fishing Type: Shore, kayak, pier

Millersylvania State Park 

Millersylvania State Park - situated on Deep Lake in Olympia - provides great opportunities for shore and boat anglers to catch rainbow trout, largemouth bass and perch. The park features easy shoreline access and a boat launch for those looking to explore the deeper waters from a private boat slip for rent. The calm waters are ideal for kayak fishing.

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Rainbow trout, perch, largemouth bass, bluegill
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, kayak

Ike Kinswa State Park 

Located in Silver Creek on Mayfield Lake, Ike Kinswa State Park is popular for catching rainbow trout, tiger muskie and smallmouth bass. With a well-maintained boat launch and ample shoreline access, the park accommodates various fishing styles, whether you’re casting a line from the shore or trolling in deeper waters.

• Water: Freshwater 
• Key Species: Smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, tiger muskie, largemouth bass, kokanee salmon
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat 

Alta Lake State Park 

Known for its warm waters, Alta Lake State Park offers fishing for rainbow trout, kokanee and bass. It’s located in Pateros in north-central Washington and makes a great spot for family-friendly fishing from private boat docks for rent. Shoreline access is abundant, and the park’s boat launch makes it easy to explore deeper waters for even more exciting catches.

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Bass, kokanee, rainbow trout, largemouth bass
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore, kayak

Steamboat Rock State Park 

Situated on Banks Lake, amid the dramatic landscape of Grand Coulee in Electric City, Steamboat Rock State Park offers prime fishing for walleye, smallmouth bass and trout in a dramatic desert setting. With over 27,000 acres of water, there’s plenty of room for anglers to spread out and explore. The park provides excellent shoreline access and a convenient boat launch.

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Trout, walleye, smallmouth bass, yellow perch
• Fishing Type: Boat, shore

Rainbow Falls State Park 

Located in Chehalis, Rainbow Falls State Park offers a large population of steelhead, salmon and trout, which is ideal for anglers seeking river fishing experiences on the Chehalis River. The calm river waters and shaded banks provide an ideal environment for both fly fishing and spin casting.  While fishing, you might catch glimpses of wildlife such as deer, bald eagles and herons.

• Water: Freshwater
• Key Species: Coho salmon, cutthroat trout, steelhead
• Fishing Type: Shore, fly