The wait is almost over for anglers across Washington as the lowland lakes fishing season opens on April 26, with thousands expected to hit the water. This year also marks the 10th anniversary of the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) Trout Derby, featuring more tagged fish and prizes than ever before.
“Opening day is one of our biggest and most important days for anglers. There are great fishing opportunities at lakes statewide for people of all ages and backgrounds,” WDFW inland fish program manager Steve Caromile stated in a news release. “Spring weather can be difficult to predict, but the opener still draws plenty of interest and brings families and people together. It’s always a great day, no matter the weather.”
The Trout Derby runs from April 26 through Oct. 31 and includes more than $54,000 in prizes. Tagged trout are marked with an orange tag near the dorsal fin, according to the release.
To participate, anglers must have a valid 2025 fishing license. Eligible options include the Get Outdoors package, annual freshwater, annual Fish WA, annual combination or temporary combination licenses.
Trout Derby lakes in Southwest Washington include:
• Clark County: Battle Ground Lake, Klineline Pond and Lacamas Lake
• Cowlitz County: Horseshoe Lake, Kress Lake and Lake Sacajawea
• Klickitat County: Rowland Lake and Spearfish Lake
• Lewis County: Carlisle Lake, Fort Borst Park Pond, Mineral Lake and South Lewis County Park Pond
• Skamania County: Icehouse Lake and Swift Power Canal
Statewide trout stocking plans are available at shorturl.at/xBvXC.
