Discover prime trout fishing in Washington’s high mountain lakes
Washington’s breathtaking hiking trails are more than just scenic; they’re gateways to some of the state’s most rewarding fishing spots.
Washington’s high mountain lakes offer anglers of all skill levels an unparalleled and unforgettable experience, combining spectacular trout fishing and stunning views with fantastic hiking, camping, and wildlife watching.
High lakes in Washington are typically above 3,500 feet in the Cascade and Olympic mountains. Western Washington is home to about 1,600 high lakes, with an additional 950 in eastern Washington.
These lakes are typically formed by natural geological processes like glaciation, tectonic activity, and volcanic eruptions. Ranging from small tarns to expansive reservoirs, these crystal-clear waters can be found scattered across some of the most remote and pristine wilderness in the state, with each lake offering a unique fishing experience.
Fish populations in high lakes
Anglers can encounter many trout species in Washington’s high lakes, including rainbow, cutthroat (westslope and coastal), golden, brook, and brown. However, not all high lakes in Washington naturally contain fish, with most lakes lacking the right conditions for self-sustaining trout populations. The lack of reproductive capability in most high lakes means the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) must stock fish to provide recreational fishing in many lakes.
Trout stocking in Washington’s high lakes has a long history, beginning around the 20th century when miners, loggers, and government agencies transported fish to lakes in buckets and large milk cans by horseback or on foot. Over time, the practice became more systematic, peaking between the 1960s and early 1990s. However, due to ecological concerns, such as the impact on native fish species and amphibians, the program has since been re-evaluated and adjusted.
Today, many high lakes in Washington remain fishless, though trout stocking still occurs in hundreds of high lakes statewide. Fishery managers carefully consider the timing, number, and species of fish stocked to ensure conservation of high lakes aquatic communities while providing quality recreational opportunities.
WDFW staff typically stock high lakes during the summer, between June and September, with small trout fry ranging from 1/2 to two inches in length. Stocking occurs on a rotational basis every two to five years, though some lakes are stocked only once a decade. The interval depends on fishing pressure, lake productivity, and the specific fish species being managed. Rotational stocking helps maintain manageable trout populations and ensures fish are all the same age.
This also means that trout abundance and size in stocked lakes can vary from year to year. To find the best fishing spots, high lakes anglers need to do their homework. Checking stocking plans, studying topographical maps, and being prepared to hike long distances are just as crucial to success as having the right tackle.
For the latest fish stocking reports, visit the catchable trout plants webpage. Each lake’s individual webpage provides the most recent stocking information, so if you’re interested in a specific lake, use the search box on the high lakes webpage.
Popular high lakes fishing opportunities
Experienced anglers often have their go-to alpine fisheries, but the central Cascades offer some standout options. Popular spots include Blanca and Heather lakes in Snohomish County, Snow and Schaefer lakes near Leavenworth, and Lake Ingalls in the Teanaway. The Alpine Lakes Wilderness also has countless lakes worth exploring.
For those willing to venture deeper into the North Cascades, exceptional fishing awaits in remote portions of the Pasayten and Lake Chelan-Sawtooth wilderness areas. Here, anglers can find large rainbow and cutthroat trout, often overlooked by others and eager to take a fly or lure. Although trail distances can be far and conditions unpredictable, the rewards are well worth the effort for those prepared for a true backcountry adventure. Cutthroat Lake, Rainy Lake, and Wing Lake offer options off Highway 20 within day-trip range.
In the south Cascades around Mount Rainier and White Pass, numerous lakes offer phenomenal fishing for westslope cutthroat, with larger trout often found in areas further from popular trailheads. For a more accessible option, Leech Lake is one of few high lakes that has drive-in access on the north side of Highway 12. In southwest Washington, Blue and Bear lakes in the Gifford Pinchot National Forest offer a tranquil, forested setting with excellent trout fishing.
Looking for a high lake fishing opportunity near you? WDFW maintains an online list of high lakes in the state, which can be searched or sorted by name, county, or species.
If you are new to high lakes fishing, you may want to try a getting started lake. These lakes are relatively easy to access and give you a good introduction to high lakes fishing. Alternatively, you might opt for an overabundant lake, where the fishing action is likely to be fast and furious due to dense populations of trout.
High lakes fishing tips and techniques
When packing for high lakes fishing, focus on lightweight, compact gear since you’ll typically be hiking several miles uphill with your equipment. Leave the tackle box behind and bring only five to 10 favorite lures or flies, along with 3- to 6-pound test leader, trout split-shot weights, swivels, and pliers in a small carrying case. Collapsible backpacking rods work well, but two-piece trout rods or four-piece fly rods can be strapped to your pack and offer better performance for these smaller fish.
Some anglers pack in small inflatable rafts, float tubes, or paddleboards, and these can greatly increase an angler’s odds, but are typically not necessary for successful fishing. Before heading out, ensure the lake you plan to fish allows non-motorized watercraft.
Lures, such as small spinners and spoons, are effective, especially for cutthroat trout. For easier release and better survival rates, replace treble hooks with single hooks and consider pinching or filing down the barbs. Fly-fishing can be just as effective as bait-fishing; use dry fly patterns when fish are feeding on the surface and nymphs, streamers, or other subsurface patterns when activity is low. Effective dry flies include black gnats, Royal Wulffs, and Adams, while wet flies like woolly worms and chironomids work well below the surface.
Anglers should note that bait-fishing is best only when you plan to keep the fish, as fish often swallow the bait and hook, making release more difficult. Always check local regulations to ensure bait use is allowed and to understand any specific rules designed to promote fish survival and growth.
Unless you plan to keep a fish, such as a non-native brook trout, be sure to use best catch-and-release practices, including:
· Land the fish as fast as possible to avoid exhausting the fish.
· Leave the fish in the water while removing the hook and handle with care.
· Release the fish only after they can maintain their equilibrium.
· For fish so deeply hooked that the fishhook cannot be removed, cut the line and leave the hook behind. Many hooks will eventually rust out.
· In streams, release fish in quiet water.
· Use single, barbless hooks. Barbless are easy to make by squashing the barb with a pair of needle-nose pliers.
Additional high lakes fishing tips can be found on the WDFW website.
Recreate responsibly
Responsible recreation is crucial in the backcountry to preserve the delicate alpine environment. Always follow local fishing and land-use regulations, pack out all trash including fishing line and leaders, and maintain water quality by keeping waste away from lakes and streams. Dispose of fish waste properly, either by packing it out or burying it away from water sources. Be mindful of fragile vegetation and minimize your impact on the environment.
For a safe and enjoyable high-country adventure, prioritize preparedness and respect for nature. Use the buddy system and always inform someone of your plans and expected return. Always be sure to carry essential gear such as rain clothing, warm layers, a survival blanket, compass, map, extra food, flashlight, and first aid kit, especially if venturing off-trail.
Before heading out, ensure the area you plan to fish is open for public access. Due to fire danger or trail conditions, some hiking trails and public access areas may be closed. Anglers should also review the Washington Sport Fishing Rules pamphlet or Fish Washington mobile app for the lake or stream they plan to fish before heading out.
The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife works to preserve, protect, and perpetuate fish, wildlife, and ecosystems while providing sustainable fish and wildlife recreational and commercial opportunities.
