The Wahkiakum County Eagle - Established as The Skamokawa Eagle in 1891

Anglers across Washington will be able to fish without a license on the state’s lakes, rivers, and marine waters during this year’s annual Free Fishing Weekend on June 12 and 13.

Residents and non-residents can fish or gather shellfish across the state on those days, in any waters open to fishing, all without a license.

During Free Fishing Weekend, people also do not need a Discover Pass or Vehicle Access Pass to park their vehicle at a state park or lands managed by the Washington State Department of Natural Resources and WDFW.

Some of the opportunities available during free fishing weekend include:

· Trout in lowland lakes, and in the many rivers open to trout fishing throughout the state. Search for a lowland lake near you at https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/locations/lowland-lakes.

· Lingcod on the coast.

· Bass, crappie, perch and other warmwater fish biting in lakes throughout Washington.

· Shad on the Columbia River (portions of the lower river are also open for salmon and steelhead; be sure to see the emergency rule for more information).

There are plenty of other opportunities available statewide; before heading out, anglers should check the current fishing regulations valid through the end of June at https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations, and any emergency rules at https://fortress.wa.gov/dfw/erules/efishrules/.

For those who want fishing advice, WDFW’s YouTube page (https://www.youtube.com/thewdfw) provides "how to" fishing videos designed to introduce techniques to both new and seasoned anglers.

Anglers who take part in Free Fishing Weekend can also participate in the department's 2021 Trout Fishing Derby and redeem tags from trout caught over the weekend. Interested anglers should check for details online at https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/contests/trout-derby.