The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife will recognize the opening of fishing season with an annual statewide trout fishing derby. Lakes throughout the state open April 27.
Fish carrying a derby tag have been planted in more than 100 lakes statewide, the department’s news release said. The fishing derby is open until Oct. 31.
Anglers must have a valid license to go fishing. Licenses can be purchased online at the department’s website, at locations around the state, or by calling 360-902-2464.
The department plants trout in lakes around the state throughout the year.
“Depending on the lake, people may encounter rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee salmon and other fish species,” the department said.
The department planted more than 14.5 million trout and kokanee over the last year, with another 143,000 jumbo trout. The catchable trout average 12 to 14 inches, while the jumbo trout typically are bigger than 14 inches.
The department last week also launched an updated version of its Fish Washington app, designed to convey up-to-the-minute fishing regulations.
The app was redesigned to address issues users had reported with earlier versions, use less memory and data, and require fewer updates. Developers also added the U.S. Geological Service river gauges, more consistency when posting emergency regulations, and map upgrades.
People will be able to connect with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration website to access tidal predictions for coastal waters and sections of the Columbia River.