If you’re one for variety, try your hand at the fly fishing Seattle has in store. Fly anglers catch the area’s most challenging—and thrilling—game fish, from freshwater streams in the Olympic Mountains to the shores of Puget Sound. With opportunities for all skill levels and a fish for every season, there’s no excuse to miss out on this experience!

Saltwater Fly Fishing

Puget Sound offers fantastic fly fishing opportunities 365 days a year. Casting flies in these waters is more demanding than conventional fishing, but the reward is that much sweeter. You can target coastal Cutthroat Trout in these waters any time of year. In late summer and fall, the sound is full of Coho and Chum Salmon, accompanied by Pink Salmon in odd-numbered years. With more than 1,500 miles of shoreline at your disposal, it’s easy to test the waters without hiring a boat. A 9-weight rod will suffice, unless you’re after trophy-sized fish.

When you’re ready to expand your reach, there’s no shortage of captains who are ready to show you the best of Seattle’s saltwater fly fishing. You’ll fish from a boat in shallow water near the shoreline, casting hand-tied flies and stripping the line much like you would while fishing in freshwater. For beginners, we recommend starting with a guide so that you can learn about the gear and techniques while you fish.

Freshwater Fly Fishing

Steelhead Trout are the official state fish of Washington, so it’s no surprise that you can hook into these ferocious silver bullets most of the year. Odds are you’ll find Steelhead in most of the rivers and mountain streams surrounding Seattle, but two of the most productive are the Cle Elum and Yakima Rivers. Just a one-hour drive from the city, both rivers offer year-round fishing for native Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout. Dry fly, streamer, and nymphing tactics all work well in these waters.

Small streams in the Cascade and Olympic Mountains are easy to overlook, but fly anglers are wise to put these secluded waters at the top of their list. While you might feel like you’re fishing in remote wilderness, these mountain streams are easily accessible from the city. Swimming in the cool, gin clear waters are Cutthroat and Rainbow Trout, which provide great action for the pro and novice alike. Try using a light, slow action rod if you’re a beginner and you’ll find the streams incredibly rewarding.

Need to Know

Anglers age 16 and above must purchase a Washington fishing license, available online. Many fly fishing guides in Seattle encourage catch and release, but some species are legal to keep. Be sure to ask your guide about local regulations ahead of time if you plan on keeping your catch, or take a look at the latest updates from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife.