The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) announced Friday morning that the brief closure of Coho salmon fishing on Lake Washington is over. Anglers can now fish in the designated areas through October 31, 2026.
Areas where fishing is permitted
Fishing is open north of the SR 520 Albert D. Rosellini Evergreen Point Floating Bridge, east of the Montlake Bridge, and on the stretch of the Sammamish River near Kenmore from the 68th Avenue NE Bridge downstream. These zones were the focus of the earlier ban.
Why the ban was lifted
The original two‑day closure was prompted by early indications of low Coho salmon returns. However, recent counts at the Ballard Locks have “improved significantly over the past week,” according to WDFW officials. The agency says the improved numbers are sufficient to resume Coho retention fishing in the lake.
How anglers can stay informed
Preliminary salmon counts taken at the Ballard Locks during survey hours are posted on the Lake Washington salmon counts website. For additional details or questions, anglers can contact WDFW’s North Puget Sound Region at 425‑775‑1311.
What this means for the community
Reopening the fishery provides a welcome opportunity for local anglers and families who enjoy weekend outings on the lake. It also reflects the department’s commitment to monitoring fish populations closely and adjusting regulations in response to real‑time data.
Residents are encouraged to follow all fishing regulations, practice catch‑and‑release where required, and respect the natural resources that make Lake Washington a treasured part of the region’s outdoor heritage.
Original reporting: Renton Reporter — read the source article.
