Fishing Spots in Chelan County

Best places to drop a line and catch something good!

Chelan County is a prime destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a variety of waters from alpine lakes to mighty rivers teeming with fish. Whether you prefer fly fishing in serene mountain streams or trolling in deep lakes, Chelan County has something to offer. Here’s a guide to some of the best fishing spots across the county.

Lake Chelan

Lake Chelan is renowned for its deep, clear waters and abundant fish species.

  • Species: Lake Chelan is home to a variety of fish including Lake Trout (Mackinaw), Kokanee Salmon, Rainbow Trout, and Cutthroat Trout.
  • Best Spots:
    • Lower Basin: Near the town of Chelan, where you can troll for Lake Trout and Kokanee.
    • Upper Lake: Near Stehekin, known for its remote and pristine fishing spots with less fishing pressure.
    • Mill Bay and Areas In-Between: Popular spots include Mill Bay and the areas between Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park and Wapato Point, with the Narrows being a favorite among anglers.
  • Resources: For more information, visit Lake Chelan.

Wenatchee River

The Wenatchee River offers excellent fly fishing opportunities, particularly for trout and seasonal runs of salmon.

  • Species: Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout, and Summer Chinook Salmon.
  • Best Spots:
    • Peshastin: Popular for fly fishing, especially in the spring and summer.
    • Leavenworth: Offers several access points along the river with great fishing opportunities.
    • Season: The Wenatchee River has a summer Chinook season.

Icicle Creek

Icicle Creek, near Leavenworth, is a beautiful spot for trout fishing and seasonal Chinook Salmon runs.

  • Species: Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout, and Spring Chinook Salmon.
  • Best Spots:
    • Near the Fish Hatchery: Provides easy access and good fishing.
    • Upper Icicle Creek: Offers more solitude and scenic views.
    • Season: Icicle Creek has a spring Chinook season.

Entiat River

The Entiat River provides a more secluded fishing experience with diverse fish species.

  • Species: Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout, and Summer Chinook Salmon.
  • Best Spots:
    • Lower Entiat River: Near the confluence with the Columbia River.
    • Upper Entiat River: More remote and less crowded.
    • Season: The Entiat River has a summer Chinook season.
  • Resources: For more information, visit Entiat River.

Columbia River

The Columbia River is known for its diverse fishing opportunities, particularly for larger species.

  • Species: Chinook Salmon, Sockeye Salmon, Sturgeon, Walleye, and Smallmouth Bass.
  • Best Spots:
    • Near Wenatchee: Offers good access and a variety of fish.
    • Rocky Reach Dam: Known for excellent salmon fishing.
    • Chelan Falls: Excellent for Chinook Salmon.
    • Wells Dam: Another top spot for Chinook and Sockeye Salmon.
    • Season: The salmon season generally runs from July 1st to late August.
  • Resources: For more information, visit Columbia River.

Lake Wenatchee

Lake Wenatchee is known for its seasonal fishing opportunities.

  • Species: Sockeye Salmon and Rainbow Trout.
  • Season: Sockeye season at Lake Wenatchee typically occurs in mid to late summer.
  • Resources: For more information, visit Lake Wenatchee.

Fish Lake

Fish Lake near Plain, WA, offers a great fishing experience in a scenic location.

  • Species: Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, and Yellow Perch.
  • Best Spots: The entire lake is known for good fishing, particularly around the edges and near the inlet.
  • Resources: For more information, visit Fish Lake.

Lake Entiat

Lake Entiat offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially for Chinook Salmon.

  • Species: Chinook Salmon and other freshwater species.
  • Best Spots: Near the confluence with the Columbia River and other accessible areas.
  • Resources: For more information, visit Lake Entiat.

Tips for Fishing in Chelan County

  • Licenses: Ensure you have the appropriate fishing license from the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW).
  • Seasons: Be aware of the fishing seasons and regulations for each species and location.
  • Gear: Pack the right gear for the type of fishing you plan to do, whether it’s fly fishing, trolling, or bait fishing.
  • Local Guides: Consider hiring a local fishing guide to enhance your experience and increase your chances of a successful trip.

Resources for Anglers

Fishing in Chelan County offers something for everyone, from serene mountain streams to the expansive Columbia River. Enjoy the diverse fishing opportunities and the stunning natural beauty that this region has to offer.