This is the fifth and final installment for our series of best fishing locations by region. Check out our previous editions on the Southeast, Northeast, Midwest, and Southwest.
There’s something legendary about America’s northwest. Just look at the names: the Bighorn Mountains, Glacier National Park, Olympic Peninsula. It seems like everywhere you turn there are larger-than-life landscapes and historic locations.
Getting caught up in the majesty of the northwest is easy, but anglers know that the region is also a great place for fishing. With abundant trout streams, lakes, rivers, and easy access to the Pacific Ocean, there are plenty of places for northwest anglers to visit.
Let’s take a look at the top fishing spots that you should know about in the northwest.
Lake Coeur d’Alene, Idaho
When you think of fishing in Idaho, or anywhere in the northern Rockies, you probably think of shallow trout streams full of clear mountain water. Well you should also think of Lake Coeur d’Alene, one of the best bass lakes in the country. This lake has been increasing in productivity over the years, and was named the #11 bass lake in the nation for Bassmasters’ 2015 list.
Puget Sound, Washington
Located to the west of Seattle, Puget Sound is one of the finest saltwater fishing areas in the world. This narrow channel offers excellent angling, and it’s one of the main sources for Seattle’s vibrant fish markets. Different sections are open for fishing at different times of the year, but the area from Vashon Island to Admiralty Inlet is one of the best places to catch king salmon.
Bighorn Lake, Wyoming/Montana
Located at the bottom of a deep canyon, Bighorn Lake offers supreme fishing for anglers of all kinds. The area is a favorite location for campers, and anglers looking to catch bass, catfish, trout, walleye, and crappie can get in on the fun too. With a great park, the area also has ponds for shore, canoe, and kayak fishing.
Columbia River, Oregon/Washington
Oregon and Washington residents are spoiled with great saltwater fishing thanks to the Pacific Ocean, but anglers who want a different experience can head to the Columbia River, which forms most of the border between these two northwestern states. The Columbia River is one of the top locations for bass, and it’s also a national hotspot for walleye, a species usually associated with the center of the country.
Noxon Rapids Reservoir, Montana
Montana anglers have lots of options thanks to mountain streams and rivers like the Yellowstone. One lake in particular stands out as the top choice for bass anglers: the Noxon Rapids Reservoir. Meaty largemouth are a common sight on this scenic lake, helping create a bass craze in a state primarily known for it’s trout fishing.
Performance Fishing Apparel for the Northwest
You can get excellent apparel for fishing in the northwest by visiting the online store from Huk. You’ll find quality apparel, including long-sleeve shirts, fishing masks, and more!