SW Washington by Seth Kolshinski
Heavy rainfall has reshaped the fishing landscape across Southwest Washington this week. Most tributaries have surged and muddied, while the Columbia River has slowed significantly with coho season nearing its end. Merwin Lake continues to produce limits or near-limits, though Yale Lake remains puzzlingly low despite recent rain. Razor clamming has been exceptional along the coast, with quick limits and ideal tides. Anglers should prepare for shifting conditions and take advantage of the remaining prime opportunities before the season winds down.
Lewis River
The Lewis River is flowing strong and fishing has been excellent. Both boat and bank anglers are reporting solid action. General techniques are producing across various stretches of the river. With reservoir refilling expected, this weekend may be the last chance to target late-season coho. Conditions should remain stable for now.
Kalama River
No new reports have come in from the Kalama River this week. Observations suggest very little angling activity. A few scattered efforts were noted, but results were minimal. The river appears quiet and may not be a top option at the moment. More updates will follow as conditions change.
Washougal River
The Washougal was productive last week but has since blown out due to heavy rain. Current conditions are poor and not expected to improve until after the weekend. Anglers looking for coho may want to consider more stable systems. Recovery could begin by Sunday, but prospects remain uncertain. Stay tuned for updates.
Cowlitz River
The Cowlitz continues to improve with fresh fish arriving daily. Flows are holding steady thanks to dam control. Anglers are finding success throughout the river using a variety of standard approaches. Morning hours have been most productive. Activity is expected to increase heading into the weekend.
Drano Lake
Drano Lake is winding down for the season. Fishing pressure has dropped and catch rates have followed. This marks the final report of the year for this location. A few anglers were out, but results were limited. Time to look ahead to next year.
Tributary Weirs
All weirs across Southwest Washington have been removed this week. This includes structures on the Grays, Elochoman, Germany Creek, Coweeman, Green, Toutle, Cedar Creek, Kalama, and Washougal rivers. Their removal signals the end of seasonal monitoring. Anglers should note this change when planning trips. Natural river conditions will now prevail.
Columbia River Creel Reports
Effort and catch rates vary across Columbia River zones. Some areas saw light activity with modest success. Others reported little to no effort. The season is tapering off in many locations. Expect reduced pressure moving forward.
Merwin and Yale Lakes
Yale Lake remains unusually low despite recent rainfall, with no clear explanation from dam operators. Merwin Lake continues to fish well, though results vary. Anglers are using typical lake setups with moderate success. Crowds are light, and conditions remain favorable. No standout patterns reported this week.
Razor Clamming – Long Beach & Buoy 10
Razor clamming has been excellent this week, especially at Long Beach. Tides are ideal, with negative evening lows through Sunday. Limits are coming quickly for those who time it right. Twin Harbors, Copalis, and Mocrocks are also producing well. Coastal conditions are prime for clamming enthusiasts.
Stay fishy,
Seth Kolshinski
There is A LOT more for SW Washington Members here, and SW Washington members can find our complete Columbia River reports here.