Fishing across southwest Washington has been mixed this week, with coho runs continuing to decline and only scattered early steelhead appearing in tributaries. Reservoirs such as Merwin remain highly productive, with anglers reporting consistent catches and quick limits. The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is hosting its annual Black Friday fishing event, offering families a seasonal alternative to shopping. Coastal opportunities are also strong, as razor clam digs have been approved for the holiday weekend, adding another outdoor option for recreation.
LEWIS RIVER Flows on the Lewis River are steady at 4,400 cubic feet per second, with only minor drops for weekly monitoring. Fishing activity has been inconsistent, with some anglers reporting scattered coho catches while others saw little success. Boat anglers noted occasional brighter fish, while shore anglers experienced slower action overall. Early steelhead are expected to begin appearing in greater numbers soon, though conditions remain unpredictable at this time.
KALAMA RIVER Reports from the Kalama River indicate mixed success, with some anglers finding fish in the early mornings while others saw little activity. Overall, catches have been limited, and fresh fish are not present in large numbers. Anglers covering more ground have had better chances, though results remain inconsistent. Current conditions suggest opportunities exist but require persistence and movement along the river.
WASHOUGAL RIVER The Washougal River has slowed considerably, with late-season coho now in poor condition and less likely to bite. A few winter steelhead are beginning to enter the system, though encounters remain rare. Chum salmon are abundant but cannot be harvested under current regulations. Rainfall this week is expected to bring some steelhead back to the hatchery, offering limited opportunities for anglers.
COWLITZ RIVER Recent hatchery operations on the Cowlitz River recorded thousands of coho along with smaller numbers of Chinook, steelhead, and cutthroat trout. Releases were made into several tributaries and reservoirs, and river flows below Mayfield Dam measured 3,460 cubic feet per second. Despite strong hatchery counts, on-the-water reports have been sparse, with many anglers leaving without fish. This suggests fish remain present but are not concentrated in large schools, and steelhead are not expected in significant numbers until January.
TRIBUTARY WEIR REPORTS All weirs have now been removed for the season. This marks the end of weir reporting until next year. Monitoring will resume when operations restart, closing out the current cycle of updates. Anglers should expect no further weir data until the following season.
COLUMBIA RIVER With salmon season winding down and winter steelhead yet to arrive, attention has shifted to other species. Smallmouth bass are a primary option during this period, particularly in areas with low current. Cooler water conditions influence fish behavior, making them less active and concentrated near structure. Opportunities remain for those willing to explore accessible spots along both banks of the river.
COLUMBIA RIVER CREEL REPORTS Creel surveys for salmon, steelhead, sturgeon, shad, and walleye in the Columbia River ended on October 31. These counts will resume in February 2026. Until then, no new creel data will be available for the mainstem river. Anglers should look for updated reports when surveys restart in the new year.
MERWIN AND YALE LAKE Merwin Reservoir continues to produce excellent results, with anglers reporting limits within a few hours. Yale Lake has shown similar productivity, with consistent catches across the reservoir. Reports indicate steady action and reliable opportunities for kokanee fishing. Both lakes remain strong options for those seeking dependable outings during the late fall season.
LONG BEACH/BUOY 10 Razor clam digs have been approved for the week following Thanksgiving. The schedule includes multiple evening low tides from December 2 through December 8 across Long Beach, Twin Harbors, Copalis, and Mocrocks. Each day offers a specific window for harvesting, with tide levels varying from moderate to very low. These digs provide a seasonal opportunity for coastal recreation and gathering.
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