Washington · Fishing
Fishing in Colville, Washington
Colville sits in the middle of Stevens County, and the fishing around town leans heavily toward small lakes rather than rivers.
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View on mapFishing · 8 spots
Colville sits in the middle of Stevens County, and the fishing around town leans heavily toward small lakes rather than rivers. Little Twin Lakes, Thompson Lake, McDowell Lake, Long Lake, Keogh Lake, Peery Lake, and Hatch Lake are all within reasonable driving distance and represent the kind of quiet, accessible lake fishing that works well for both families and anglers who want a low-key day on the water. Most of these are put-and-take fisheries managed by Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, stocked with rainbow trout through the season, though some lakes also hold bass, perch, or other warmwater species depending on the water body. Access points vary — a few have developed boat launches, others are carry-in only or have limited shore-fishing spots — so it's worth checking WDFW's access maps before you load up the truck. The area doesn't draw the crowds you'd see on bigger destination lakes in eastern Washington, which means you can often find a quiet corner even on a summer weekend. A basic Washington fishing license is required for anyone 15 and older, and a Discover Pass may be needed at certain access points.
Frequently asked questions
What species can I expect to catch at these lakes near Colville?
Rainbow trout are the most consistent target across Little Twin Lakes, Thompson Lake, McDowell Lake, Long Lake, Keogh Lake, Peery Lake, and Hatch Lake, as WDFW stocks several of these waters through the season. Some lakes in the area also hold largemouth bass, yellow perch, or bluegill, but trout are the primary draw. Check the WDFW regulations booklet or their online fishing planner for species-specific information on each water body before you go.
When is the best time of year to fish these lakes?
Spring is generally the most productive window, typically from late April through June, when water temperatures are cool and stocked trout are actively feeding after winter. Early summer mornings can also be solid before surface temperatures climb. By mid-summer, trout in shallower lakes push deeper and fishing slows during midday heat, so early morning or evening outings are worth the effort.
What gear should I bring for lake fishing around Colville?
A light to medium spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range handles most situations well. For trout, PowerBait, small spinners like a Rooster Tail, or a worm under a bobber are reliable starting points. If you're fishing from shore, a longer rod helps you reach deeper water. Bring a net, a valid Washington fishing license, and a cooler if you plan to keep fish.
Do I need a boat, or can I fish from shore?
Several of these lakes have fishable shoreline, and a boat is not required to have a productive day. That said, a small rowboat, kayak, or float tube opens up more of the water column and lets you cover structure that shore anglers can't reach. Check access conditions at each specific lake, as some have developed launches while others are carry-in only or have limited parking.
Are there any regulations I should know before fishing these waters?
Washington requires a fishing license for anyone 15 and older, available through WDFW online or at local sporting goods stores. Daily limits, gear restrictions, and season dates can vary by lake, so review the current WDFW freshwater regulations for Stevens County before your trip rather than assuming standard statewide rules apply everywhere. A Discover Pass may also be required for vehicle access at some state-managed launch sites.
