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Washington · Fishing
Port Orchard sits on the Kitsap Peninsula in western Washington, and while it doesn't have a famous river fishery running through town, it has something a lot of anglers overlook: a cluster of accessible lakes within a short drive of each other.
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Port Orchard sits on the Kitsap Peninsula in western Washington, and while it doesn't have a famous river fishery running through town, it has something a lot of anglers overlook: a cluster of accessible lakes within a short drive of each other. Long Lake, Wye Lake, Kriegler Lake, and Square Lake are all lake-fishing destinations in the area, each small enough that you don't need a boat to fish effectively from shore, though a kayak or small craft opens up more water. These are put-and-take lakes typical of western Washington's lowland fisheries, managed by WDFW and stocked on a seasonal schedule. Expect to target rainbow trout in the cooler months and warmwater species like largemouth bass and yellow perch depending on the lake. The fishing here is straightforward and well-suited to beginners, families, and anyone who wants a low-commitment outing without driving hours to a mountain reservoir. That said, knowing which lake is stocked when, and showing up at the right time of day, makes a real difference in what you bring home.
Long Lake, Wye Lake, Kriegler Lake, and Square Lake are all active lake-fishing spots in the Port Orchard area. Each is a freshwater lake fishery managed under Washington state regulations, so check the WDFW fishing pamphlet for any lake-specific rules before you go.
Western Washington lowland lakes like these are typically stocked with rainbow trout by WDFW during spring and fall when water temperatures are cool enough to support them. Warmwater species such as largemouth bass, yellow perch, and brown bullhead are also common in many Kitsap Peninsula lakes year-round.
Square Lake
~3 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Kriegler Lake
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Wye Lake
~6 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Long Lake
~9 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Tiger Lake
~12 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Larson Lake
~12 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Mission Lake
~14 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Crescent Lake
~14 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Twin Lakes
~21 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Collins Lake
~23 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Erdman Lake
~23 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Palmer Lake
~28 min drive
A worthwhile stop near WA.
Early morning and late afternoon are consistently the most productive windows for trout in particular, when surface temperatures drop and fish move into shallower water. On overcast days, which are common in western Washington, fish tend to stay active longer into the morning.
Shore fishing is viable at all four lakes, and many anglers fish them successfully without any watercraft. A kayak or small inflatable gives you access to coves and drop-offs that are harder to reach from the bank, which can matter on days when fish are holding in deeper water.
Anyone 15 or older needs a valid Washington State fishing license, available through the WDFW website or at local sporting goods stores. For stocked trout, a basic spinning setup with size 10-14 hooks, PowerBait, or small spinners covers most situations. Bring a current copy of the WDFW regulations since bag limits and gear restrictions can vary by lake and season.
