Washington · Fishing
Fishing in Tahuya, Washington
Tahuya sits in the heart of the Kitsap and Mason County backcountry on the Olympic Peninsula's eastern fringe, and the fishing here is almost entirely about small, quiet lakes tucked into second-growth forest.
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Tahuya sits in the heart of the Kitsap and Mason County backcountry on the Olympic Peninsula's eastern fringe, and the fishing here is almost entirely about small, quiet lakes tucked into second-growth forest. The six lakes with active listings — Wildberry, Collins, Twin Lakes, Erdman, Jiggs, and Aldrich — are all lake fisheries, which tells you something about the character of fishing in this area: this is rowboat and float-tube territory, not wade-fishing country. Most of these are small, low-traffic lakes where you're more likely to share the water with a great blue heron than another angler. That's the draw. Access varies by lake, and some require a short carry-in for a kayak or inflatable, so checking road and launch conditions before you go is worth the five minutes. Washington State fishing licenses are required for anyone 15 and older, and punch-card or catch-record requirements can apply depending on species and season, so pulling up the current WDFW regulations for Mason and Kitsap counties before your trip is non-negotiable. If you're driving out from Bremerton or Shelton, the roads into some of these lakes can be rough, particularly after wet weather.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of fish can I expect to catch at these Tahuya-area lakes?
The lakes listed here are all classified as lake fisheries, and small lakes in this part of Mason and Kitsap County are typically stocked with rainbow trout by WDFW, with some supporting populations of largemouth bass, yellow perch, and brown bullhead. Check the WDFW Fish Washington stocking database for each specific lake before your trip, since stocking schedules and species vary year to year.
Do I need a boat, or can I fish from shore?
Shore fishing is possible at some of these lakes, but most are small enough that a float tube, kayak, or small rowboat will put you in front of far more fish. A few of these lakes have limited or informal access points, so a lightweight carry-in watercraft is often the most practical option. Check current access conditions for each lake, as launch areas can be muddy or overgrown depending on the season.
What time of year is best for fishing these lakes?
Spring and fall are generally the most productive seasons for trout in western Washington lowland lakes, when water temperatures are cooler. Summer can slow trout fishing as surface temperatures rise, though bass and perch fishing tends to pick up in the warmer months. Ice is rarely a factor in this part of Washington, so winter fishing is possible on mild days.
What gear should I bring?
A light to medium spinning rod in the 6- to 7-foot range handles most situations across these lakes. For trout, PowerBait, small spinners, and worms under a bobber are reliable starting points. If you're targeting bass, bring a few soft plastics and a topwater option for early morning. Pack out everything you bring in, as these are small, low-infrastructure fisheries without trash facilities on site.
Are these lakes suitable for beginners or families with kids?
Yes, small stocked lakes like these are about as approachable as fishing gets in Washington. The calm water, manageable size, and typically willing trout make them a reasonable choice for newer anglers. Just make sure anyone 15 or older has a valid Washington fishing license, and review the basic regulations for the specific lake you're visiting before you go.
