Can You Fish in Lake Sutherland, Washington? A Comprehensive Guide for Anglers

Lake Sutherland, located in Clallam County, Washington, is a popular destination for anglers seeking a variety of fish species. Situated at an elevation of 528 feet and spanning 351.3 acres, this freshwater lake offers excellent opportunities for fishing throughout the year.

Fish Species in Lake Sutherland

Lake Sutherland is home to several species of fish, including:

Kokanee (landlocked sockeye salmon)
Rainbow trout
Coastal cutthroat trout (resident)

These fish species thrive in the lake’s cool waters and provide anglers with exciting fishing experiences.

Fishing Regulations and Season

Lake Sutherland is open for fishing from the last Saturday in April through October 31st. The Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife (WDFW) has implemented regulations to ensure the sustainability of the fishery:

A minimum size limit of 6 inches and maximum of 18 inches for kokanee and sockeye salmon, providing protection for juvenile fish and returning adults
Trout plants into Lake Sutherland have been suspended while dam removal and fish restoration activities proceed
Two-pole fishing is not allowed

It’s important for anglers to familiarize themselves with the current regulations before fishing in Lake Sutherland.

Fishing Techniques and Gear

Anglers can employ various techniques to catch fish in Lake Sutherland, depending on their preferences and the target species:

Trolling with downriggers to target kokanee and trout at different depths
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Using wedding rings or other lures tipped with bait like corn or maggots
Casting from shore or fishing from a boat to target trout and cutthroat trout

Anglers should use appropriate gear for the species they are targeting, such as light tackle for kokanee and heavier gear for trout and cutthroat trout.

Accessing Lake Sutherland

Lake Sutherland offers good shoreline access, although much of the shoreline is privately owned. The WDFW maintains a boat launch on the lake, which is accessible to the public.

Anglers can also find nearby amenities, such as restrooms, to enhance their fishing experience.

Fishing Reports and Community

Anglers can stay informed about the latest fishing conditions and catch reports for Lake Sutherland through various online resources:

Northwest Fishing Reports (NWFR) provides a platform for anglers to share their experiences and report on their catches
Fishing forums and social media groups dedicated to Washington fishing can be valuable sources of information

By engaging with the fishing community, anglers can learn from the experiences of others and plan their trips to Lake Sutherland more effectively.

Conservation and Sustainability

The WDFW is committed to the conservation and sustainability of the fishery in Lake Sutherland. The agency works to maintain healthy fish populations and ensure that anglers can enjoy fishing opportunities for years to come.

Anglers can contribute to conservation efforts by practicing responsible fishing techniques, adhering to regulations, and reporting any concerns or violations to the appropriate authorities.