Blue Lake Fishing near Tieton, Washington

• Overview

  Set in Yakima County, Washington, this is Blue Lake. Rolling bush runs right down to the water. At roughly 3 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. Compared with other Washington water on our list, it sits high. The closest town, Tieton, is 24 miles distant. Ahtanum follows at 28 miles, then West Valley at 29 miles. This one is safely inside the county line.

• Where to Fish on Blue Lake

  The records we hold are silent on depth, so plan to find it yourself. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. County-wide records name rainbow trout, pumpkinseed and mountain whitefish. It is the county picture; the agency list is water-specific. The shape of Blue Lake rewards a slow walk along one bank.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Long-run averages give August about 55°F and January about 24°F. Four clear seasons, with a proper winter at one end. Ice is part of the season here, ending near early May. Ice usually gives way near early May, and forms again about late November. The weeks after the thaw and the ones before the freeze are the strongest. That is the shape of the year on Blue Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing on record says whether the bank is open or closed. Nothing built is recorded close to the bank here. A small crankbait along the drop and a worm in the thick stuff cover the bass. State or provincial rules still apply whatever the bank status. A polite question at the farm gate opens more banks than anything else. Green Lake sits 1.5 miles off and takes the overflow. Treat Blue Lake as unsettled until someone local tells you otherwise.