Fishing at Ridge Lake, King County, Washington

• Overview

  Ridge Lake belongs to King County, Washington. What surrounds it is rolling hill. At 2 acres it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. It is one of the smaller waters we list in King County. You are 18 miles from Tanner. After that come Riverbend at 18 miles and Wilderness Rim at 19 miles. Rules can differ a short way off, since the county line is near.

• Where to Fish on Ridge Lake

  Depth is not on record here, which means reading the ground instead. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. A soft bed grows weed late into autumn, which keeps fish shallow. Records held for King County cover Chum salmon, Coho salmon, Chinook salmon, sockeye salmon and yellow perch. At least one recorded species is protected in parts of its range; read the local rules before targeting anything. At Ridge Lake the first feature you find is worth twenty minutes.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warm month here averages 58°F; the cold one sits at 26°F. Conditions shift steadily rather than sharply. It should never be assumed safe, whatever the month says. Late winter often fishes better here than midsummer does. It holds true on Ridge Lake more years than not. A settled spell fishes better than a bright one.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. Mapping shows no built access close by; expect to walk in from wherever you can leave the car. Trout here take small spinners, spoons and, where fly water allows, a nymph or dry. Local rules can differ across the county line, so check where you stand. Rules for boats are stricter than rules for the bank in many places. Failing this one, try Gravel Lake, 0.2 miles away. Treat Ridge Lake as unsettled until someone local tells you otherwise.