What Fish Lake Offers

Fish Lake is a small alpine reservoir in the Cascade Range near the town of Concrete, about 60 miles northeast of Seattle. The lake sits at roughly 1,600 feet elevation and holds rainbow trout as its primary fishery. It is accessible by road year-round, making it a practical destination for Seattle-area anglers who want mountain water without a long backcountry hike.

The lake covers approximately 20 acres and is managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. It receives regular stocking with rainbow trout, typically in the 10- to 12-inch range, though fish do grow larger in the lake's cool water. The shoreline is partly forested and partly open, with a boat launch and day-use facilities at the main access point.

Fish Lake is not a destination for trophy fishing or rare species. It is a straightforward, accessible place to fish for stocked rainbows in a mountain setting. The appeal lies in the combination of reliable catch rates, short drive from the Puget Sound region, and the absence of crowds that plague more famous lakes.

Key Takeaways

  • Fish Lake holds stocked rainbow trout and is open to fishing year-round, with the best conditions typically from late spring through early fall.
  • A boat launch and day-use parking are available at the main access area on the south shore, and no permit is required to launch a small boat or fish from shore.
  • Washington fishing regulations require a current fishing license and adherence to daily catch limits, which vary by species and season.
  • The lake sits in the Cascade foothills near Concrete, accessible via State Route 20, making it roughly a 90-minute drive from Seattle.
  • Bait, spinners, and small spoons all produce fish here; fly fishing is possible but not the dominant method on this lake.

Seasons and Best Times to Fish

Fish Lake is open to fishing year-round under Washington state regulations, but conditions and catch rates shift with the seasons. Late spring through early fall—roughly May through September—offers the most reliable fishing and the easiest access. Water temperatures are warmest then, and the stocked rainbows are most active in the shallower zones where shore anglers and small-boat anglers can reach them.

Winter fishing is possible but less productive. The lake can ice over in severe years, closing access entirely, though this is not may provide. Spring runoff can muddy the water and raise levels in May and early June, making early summer (late June onward) a better bet than late spring. Fall fishing remains solid through October, with water cooling but remaining fishable.

Weekday visits, especially mid-week, will be quieter than weekends. The lake does not draw the crowds of larger reservoirs like Lake Union or Lake Washington, but summer weekends still bring a steady flow of anglers and families.

Access, Parking, and Facilities

Fish Lake is reached via State Route 20 heading east from Concrete. From Seattle, take I-5 north to Exit 208 (Bellingham), then head south on State Route 539 to Concrete, then east on SR 20 toward the North Cascades. The lake is signed and sits roughly 15 miles east of Concrete. Total drive time from Seattle is approximately 90 minutes to two hours depending on traffic and starting point.

A day-use area with parking, a boat launch, and vault toilets sits on the south shore. The parking area is free and typically has space even on busy summer weekends, though it can fill on holiday weekends. The boat launch is a single-lane concrete ramp suitable for small boats, kayaks, and canoes. No overnight camping is permitted at the lake itself, though camping is available at nearby Forest Service sites and private campgrounds in the Concrete area.

Shade and picnic tables are limited. Bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent. Cell service is spotty to nonexistent at the lake, so do not rely on your phone for navigation or emergencies.

What Fish Species Live Here and Regulations

Rainbow trout are the only fish species regularly caught at Fish Lake. The lake is stocked annually by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, typically with fingerlings or small juveniles that grow to catchable size within one to two years. Fish in the 10- to 14-inch range are common; larger fish are possible but less frequent.

Washington state fishing regulations require a valid fishing license for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are sold online through the WDFW website, at sporting goods stores, and at some convenience stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license and is useful for occasional anglers. Check the current WDFW fishing pamphlet or website for the exact daily catch limit on rainbow trout in this region—limits vary by water body and can change year to year. As of recent seasons, the daily limit on most Cascade lakes is two fish, but confirm this before you fish.

Bait restrictions may apply; some Washington lakes allow only artificial lures or fly fishing. Fish Lake typically allows bait, spinners, and flies, but verify the current rules on the WDFW website or in the fishing pamphlet before you go.

Fishing Methods and What Works

Bait fishing is the most straightforward approach at Fish Lake. Worms, salmon eggs, and small minnows all work. Cast from shore or from a boat, keep your line moderately tight, and watch for the tap of a bite. Stocked rainbows are not selective; they will take bait readily, especially in the early morning and late evening.

Spinners and small spoons are equally effective and often more fun than bait. A 1/8- to 1/4-ounce spinner in silver or gold, cast and retrieved steadily, will draw strikes. Work the shallower areas near the shoreline and any visible drop-offs. Vary your retrieve speed if you are not getting bites.

Fly fishing is possible but not the dominant method here. A 5- or 6-weight rod with a floating line and small nymphs or dry flies will work, especially in the early morning. The lake is not known for selective trout or technical fishing, so fly anglers should not expect the precision required on spring creeks or tailwaters.

Shore fishing is productive along the south and east shores where the day-use area sits. A small boat or kayak gives you access to deeper water and areas away from the parking lot, which can be quieter and sometimes more productive.

Nearby Lodging and Services

Concrete, about 15 miles west of Fish Lake, has gas stations, a few small restaurants, and a motel or two. It is not a resort town, but basic services are available. The town sits at the junction of SR 20 and SR 539, making it a logical stop for fuel and food before or after your fishing trip.

Camping near Fish Lake is limited to Forest Service sites and private campgrounds in the surrounding area. Skagit Valley Fairgrounds near Concrete offers RV and tent camping. Several Forest Service campgrounds sit along SR 20 between Concrete and the North Cascades Highway, including Marble Fork and Concrete Creek, though these are small and fill quickly on summer weekends.

If you are making a longer trip, the town of Marblemount, a few miles south of Concrete, has additional lodging and dining options. Bellingham, about 45 minutes west, offers full hotel and restaurant services if you prefer a larger town base.

Regulations and Permits You Need

A Washington fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. No special permit is needed to fish Fish Lake itself. If you are launching a boat, you do not need a separate launch permit at this location—the day-use fee covers access.

Check the current WDFW fishing pamphlet or website for any seasonal closures or special rules. Fish Lake is a general-season water, meaning it follows the statewide regulations for rainbow trout. Bait, artificial lures, and flies are typically all allowed, but rules can change, so verify before you fish.

If you are camping at a Forest Service site, a day-use or camping fee may apply depending on the specific campground. Day-use parking at Fish Lake itself is free.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I fish Fish Lake in winter?

Yes, the lake is open year-round, but winter fishing is less productive and access can be blocked by snow or ice. The lake occasionally freezes solid in severe winters, closing it entirely. Spring and summer offer much better conditions and catch rates.

Do I need a boat to fish Fish Lake?

No. Shore fishing from the day-use area is productive, especially along the south and east shorelines. A boat or kayak expands your options and can be quieter, but it is not required.

What is the daily catch limit for rainbow trout here?

Limits vary by water body and can change annually. Check the current Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife fishing pamphlet or website before you fish to confirm the exact limit for Fish Lake in the season you are planning to visit.

How far is Fish Lake from Seattle?

Fish Lake is approximately 60 miles northeast of Seattle, with a drive time of 90 minutes to two hours depending on traffic and your starting point. The route goes north on I-5, then east through Concrete and along State Route 20.

Are there restaurants or lodging at Fish Lake itself?

No. The lake has day-use facilities only. Concrete, 15 miles west, has basic lodging and food options. Marblemount and Bellingham offer more extensive services if you prefer a larger town base.