Fishing Lake Chelan
Popular Fish Species Lake Chelan, WA
Kokanee Salmon Fishing
Sockeye salmon which remain landlocked, never migrating to the ocean, are called kokanee salmon. On-going stocking of kokanee salmon by the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife helps to maintain a nice population for the fishery. Typically kokanee average one to two pounds. As one of the premiere kokanee fishing lakes in Washington, Lake Chelan delivers plenty of fish above normal averages. These tasty fish school in lakes at depths which remain at ideal temperatures of between 48 and 58 degrees. Once this depth is identified, use a fish finder to locate schools. Use small lures trolled at the appropriate depth. The can also be caught using corn, but the main way they are caught is using flashy lures which they attack when the lure intrudes their space. In winter, once the ice is safe, try ice fishing for kokanee.
Chinook Salmon Fishing
Chinook Salmon, like all Pacific salmon, die after spawning. Fishing for salmon can allow anglers the opportunity to catch large specimens. They grow large and put up a great fight when hooked. Chinook Salmon have been stocked in Lake Chelan for many years. Fish for chinook with down riggers to troll around the thermocline. Use flashers, trailed with bait for best results. The current Washington state record for chinook salmon stands at over 68 pounds. Chinook salmon are also known as king salmon.
Lake Trout Fishing
Year round, fishing for lake trout in Lake Chelan is often quite good and the fish are plentiful. These large trout prefer water below 60 degrees, however they can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 150 feet or more during Summer and Winter. It is a monumental assistance to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish and other small fish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing for big lake trout with spoons can deliver some great catches.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, lake trout, cutthroat, chinook salmon, kokanee, whitefish and burbot at Lake Chelan in Washington.
Lake Chelan Fishing Video
If you like camping, boating and fishing, Lake Chelan is your dream come true. Swimming in this 33,000-acre lake are bass, trout, salmon, whitefish, kokanee and burbot. This dream destination is located in the north-central part of the state, at Chelan Falls, WA.
Lake Chelan in Washington is a captivating destination for fishing enthusiasts, offering a pristine alpine setting and excellent angling opportunities. The lake is renowned for its diverse fish population, making it a popular spot for both recreational and professional anglers. Popular fish species found in Lake Chelan include kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, lake trout (also known as Mackinaw), and smallmouth bass. These species provide a thrilling challenge and can grow to impressive sizes, offering anglers a chance to reel in trophy-worthy catches.
Lake Chelan in Washington offers a captivating blend of fishing, boating, and camping experiences. With its diverse fish species, stunning boating opportunities, and nearby camping options, the lake provides a well-rounded outdoor adventure for enthusiasts. Whether you're angling for kokanee salmon, cruising the calm waters by boat, or spending a night under the starlit sky at a lakeside campground, Lake Chelan offers abundant recreational opportunities for visitors to relax, connect with nature, and create cherished memories.
Chelan Lake has about 140 miles of shoreline, most of which is not accessible for fishing from shore. However, there are areas at the campgrounds, parks and along Lakeshore Drive where anglers can fish from the bank or launch a canoe or kayak. The elevation is 1,100 ft above sea level. There is good fishing year round, although some areas of the lake are closed during Spring, so check regulations before fishing. There are marinas, boat rentals, restaurants, stores, lodging, camping and RV parks located around the lake.
Primary fish species residing in Lake Chelan
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
Lake Chelan Amenities
Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boating is a favorite activity on Lake Chelan, allowing visitors to explore the expansive waters and access prime fishing areas. The lake permits both motorized and non-motorized boats, providing anglers with a range of options. From powerboats to kayaks, boaters can navigate the crystal-clear waters, discover secluded coves, and find optimal spots for casting their lines. The stunning mountain views and serene ambiance make boating on Lake Chelan an unforgettable experience.
Fishing Boat Rentals
Lake Shores Watercraft and Boat Rentals
Rentals: Pontoon boats and runabouts
509 682-2222
Shoreline Watercraft & Boat Rental
Rentals: Pontoon boats
509 682-1515
Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings
Chelan River Park Public Boat Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, at the west end of the Webster Ave Bridge, off E Farnham Ave, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Lake Chelan State Park Public Boat Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, off S Lakeshore Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.
Old Mill Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, north side, off Mill Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.
Twenty-Five Mile Creek State Park Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off NF 23 Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.
Marinas
Manson Bay Marina
86 Pedoi Street
Manson, WA 98831
509 687-9635
Sunset Marina Lake Chelan
1350 W. Woodin Avenue
Chelan, WA 98816
509-682-7777
Fishing Guides On Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan Adventures - trout, salmon
If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.
Fishing License
Click here for a Washington fishing license.
Camping options around Lake Chelan cater to outdoor enthusiasts, providing an opportunity to extend their stay and fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area. Several campgrounds are located along the shores of the lake, offering various amenities and picturesque settings. Camping near Lake Chelan allows visitors to enjoy the tranquility of nature, wake up to breathtaking views, and have convenient access to fishing opportunities throughout their camping trip.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Lake Chelan State Park Campground - 509 687-3710
Lakeshore RV Park, City of Chelan - 509 682-8023
Twenty Five Mile Creek State Park Campground - 509 687-3610
Graham Harbor Campground - 509 682-4900
Domke Falls Campground - 509 682-4900
Moore Point Campground - 509 664-9200
Cascade Creek Campground - 509 664-9200
Prince Creek Campground - 509 682-4900
Safety Harbor Campground - 509 682-4900
Deer Point Campground - 509 682-4900
Mitchell Creek Campground - 509 682-4900
Kamei Campground & RV Park - 509 687-3690
Wapato Lake Campground - 509 687-6037
Lake Chelan WA Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
Lake Chelan
Lake Chelan State Park
7544 S Lakeshore Rd
Chelan, WA 98816
509 687-3710
Fishing lakes in each state.
082924
Lake Chelan in Washington.
WASHINGTON
Information about fishing lakes in Washington
Lake Chelan offers bass, trout, salmon, whitefish, kokanee and burbot fishing in north-central Washington.
