The Fishin' Magician: Lakes opening

Today, March 1, is a big day here for anglers in the Central Washington region. In addition to the lakes that open to in the Quincy Wildlife Area, and near the town of George, the Methow River has reopened to steelhead fishing.

The Methow River is a real favorite of fly anglers. They travel from all over the state and beyond to fish for steelhead on the Methow. Bobber and jig fishers, and Corky and yarn anglers also do very well on the Methow, which is a selective fishery stream, meaning only single barbless hooks and no bait.

The main stem Columbia remains open from Rock Island Dam to below Wells Dam and from the Highway 173 Bridge in Brewster to 400 feet below Chief Joseph Dam.

The Okanogan River is open to steelhead fishing, too, but there are two short sections of the river that will close on March 17. See the WDFW web site for the boundaries. The Wenatchee River remains open and the fishing has been very good at times. Fishing is best in the upper reaches of the river now.

Don't forget the Quincy Tourism Associations Trout Derby is being held this Saturday.