WDFW urges anglers to use caution as local lakes open March 1
Early season fishing opens March 1, and the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife wants to remind anglers to be safe. For ice fishers, this includes checking the ice. With ice being uncommon if not completely absent on any local lakes in the area right now, the department still recommends a buddy system and proper boat safety.
COURTESY PHOTO/TIMA MIROSHNICHENCO/PEXELS
MOSES LAKE — With the March 1 fishing opener approaching, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is reminding Grant County anglers to be careful on late‑winter ice and to check conditions before heading out.
“We are kind of in a transition period; things can change in the next week or so,” said Mark Yuasa, WDFW Communications Director.
He said warming temperatures are already affecting lake surfaces. Yuasa said the agency does not evaluate ice stability for the public. For that reason, he encourages anglers to check out ice thickness in multiple spots along their route.
“Anglers should check the ice themselves before heading out,” Yuasa said.
Safety first
Grant County’s lakes, including Martha, Upper Caliche, Quincy, Burke, Cliff, Crystal, Cup, Lower Spring, Upper Spring, Lenice, Nunnally, Dry Falls and Dusty, often see heavy early‑season activity. But Yuasa said safety must come first.
“Things we recommend are at least four to eight inches of ice,” he said.
Because thickness can vary across the same lake, Yuasa said, fishers need to be mindful. His message was clear for anyone unsure about conditions. Yuasa said anglers should watch for open water or discolored ice before stepping onto the ice.
He added anglers should limit how large they cut their holes.
“Don’t cut more than eight inches in diameter for your fishing hole – it can cause cracks in the ice,” he said.
He also recommended safety gear for all anglers, including those fishing from banks.
“Always wear a life vest,” Yuasa said.
No one should head out alone, he added.
“Buddy systems are always essential for safety,” he said.
Trout projections
WDFW reports strong stocking numbers in Grant County this year for trout.
Martha and Upper Caliche lakes received both fingerlings and catchable‑size trout in 2025 and will receive more in March 2026. Trout are expected to average 13–14 inches, with some up to 20 inches.
Quincy and Burke lakes received more than 21,000 fingerlings last spring and an additional 1,500 catchable trout in February. Most fish will range from 10–12 inches, with some carryovers up to 13-15 inches.
Other Grant County lakes, including Cliff, Crystal, Cup, Lower Spring, Upper Spring, Lenice, Nunnally, Dry Falls and Dusty, were stocked last spring and are expected to produce 12- to 14‑inch trout, with potential for larger fish.
Licenses required
Yuasa also reminded anglers of the basics.
“Anyone over the age of 16 must have a fishing license,” he said.
Licenses are available online or through statewide retailers.