Largemouth Bass

If you're looking to hook into some largemouth bass near Kirkland, Washington, Lake Washington is your prime target. What makes this fishery special is its diverse structure – docks, lily pads, submerged timber, and rocky points – all prime habitat for largemouth. Spring (late April-May) and fall (September-October) are the most productive times. During the spring, focus on pre-spawn and spawning bass in the shallower, warmer bays. In the fall, as the water cools, the fish will be actively feeding up for winter. Try fishing around Juanita Bay Park; it offers good shore access and a boat launch for kayaks or smaller boats. Be mindful of the wind, as Lake Washington can get choppy. Local tip: Largemouth in Lake Washington often respond well to dark-colored jigs and creature baits worked slowly along the bottom, mimicking crawfish. The largemouth here can be surprisingly large, with fish over 5 pounds not uncommon.