Rainbow Trout

Chasing rainbow trout around Mount Vernon? You'll primarily be looking at the Skagit River and its tributaries, as well as a few stocked lakes in the surrounding areas. The Skagit offers opportunities for both wild and hatchery-raised rainbows. Spring and fall are generally considered the best times, with the spring seeing the trout actively feeding after the winter and the fall bringing spawning runs. For the Skagit, consider drift fishing with nymphs or small spinners. For the stocked lakes, PowerBait or worms are often effective. A crucial tip for the Skagit: be aware of tribal fishing regulations and closures, as they can change frequently. Also, pay attention to water clarity; the Skagit can get muddy after heavy rains, making fishing difficult. Local rainbows can be quite selective, so having a variety of flies or lures is always a good idea. Remember to check the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) stocking reports to see which lakes have been recently stocked.