Smallmouth Bass

While Issaquah, Washington isn't necessarily known as a smallmouth bass mecca, the nearby Snoqualmie River system offers some surprisingly good opportunities. Focus your efforts on the lower Snoqualmie, closer to its confluence with the Skykomish, where the current slows and rocky structure provides ideal habitat. Late summer and early fall, when water levels are lower and clearer, is prime time. Smallies here aren't huge, averaging 1-3 pounds, but they fight hard in the current. Access can be a challenge; look for public access points off Highway 202 and be prepared to wade. A kayak or canoe can open up a lot more water. Local tip: Pay attention to water clarity. If the river is blown out from recent rains, head to Lake Sammamish; smallmouth can sometimes be found along the rocky shoreline near the southern end of the lake.