Smallmouth Bass

While Woodway, Washington, is known for its Puget Sound access, targeting smallmouth bass requires venturing slightly inland to freshwater lakes and rivers. Nearby Lake Washington, though a larger body of water, holds a decent population of smallmouth bass, especially around docks, rocky points, and underwater structures. The Sammamish River, which flows into Lake Washington, can also be productive. The best time to fish for smallmouth here is during the warmer months, from late spring through early fall (June-September), when the water temperatures are more favorable. A practical tip for Lake Washington is to focus on areas with submerged vegetation, as these provide cover for both bass and their prey. Public access can be found at various parks and boat launches around the lake. The smallmouth in this region tend to be opportunistic feeders, so a variety of lures, including crankbaits, spinnerbaits, and soft plastics, can be effective.