Fishing Charters in Washington
Browse fishing charters in Washington that can help you catch striped bass.
High Life Charters
What to bring on your charter fishing trip. The HIGH LIFE specializes in catching Salmon, Rockfish, Lingcod, Tuna, and Halibut out of Westport, Washington.
Lower Columbia Guide Service
Here at Lower Columbia Guide Service, we specialize in salmon, sturgeon, and rockfish fishing on the lower Columbia River and Pacific Ocean. We combine fishing and fun together to create an unforgettable experience.
Best Time to Catch Striped Bass
Striped Bass can be caught year-round in Friday Harbor. Right now in May, activity is high.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Striped Bass
While Friday Harbor isn't typically the first place that comes to mind for Striped Bass, the waters around San Juan Island can hold surprises for anglers willing to explore. Your best bet is to focus on areas where the Strait of Juan de Fuca meets the protected bays around the island. Look for structure like rocky points, kelp forests, and areas with strong tidal flow, as these areas tend to concentrate baitfish. Stripers will often be holding in ambush points waiting for an easy meal. Spring and fall are the prime seasons, coinciding with baitfish migrations. A local tip: try fishing early mornings or late evenings when the light is low. Boat access is readily available in Friday Harbor, but be aware of strong currents and changing weather conditions. Natural presentations like herring or sand lance imitations are generally effective.
Plan a Trip to Friday Harbor
See what's biting in Friday Harbor, find top-rated guides, and estimate charter costs.
How to Catch Striped Bass
Striped Bass Fishing Regulations in Washington
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
2 per day
Size Limit
22-inch to 28-inch slot limit
License Required
Freshwater fishing license
Only legal to fish in the Columbia River downstream from Bonneville Dam.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Washington state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Washington
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best bait for catching striped bass in Friday Harbor?
Striped bass in Friday Harbor respond well to live or cut bait like herring or sand shrimp. Artificial lures such as swimbaits and jigs can also be effective, especially when fished near structure.
What is the legal size limit for striped bass in Friday Harbor, Washington?
In Washington, there's a slot limit for striped bass: you can only keep fish between 22 and 28 inches in length.
If I catch a striped bass outside the size limit in Friday Harbor, what should I do?
If you catch a striped bass that's either smaller than 22 inches or larger than 28 inches, you must immediately release it back into the water unharmed.
Where are the likely places to find striped bass around Friday Harbor?
Look for striped bass near rocky points, current seams, and areas with structure like docks or pilings. The mouths of creeks and rivers entering the harbor can also be productive.
More Striped Bass Fishing in Washington
Other Species to Fish in Friday Harbor
Ready to Catch Striped Bass in Friday Harbor?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.