OLYMPIA — In a bid to encourage outdoor activity this Thanksgiving weekend, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is set to stock nearly 65,000 jumbo rainbow trout across 25 lakes statewide. The initiative offers anglers the chance to participate in the annual Black Friday fishing event, with fish weighing up to three pounds and measuring up to 17 inches each. 

“WDFW has offered Black Friday fishing for more than a decade, and it’s a great way to get outdoors over the holiday weekend,” said Steve Caromile, WDFW inland fish program manager in a statement. “We stock jumbo trout in lakes near communities, making it easy to spend a few hours on the water with friends and family.” 

Highlighted locations for this year’s stocking include Fourth of July Lake in Lincoln and Adams counties, Roses Lake in Chelan County, and Lake Alice in King County, among others. Overall, WDFW is stocking nearly 230,000 trout in 67 lakes this fall. 

Anglers aged 16 and older are required to possess a current Washington freshwater fishing license, valid through March 31, 2026. For information on stocking specifics and water quality advisories, specifically around blue-green algae, anglers are encouraged to consult the WDFW website and their county health department. 

    The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife is set to stock around 65,000 jumbo rainbow trout across Washington lakes for Black Friday fishing.