Opening Day for Cutthroat Fishing in Western Washington Rivers: A Fresh Start to the Season

The buzz around the first day of the cutthroat fishing season in Western Washington rivers is unmatched. For anglers who call this region home, opening day marks the beginning of a much-anticipated chapter in the year’s fishing calendar. After two months of winter closure, it’s the perfect time to gear up, put your knowledge to the test, and enjoy the unique challenge of catching sea-run cutthroat in Washington's streams and rivers.

As a community-centered business, Spawn Fly Fish is always eager to help seasoned anglers and newcomers alike prepare for opening day. Whether you're a local or planning your first trip to one of the region’s incredible rivers, it’s essential to start with the right gear, a well-tied fly, and an understanding of the conditions that shape the fishing landscape.

Western Washington rivers are home to a number of sea-run cutthroat populations that I think are vastly under estimated. We often target them in the estuarine and lower river systems. This time of year we will primarily focus on the tide water to 3 miles up range. Water levels play a critical role in river fishing, and right now the water is low and clear making it perfect for opening weekend. 

Fly Selection: What’s Working on Opening Day?

Spawn Fly Fish has built a reputation for crafting effective patterns that sea run cutthroat can not get enough of. A few great choices for cutthroat on opening day are:

• Steamboat Island Leech – Named after the island where Josh grew up. It features a natural movement in the water and the distinct peach hue that these fish can't resist. Whether fished in shallow water or in the mid-column or even near the bottom, it's a reliable option for the season opener.

• Peach Bum – Designed by Pete, this pattern incorporates rabbit fur and a Spawn Jig Shank to create lifelike movement. It’s perfect for cutthroat that are actively hunting smaller fish in the river.

• Wiggle Leech – Another Pete classic the Wiggle Leech pattern is perfect for early-season cutthroat. Like the other two recommendations it is jig orientation and with a heavy hot spot that they fish just cant say no to!

Techniques 

When fishing for cutthroat in rivers, one of the most effective techniques is casting along the river's edge near structure, particularly in the deeper, slower-moving water where these fish like to hang out. Early season cutthroat tend to stay in slightly deeper areas, and casting near submerged logs or along drop-offs will be the ticket.

Make sure to vary your retrieval speed and let the fly drop into the zone. Slow retrieves often work better early in the season and they may need a more subtle presentation. Don’t be afraid to try dead-drifting your fly as well,  allowing it to flow naturally with the current. When doing this monitor the tip of your fly line if it moves, STRIP SET. You’ll need to match the fly’s action to the behavior of the fish — sometimes they prefer a small, quick twitch to mimic struggling prey. Dance with them!

The opening day of cutthroat fishing in Western Washington rivers isn’t just about the catch — it’s about the experience of reconnecting with nature, fine-tuning your skills, and getting into the spirit of the season. Whether you’re fishing solo or joining up with friends and family, the rivers are waiting.

Spawn Fly Fish is here to help with the gear, the flies, and the advice you need to get started. So, prepare your gear, tie those flies, and head to the water — the season opener is just around the corner.