Top Fishing Spots in Olympia & Beyond

Discover local fishing spots around Thurston County, whether it’s a freshwater pond or a saltwater marsh.

Thurston County boasts a wide range of water activities for all ages and levels. Along with kayaking and swimming, our local waters provide an abundance of fishing opportunities. Angle your rod for an array of trout, perch, and more at lakeside parks and boat ramps in Olympia, Lacey, and Yelm.

Plan before you go: Washington state-managed recreation lands typically require a Discover Pass for entry. Visitors will also need a fishing license, which can be purchased online on the official website of the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife.

Columbus Park

This idyllic private park overlooks the tranquil waters of Black Lake, setting a peaceful scene for fishing. With picnic sites, a playground, a verdant beach area, volleyball pits, and a boat ramp, there’s something for everyone at Columbus Park. Cast your rod for trout, bluegill, bass, and more. Admission starts at $4 for walk-in visits. | Location: 5700 Black Lake Blvd SW #62, Olympia

Lake Lois Park

Lake Lois Park is a quaint escape into the lush wilderness of the Lacey area. Onsite amenities include picnic tables, a barbecue grill, and paved parking spots. Rainbow trout is most commonly found at this lake. You may even see Bald Eagles, herons, and waterfowl! | Location: 6020 7th Ave SE, Lacey

Long Lake Park

Breathe in the fresh air while fishing for Largemouth bass, Yellow perch, and Rainbow trout. Visitors are allowed to fish at the Long Lake Boat Launch. Why not combine your fishing experience with a hiking activity? Adventurous explorers will enjoy a scenic trail through the wooded terrain of Long Lake Park. | Location: 2900 Boat Launch St SE, Lacey

A girl and a boy sit on the edge of a path overlooking Long Lake Park.

Millersylvania State Park

With more than 3,000 feet of freshwater shoreline on Deep Lake, Millersvania State Park is a fisher’s paradise. Practice your angling skills as the towering trees of an old-growth forest are reflected off the water. Carve out time for biking, boating, camping, or bird watching. For admission, visitors will need to purchase a Discover Pass, which costs $10 for one visit, or $30 for an annual membership. | Location: 12245 Tilley Rd SW, Olympia

Trees are reflected off the waters of Millersylvania State Park.

Tolmie State Park

Tolmie State Park feels like a hidden oasis, where the saltwater marsh reaches toward the sweeping horizon. Native wildlife and an array of fishing opportunities abound. Prepare to angle your rod for various saltwater species—shellfish and crabs are also common dwellers. A Discover Pass is required for entry to this park. | Location: 7730 61st Ave NE, Olympia

Wanschers Community Park

Spanning 16 acres, Wanschers Community Park offers bankside fishing in a charming picnic setting. This wooded lakeside spot offers stunning views of Mt. Rainier and leisurely walking trails. Wanschers Community Park is typically open for fishing from the spring to fall months. | Location: 2606 Hicks Lake Rd SE, Lacey

Clouds and trees are mirrored off the calm waters of Wanschers Community Park.

Woodland Creek Community Park

Home to Long Pond, Woodland Creek Community Park is open for year-round fishing. Although fishing licenses are not required, anglers must either be under 15 or over 70 years of age. Anglers with a disability carrying a harvester companion card are also permitted to fish at Long Pond. | Location: 6729 Pacific Ave SE, Lacey

Offutt Lake

The WDFW (Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife) Boat Ramp at Offutt Lake is brimming with fish varieties like Yellow perch, Coastal cutthroat trout, Rainbow trout, Largemouth bass, and Brown bullhead. Don’t forget to bring a Discover Pass or Vehicle Access Pass before stepping on WDFW lands. If you’re planning an all-day fishing trip, we suggest satiating your appetite before or after angling at the Lady of the Lake Public House—a lakeside casual restaurant offering comforting bites. | Location: W5C9+2F Offutt Lake

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Permits & Passes

Don’t wind up with an unpleasant surprise — make sure you have the right permit or pass when accessing public lands. Many Washington State and federally managed public lands will require that you purchase and display the correct permit or pass during your visit.

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