Every Boat Ramp on Yakima River

About Yakima River

The Yakima River is Washington's premier blue-ribbon trout stream, flowing 215 miles through three counties from its headwaters near Snoqualmie Pass through the Kittitas Valley and Yakima Canyon to its confluence with the Columbia River near Richland. The river's upper reaches between Cle Elum and Ellensburg are nationally recognized for catch-and-release wild Rainbow Trout fishing, with populations exceeding 3,000 fish per mile in some sections. The Yakima Canyon section, where the river winds through a dramatic basalt gorge, is considered one of the finest dry-fly fishing destinations in the western United States.

Wild Rainbow Trout averaging 12 to 16 inches are the Yakima River's signature species, with fish responding eagerly to well-presented dry flies, nymphs, and streamers throughout the year. Prolific hatches of caddisflies, mayflies, and stoneflies create outstanding surface-feeding opportunities from spring through fall. Mountain Whitefish provide additional sport on light tackle, particularly during winter months. The lower river supports runs of Chinook Salmon and Steelhead, while Smallmouth Bass have established populations in the warmer lower reaches below the city of Yakima.

Drift boat fishing is the most popular way to experience the Yakima, with numerous put-in and take-out points between Cle Elum and Roza Dam providing float trips ranging from half a day to multiple days. The communities of Ellensburg, Cle Elum, and Yakima offer guide services, fly shops, lodging, and dining for visiting anglers. The river's accessibility from Interstate 90 and its proximity to Seattle — just two hours over Snoqualmie Pass — make it a convenient weekend escape for Puget Sound anglers seeking world-class trout fishing in a spectacular canyon setting.

Nearest towns: Yakima, Ellensburg, Cle Elum