Moses Lake Fishing, Size, Depth, And More

Moses Lake is nestled in the heart of Grant County in Eastern Washington. It is a popular destination for anglers seeking some of the best freshwater fishing experiences. In this post, we explore Moses Lake, including its size, depth, and the various species of fish found there. Whether you are a seasoned angler or a novice, Moses Lake is sure to provide a fulfilling fishing experience. So, let’s dive in and learn more about this incredible fishing destination!

Size and Depth of Moses Lake

Moses Lake is a lake and reservoir in the U.S. state of Washington. It is located along the course of Crab Creek. The lake covers over 6,800 acres of water. The maximum depth of Moses Lake is 39 feet.

Comparison To Other Lakes in the Area

There are several other lakes in the area around Moses Lake that are worth exploring and comparing to Moses Lake. Here are two examples:

Sun Lakes-Dry Falls State Park: This park features multiple lakes, including Park Lake, which offers a boat launch and social atmosphere. However, it does not seem to be known for its fishing like Moses Lake.

Potholes Reservoir: This large reservoir is often confused with the nearby Pothole Lakes. While it is known for fishing, particularly walleye, it does not have the unique shape and size of Moses Lake.

Common Types of Fish Found in Moses Lake

Some of the common types of fish found in Moses Lake include:

• Bass
• Crappie
• Carp
• Yellow Perch
• Rainbow Trout
• Walleye
• Bluegill
• Lake Whitefish

Best Time of Year to Fish in Moses Lake

Yellow perch can be caught year-round, with the best fishing in the summer after they finish spawning in April-May. Walleye, bass, and other fish species spawn in the spring, making this an ideal time to catch them. Shallow water fishing is best done at times with a low UV index, such as early mornings, late evenings, and in shaded areas.

Check with local fishing guides, shops, or the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife for the most up-to-date and accurate information about fishing conditions and the best times to catch specific fish species in Moses Lake.

Fishing Techniques and Tips for fishing in Moses Lake

• Use light tackle for panfish such as bluegill or yellow perch. A small hook, bobber, and bait such as worms or maggots can be effective.

• For larger game fish such as walleye or bass, try using lures such as jigs, spinnerbaits, or crankbaits. These can be cast and retrieved to imitate baitfish or other prey.

• Fishing early in the morning or late in the evening can be productive. Fish may be more active during these times and seek shallower waters to feed in.

• Look for areas with structure, such as drop-offs, weed lines, or submerged rocks. Fish may be holding or seeking cover in these areas.

• Pay attention to water conditions, such as temperature, clarity, and current, as these can affect fish behavior and feeding patterns.

Check with local fishing guides or the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife for specific Moses Lake fishing tips. They may be able to provide insight into current fishing conditions, bait and lure selection, and other helpful information.

Overview Of Fishing Regulations for Moses Lake

Fishing licenses are required for those aged 15 and older. You can purchase a license online through the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife website or at various retail locations.

Some areas within the lake may be closed to fishing or have specific regulations. It’s important to check the current regulations before fishing. You can find the current fishing regulations for Moses Lake on the Washington Department of Fish & Wildlife website.

Bag and size limits vary depending on the species of fish. Again, it’s important to check current regulations before fishing to ensure you are following the correct limits.

Best Practices for Catch-And-Release Fishing Include:

• Use barbless hooks to minimize injury to fish.
• Handle fish gently and quickly with wet hands or a wet towel to avoid removing their protective slime layer.
• Release fish immediately back into the water.

Additional Tips and Advice

If a fish is deeply hooked, it may be necessary to cut the line rather than trying to remove the hook. Attempting to remove it can cause additional harm to the fish. Avoid playing a fish to exhaustion, as this can decrease their chances of survival after being released.

Fishing regulations can change frequently. Always check the current regulations before fishing in any body of water. Additionally, practice ethical and sustainable fishing practices to protect the health of the fish populations and the aquatic ecosystem as a whole.

Non-Fishing Activities Available at Moses Lake

Here is an overview of non-fishing activities available at Moses Lake:

Potholes State Park: Located near Moses Lake, this park offers a range of outdoor activities. These include camping, hiking, birdwatching, and boating. The park has several campgrounds with sites for tents and RVs, as well as boat launches and rental services.

Nearby Hiking: There are several opportunities for hiking and exploring the outdoors near Moses Lake. For example, the Fremont-Winema National Forest offers hiking trails, campgrounds, and opportunities for boating and fishing at Sunset Campground Lake.

Local Attractions: Moses Lake and Grant County also offer other attractions such as museums, golf courses, water parks, and more. You can find more information about these activities on the Visit Grant County website.

Conclusion

Moses Lake is a beautiful natural resource that provides numerous opportunities for fishing enthusiasts. With a maximum depth of approximately 39 feet, the lake is home to a variety of fish species, including bass, trout, and walleye. There are also several boat launches and access points available for those who wish to fish from a boat. It is important to be aware of the current fishing regulations and best practices for catch-and-release fishing in order to protect the health of the fish populations and the aquatic ecosystem. Visitors can also explore other non-fishing activities available in the area, such as hiking, camping, and boating.