Lake Cushman has kokanee and coastal cutthroat on the North Fork Skokomish. It began as a natural lake and was enlarged for hydroelectric storage. That means water levels can change enough to affect your boat trip, especially outside the main recreation season.
Lake facts
- Size: 4,015 acres
- Main fish: Kokanee and coastal cutthroat trout
Where to fish
The western shore has public access, though a boat opens more fishing water. Try a small spoon, spinner or fly for cutthroat around reachable depth changes. For kokanee, find a school and troll at its depth rather than repeatedly working the bank. This lake isn't stocked with rainbows, so plan around its kokanee and cutthroat instead.
Fishing tips and rules
Summer is a time to look for kokanee, with later-season cutthroat another option. Check Tacoma Power's current level and the actual ramp before towing. Seasonal drawdown can put launches out of use, and falling water exposes stumps and debris. Take it slowly around unfamiliar shoreline even if you know the lake at a higher level.
Camping and lake access
Use an established recreation access for launching, a picnic or a shore session. Check its opening dates and day-use arrangements before arriving. A walk beside the water or paddle in sheltered conditions can fill the afternoon. Nearby Lake Kokanee and the river are separate waters, so make sure the rules and access information you use are for Cushman.
Nearby fishing waters
Explore nearby waters, including local Featured destinations. Check each page for access and fishing restrictions.
Distances are straight-line estimates between mapped water locations.