Season: Jan – Late-Dec | Lake Size: 2,931 acres
Fishing at Alder Lake is a fun and exciting pastime for anglers of all ages. This large Nisqually River reservoir five miles south of Eatonville covers parts of Pierce (1690 acres), Thurston (1117 acres), and Lewis (124 acres) counties. Year-round open fishing season. Available species include rainbow and cutthroat trout, kokanee, largemouth bass, yellow perch, black crappie, and bullhead catfish. The kokanee fishery is expected to be good this year. (See kokanee fishing hotspots.) Try flashers and a wedding ring-type lure with bait for terminal gear. There are several boat ramps and good bank access. Disabled accessibility at Tacoma Power’s park – Level 1; WCT, Blk Tpa, dp, docks, mooring.
Anglers can now enjoy fishing the Little Nisqually arm of Alder Lake and avoid boat traffic at the same time. As a part of Tacoma Power’s wildlife management plan, no-wake zones have been established in Alder Lake to decrease the rate of erosion, protect nesting waterfowl and minimize disturbance of the excellent fishing opportunities in Alder Lake.
Alder Lake is located on State Highway 7. From Tacoma, take Interstate 5 south to State Route 512. Travel east on SR 512 about 2 miles to the Pacific Avenue exit (SR 7). Go south on SR 7 about 27 miles, turn right on to School Road and follow the signs to the park.
To learn more about fishing at the Alder Lake Recreational Area click here.