⚓ The Washington Launch Finder

Listen up, landlubbers! If you're tired of haulin' your rig halfway across the state just to find a locked gate, you've come to the right place. We've mapped the proven fishing drops from Neah Bay to the Snake. Use the filters in the legend to find exactly where your permit works.

Important Data Accuracy Disclaimer
The data presented on this map, including location coordinates, facility details, and permit requirements, is compiled from various public sources, including the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW), local Port Authorities, and Municipal/County departments.
While we strive to maintain the highest level of accuracy, information is subject to change at any time due to weather conditions, facility maintenance, seasonal closures, or policy changes. Before heading out, we strongly advise you to contact the managing agency or the facility directly to verify operating hours, current status, and required permit/pass information. Your safety and compliance are your responsibility.

Your Ultimate Guide to Washington Boat Launches: The Finder that Saves Your Day (and Fuel)

Searching for the perfect boat launch in Washington State can often feel like a quest in itself—a frustrating mix of finding outdated coordinates, confusing permit rules, and discovering ramps that are simply not suited for your rig. Fortunately, the days of guesswork are over. The comprehensive, interactive map at fishingwa.org/washington-boat-launches/ is the essential tool every angler needs before their next trip.

Built to map nearly 1,000 water access points from the Pacific Coast to the Snake River, this map simplifies your pre-trip planning. It is no longer just a list; it is a dynamic resource engineered to give you clarity on permits, launch type, and location, all in one glance.

Decode the Map: Color-Coded Access and Filters

Washington Boat Launch Site The core power of the Washington Launch Finder lies in its intuitive, color-coded marker system. By a glance at the map, you can immediately identify the permit and agency required for any site:

Green Pins (WDFW Access): These sites are managed by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. They are typically covered by the WDFW Vehicle Access Pass or the Discover Pass. These are your reliable, primary fishing access points across the state.
Blue Pins (Discover Pass Required): These locations are generally managed by Washington State Parks, DNR (Department of Natural Resources), or other state agencies. They require a current Discover Pass for vehicle parking and access.
Grey Pins (Public / Local Access): This category includes ramps and access points managed by local entities like Cities, Ports, Metro Parks, and Counties. Permit rules vary greatly, but they often require local fees or city permits.
Orange Pins (Hand Launch Only): This is a critical new feature for anglers with small craft. An orange marker signals that the location is restricted to Hand Launch, Kayak, or Canoe use. If you are towing a trailer with a powerboat, avoid these spots!

You can quickly narrow down your search using the interactive filters located in the map legend. Check the box for “WDFW Access” to plan your trip around your WDFW Pass, or check “Hand Launch Only” to see every kayak-friendly drop-in.

How to Use the Map to Find Your Next Catch

The map's simple interface is designed to maximize your time on the water, not on the internet.

Identify Your Target: Start by finding your fishing location. Are you targeting the Puget Sound Fishery? Or perhaps the cold waters of Lake Chelan Fishing Guide?
Filter by Permit: If you only have a Discover Pass, uncheck the WDFW (Green) and Public (Grey) boxes to see only the blue pins that work for you.
Click for Details: Click any pin on the map to reveal a pop-up window showing the full site name, the water body name, and the exact managing agency.
Get Directions Instantly: Clicking the “Directions (View on Google Maps)” button on the site’s detail page immediately opens your preferred map application and begins generating directions from your current location right to the launch site.

The Fisherman’s Advantage: Saving Time, Fuel, and Frustration

This map is more than just coordinates; it is an invaluable utility for every fisherman in Washington:

Permit Certainty: Instantly eliminate doubt about whether your pass is valid, helping you avoid fines and wasted trips.
Launch Confidence: The new Hand Launch flag prevents trailer wear and tear by ensuring you never haul a heavy boat to a small-craft-only access point.
Data Reliability: The map is kept accurate through direct synchronization with the WDFW's data and is supplemented by manually verified posts, ensuring you rely on the best available public information before you purchase a license from the WDFW Fishing Regulations page.

In an effort to provide the most accurate resource, FishingWA integrates data directly from official sources. We encourage all users to treat the map as a planning tool and verify local conditions and operating hours before leaving the dock.

Ready to launch? Head over to the Washington Boat Launches map now and make your next fishing trip a success.