Tacoma Narrows / South Sound
Active Regulations
CLOSED: Upper Green (Duwamish) River closed to fishing from Sept. 16–Oct. 31 — Closes all fishing. Read the WDFW rule →
About Lingcod
Lingcod are aggressive predators found around rocky structure in Puget Sound. They are ambush hunters that can grow to over 40 pounds, though most Puget Sound fish are 5-15 pounds. The fishery has a slot limit (26-36 inches) and a short season, making each lingcod a prized catch.
Regulations
Daily limit 1, slot limit 26-36 inches. Season May 1 - June 15 in most areas. Closed year-round in Area 12 (Hood Canal). Barbless hooks required.
Techniques
- Jigging with large jigs (3-6 oz) near rocky structure
- Drifting with live or cut bait near bottom
- Trolling with large spoons near reefs
Where to Fish
Point Gibson
Extension of the Point Defiance structure — less pressure, same fish
Gear Recommendations
Frequently Asked Questions
When is lingcod season in Puget Sound?
Lingcod season runs May 1 through June 15 in most Puget Sound areas (8-1, 8-2, 9, 10, 11, 13). Hood Canal (Area 12) is closed year-round for lingcod.
What size lingcod can I keep?
You must keep lingcod in the slot of 26-36 inches. Fish smaller or larger than the slot must be released. Daily limit is 1 fish.
Where do I find lingcod in Puget Sound?
Lingcod live on rocky structure. Fish reefs, rock piles, and kelp edges in 40-100 feet. Deception Pass (Area 8-1), Bush Point (Area 9), and the rocky points of Area 11 are productive.