South Puget Sound / Olympia
Active Regulations
RESTRICTION: WDFW classifies invasive golden mussels as prohibited statewide
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
Gear Recommendations
Recent Lingcod Catches
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.