Battleground Lake in southwestern Washington is actually the crater from a volcano that erupted years ago. Now, the crater is filled with water and provides locals in Clark County a place to fish for trout and other freshwater fishing species. The lake is part of Battleground State Park, which offers on-site lodging and other recreational activities. The lake is just north of Vancouver, Washington, and is actually considered part of the Portland, Oregon metropolitan area and the Cascade Mountain range.
Species of Fish
Like many lakes in the state of Washington, Battleground Lake is filled with different species of trout. The two most popular catches, according to the state's fish and wildlife website, are eastern brook trout and rainbow trout. Battleground Lake is also known for producing several warm-water species of fish, with perch and bluegill being to two of the more popular catches.
Fish This Lake
In Washington freshwater areas, including Battleground Lake, hook and line fishing is the only type of fishing allowed. Also, the use of chum (which some fishermen use to attract fish to their area) is prohibited. You may use live bait, but according to information provided by the U.S. Geological Survey's web page on Battleground Lake, you may be better off using a dry damsel fly lure. The site says locals report the dry damsel is good at luring trout. Also, locals report that areas with downed trees are good areas to find fish. If you're fishing from a boat, make sure you're not using a gas motor. Not only will it scare off fish, but also it's against the law. Locals report that canoes, row boats, rafts, and boats that use small electric trolling motors get a lot of use on the lake.
Where Battleground Lake Gets Its Fish
Because Battleground Lake was formed by a volcano, it is not fed by a major river or stream like many other Washington lakes. Therefore, the lake relies on the state of Washington's fisheries and hatcheries program for its fish each year. The state stocks more than 100 state lakes with triploid trout, a form of rainbow trout, which can grow to trophy-size catches within a year, granted they're not caught during their first year in the lake. Battleground Lake receives a share of this stock, including 256 trout that are already 14 inches or longer. It is one of only two lakes in Clark County that receives stock from the state. The other is Klineline Pond. The lakes are stocked in April or May each year, just before the start of the statewide freshwater fishing season.
Licensing and Regulations
Fishing on all lakes in the state of Washington is by permit only. At Battleground Lake, the state's rule for minimum size for its most prevalent species-trout-apply. On lakes like Battleground, there is no minimum size limit. The daily limit for trout is five. But a fisherman may retain just two trout that measure more than 20 inches in length. Also, the use of internal combustion motors on the lake is against state law.
The Park
If you're planning on spending a few days at Battleground Lake, you should consider staying in the state park, which has a variety of lodging options. The park can accommodate tents and recreational vehicles, but the park also offers reasonably priced yurts and cabins for those who want to stay out of the elements. The cabins are close to the lake and feature a covered porch, indoor heating and locks for safety. They don't have bathrooms or showers, but both are nearby. Cooking can be done on the grill nearby. Cabins can sleep up to five, and prices go down after the high season ends in mid-September.
Tags: Battleground Lake, state Washington, Clark County, each year, filled with, freshwater fishing, Lake Washington
