Whether you’re exploring WDFW-managed lands on a First Day Hike or fishing for trout in one of the hundreds of lowland lakes, winter offers something for everyone to connect with the outdoors in their own unique and personal way
Winter in Washington is full of outdoor opportunities for every interest and skill level. From waterfowl hunting and razor clam digging on the coast to wildlife viewing and winter steelhead fishing statewide, there’re no shortage of ways to enjoy the outdoors this season. Birders can spot migratory species taking refuge in estuaries and wetlands while hikers and wildlife watchers can experience the quiet beauty of snow-dusted trails and forests.
Whether you’re exploring WDFW-managed lands on a First Day Hike or fishing for trout in one of the hundreds of lowland lakes, winter offers something for everyone to connect with the outdoors in their own unique and personal way. Bundle up, head outside, and make the most of Washington’s wild spaces this season.
Discover more winter highlights in this edition of the Life Outdoors Report, including regional, seasonal activities and places to enjoy Washington’s outdoors. For additional news and stories, explore the WDFW newsroom, check out our Medium blog, or follow along on Instagram, Facebook, X, or Nextdoor. Get updates delivered straight to your inbox by signing up for WDFW mailing lists.
Looking for more frequent updates? Visit our regional webpages to stay informed about fishing, hunting, conservation, and recreation opportunities in your area.
Also read:
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The city of Washougal is inviting farmers, artisans, food vendors, and musicians to apply for the expanded 2026 Washougal Community Market season at Reflection Plaza. - Trophy games: Columbia River boys finish fifth, Evergreen girls take sixth at state tournaments
Columbia River’s boys and Evergreen’s girls both reached the final day of their state basketball tournaments, returning to Vancouver with fifth- and sixth-place trophies. - Opinion: Gov. Ferguson has abandoned his own tax relief demands
Ryan Frost of the Washington Policy Center argues that Gov. Bob Ferguson’s support for the state’s proposed income tax contradicts his earlier demands for broader taxpayer relief. - Debate grows as states consider teacher strike bans
Lawmakers in several states are considering new laws affecting teacher strikes as debates grow over labor rights and disruptions to public education. - WA GOP lawmakers press schools chief on gender identity disclosure policies
Washington House Republicans are asking Superintendent Chris Reykdal to explain state guidance on gender identity disclosure following a recent U.S. Supreme Court ruling. - High school state basketball: Columbia River suffers heartache in overtime loss in semifinals
Columbia River’s run to the Class 2A semifinals ended on a buzzer-beater in overtime, while Evergreen advanced to a trophy game and several other Clark County teams wrapped up their state tournament seasons.
