The main rivers most anglers will be fishing during the Washington DIY Event are the Upper Yakima and Cle Elum Rivers. These rivers are known for their clear, spring-fed waters, scenic mountain surroundings, and excellent DIY walk-and-wade access, making them ideal for anglers of all skill levels.
The Upper Yakima River features steady flows, deep pools, and riffles that hold rainbow and brown trout, while the Cle Elum River is prized for its smaller size, challenging runs, and abundant wild trout. Both rivers offer a mix of dry fly, nymphing, and streamer opportunities, with hatches typically peaking in spring and summer. With a combination of public access points, nearby guides, and rich local knowledge, these rivers provide a rewarding and immersive fishing experience for DIY anglers.
DIY Fishing
These events require advance preparation and proactive engagement. Please note that our DIY Fishing events are truly do-it-yourself. Each angler is responsible for their own planning and preparation before arrival. While iFishiBelong and our event co-hosts provide helpful resources, links, and key information, it is the registrant’s responsibility to carefully review all emails and thoroughly explore the event website.
The more prepared you are, the better your experience will be. Familiarizing yourself with the area, understanding the logistics, and reviewing all provided materials in advance will help ensure a smooth, enjoyable, and successful event.
Live Q&A Session
Our goal is to equip each participant with knowledge of the area, how to fish it, and suggested fishing locations. Shared through the event webpages and reinforced during the Live Q&A session.
Please mark your calendars for the Live Q&A Session on May 13th, 2026, at 6 pm PT. Register HERE.
Fishing License
All anglers over 16 years old must purchase a fishing license. Purchase HERE.
Fish Species
These are the fish species that you might encounter while fishing the Upper Yakima and Cle Elum Rivers.
WIld Westslope Cutthroat Trout
Wild Rainbow Trout
Mountain Whitefish
DIY Fishing Blogs
Need to Borrow Equipment?
Each angler is expected to bring their own equipment and flies. We have rod/reel setups, boots and waders available for borrowing on a first-come, first-served basis. Please fill out the “Borrowed Equipment” form by June 19th, 2026 if you wish to borrow equipment.
Hire a Guide
We recognize that not everyone wants to DIY Fish and may prefer the expertise of a fishing guide. In our commitment to showcasing local businesses and guides, we’re pleased to provide a list of area guides who have registered on the Fish and Hang website, demonstrating their support and alignment with the iFishiBelong mission.
Local Fly Shops
Fishing Location Maps
Click HERE to view the Fishing the Yakima River: A Guide for Anglers
The Upper Yakima and Cle Elum rivers offer great fly fishing, but safety should be a priority. Both rivers are influenced by irrigation releases and seasonal flows, meaning water levels can change rapidly, especially in spring and summer, and strong currents can make wading unsafe at higher flows (generally above ~1,000 CFS on the Yakima).
The Upper Yakima in particular has braided channels, logjams, overhanging trees, and rocky terrain, which can create trip hazards and unpredictable currents; some stretches are difficult or dangerous to float and hard to wade safely without experience.
Always check current river conditions before heading out, know your limits, and consider fishing from shore or with a guide when flows are high or unfamiliar.
- Slippery rocks and uneven footing, use a wading staff.
- Fast, deep water in sections; use a wading staff.
Clothing
Anglers on the Yakima River should be prepared for rapidly shifting weather and water conditions. In the summer months, wet-wading can be enjoyable when flows and temperatures allow, but sturdy rubber or felt-soled boots equipped with studs are important for safe footing on the river’s slick rocks. Even in warm weather, wearing waders provides valuable protection from brushy banks, ticks, and unexpected cold-water exposure.
Because the Yakima’s conditions can change quickly, dressing in layers is prudent. Pack or wear base layers, along with a waterproof or breathable rain jacket, so you can adjust as temperatures shift. Having a combination of sun-protective clothing, waders or wet-wading gear, and reliable boots helps ensure safety, comfort, and an enjoyable day on the water.
Always bring a rain jacket!!
- Fly Rods – 4wt – 6wt.
- Rod Length – Average 9’.
- Fly Lines – Typical Floating Fly Lines
- Leader – 9’ 3x – 5x
- Tippet Spools – 3x – 6x
Fly Suggestions
Click HERE for further descriptions.
- Dry Flies:
- Caddis Patterns size 12-18 i.e. Elk Hair Caddis, X-Caddis, Cutter’s Caddis
- Bigger Mayfly Patterns size 12-16 i.e. Parachute Adams, Quigley Cripple, Green Drake size 10-12, Pale Morning Duns size 16
- Stonefly Patterns size 4-12 i.e. Chubby Chernobyl in yellow, gold, orange, brown colors, Orange Stimulator, Yellow Stimulator, Sofa Pillow, Gypsy King ,Yellow Sallies size 14-16
- Terrestrials Patterns size 12-16 i.e Flying Ants, Beetles, and Grasshoppers
- Nymph Flies:
- Caddis Pupa size 14-18 i.e. Birds Nest, Blooms Soft Hackle, Caddis Sparkle Pupa, Sexy Walts
- Mayfly Nymphs size 12-18 i.e. BH Pheasant Tail, Anato May, Lightning Bug, Tungsten Jig PMD Yellow Spot by Solitude
- Stonefly Nymphs size 8-12 i.e Pat’s Rubber Legs, Twenty Incher, Mercer’s Stubby Stone
- Midge Nymphs size 18-22 i.e. Black Beauty, Zebra Midge red and black
- Attractor Nymphs i.e BH Prince size 12-16, San Juan Worm size 12-16, Copper John size 12-18, BH Gold ribbed Hare’s Ear size 12-16
- Streamer Flies:
- Sculpzilla in Olive or Black, Sheila Sculpin, Rolled Muddler, Skiddish Smolt, Dali Llama, Wooly Buggers in Black, Olive, & Brown
Area Hatch Chart
Leader Examples
Coming Soon
