Henderson’s Hidden Spring Fishing Hideaway Exposed

Fishermen are a funny bunch.

Some of us have lots of tips and advice to give, but not much fish in the end to justify such talk much less advice giving. Others catch their limit every day, say nothing and go home.

I probably resemble the first group more than the second, but some of that is an occupational hazard. I talk a lot.

For those of us that don't mind the early spring weather in the rush to fish, this is a particularly good time of year. Lots of state lakes are stocked by WDFW, so if you're like me and love fishing for trout on a fly, this is an epic time to go.

I literally catch a fish every cast at the spot I am about to tell you about.

This is a well known gem for Tri-Cities residents, though merely a few brave souls venture to the Blue Mountains to enjoy it this time of year. It's still cold and wet, after all.

Actually, when I discovered this place 12 years ago hardly that many folks went there at all. Now during the warmer months it is SWARMING with people from the Tri-Shitties.

Anyway - the super not-so-secret spot that I am talking about is a little spot along the Tucannon River near Dayton and Pomeroy. There are a series of man-made lakes that get stocked year after year near the Camp Wooten area. Yes, we are talking about heading east to the Blues instead of the quick drive west to the Cascades.

If you go searching for info, the FIRST place to start is the Blue Mountains KOA campground and LAST RESORT store. They can get you supplied with ice, etc. once you're there, but also on any weather or other important info you may need to know before heading out.

The main reason I still go to the area most call "Tucannon" even though more people go there every year is that the weekends they stock the lakes is a TON OF FUN for the kids.

My girls get bored if they can't catch a fish every cast and this is one of those few moments I know I can make it happen for them.

So far in 2017, the lakes have been stock with very little pressure since most of them didn't open until Wednesday, March 1st.

So far, here is what has been stocked as posted to the WDFW website:

https://www.facebook.com/bluemountainskoa/

Literally THOUSANDS of fish for the taking this spring.

There isn't any cellular service or food other than the KOA store without driving the 45 minutes or more back to Dayton, so keep that in mind before you go as well. In fact, there is only ONE grocery store in Dayton, so supply up before you get there.

To find out how to get there search for the Camp Wooten area. I would provide directions, but it can be kind of confusing. The best way is to go to Dayton and take the Patit Road route, but do not rely on cellular map apps past that point. Plan before you leave.