Thanks to Seattle’s lineup of accessible fishing holes, going fishing with the family is surprisingly easy, even for beginners

One of the benefits of raising a family in Seattle is the accessibility to the Sound and, with it, all things water-related. Tidepooling is as simple as heading to a nearby beach on a sunny day, and you can find great spots to go kayaking no matter where you live.

It’s just as easy to go fishing. In fact, it’s especially easy to go fishing with kids because, in Seattle, children can fish without a license* (that makes it easy on the wallet, too!). The only question is: beach, pier, or boat? If you’re ready to get your little ones hooked on this time-honored family outing, check out the most popular kid-friendly fishing spots in the area. An insider tip for beginners: If your pint-sized anglers are completely new to the sport (or you are as well), you might want to opt for one of the local fishing holes that charge a small fee—they usually have experts who’d be happy to show you the ropes. Ready to hook, line, and sinker? Here’s where to bring your family of fishers.

Reverend Murphy Fishing Pier

You’ll enjoy a lovely view from this kid-friendly fishing spot in Seward Park on Lake Washington, especially if the mountain is out. Après fishing, enjoy a stroll through Seward Park, swing on the zip line, play on the playground equipment, or go for a swim at the swimming beach. Don’t forget to bring an extra layer. This fishing spot can get a bit windy.

5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S.
Online: seattle.gov

Jim’s U Fish at Old McDebbie’s Farm

The fish are jumping at Jim’s U Fish. With two freshwater ponds stocked with rainbow trout, the fish here are surprisingly easy to catch—so younger kids think it’s lots of fun. No fishing license is required, and they will clean and bag your fish for a minimal charge ($0.50). Bring your own gear or rent from them ($3/pole). But what about the kids in your family who aren’t interested in fishing? No problem. Enjoy all that Old McDebbie’s 20-plus acre farm has to offer—it’s got exotic animals, pony rides, a petting zoo, playgrounds, and more. Pack your own lunch to enjoy at one of several picnic spots for a full day of fun with the fam.

Insider Tip: No catch-and-release is allowed here. It costs $6 per fish, and expect a $25 fee for each fish thrown back. Also: there’s an admission cost to enjoy the property amenities and go fishing.

4924 268th St. E.
Spanaway, WA
Online: oldmcdebbiesfarm.com

Lincoln Park

Watch ferries crisscross the Sound as you fish from the driftwood-strewn beach at Lincoln Park. Popular with families, Lincoln Park boasts great salmon fishing during the summer months, as well as plenty of other activities (think playgrounds, hiking trails, ballfields, zip lines, and even an outdoor, heated saltwater pool). Enjoy the inclusive and accessible play elements, including a small alcove for sensory sensitive children. But be prepared: Lincoln Park can get quite busy, especially during the bi-annual “pink” salmon run.

8011 Fauntleroy Way S.W.
Online: seattle.gov

Related: 7 Easy Summer Hikes That Are Totally Kid Approved

Belvoir Place

Nestled on the shores of Union Bay, you’ll find Belvoir Place, a 400-foot dock that’s perfect fishing for kids. This hidden gem in Seattle’s Laurelhurst neighborhood is not usually busy, so it’s a calm spot for beginners. Kids can fish for largemouth and smallmouth bass, yellow perch, sablefish, black crappie, and more. Psst… one of the reasons that this spot is among Seattle’s best-kept secrets is probably because it’s quite hard to find—the dock is squeezed between two private houses.

3659 42nd Ave. N. E.
Online: seattle.gov

Angle Lake

Apart from the occasional airliner passing overhead, Angle Lake is a great escape from the city. At this L-shaped, 10-acre urban park, you will find a big fishing pier, sandy beach, and grassy area as well as a playground, picnic area, and swimming beach to pass the time when the fish aren’t biting. During the summer months, silver trout called kokanee are plentiful, but you can also reel in largemouth bass, black crappie, rock bass, yellow perch, and, if you’re lucky, a rainbow trout.

19408 International Blvd.
SeaTac, WA
Online: wdfw.wa.gov

Redondo Beach Pier

Countless children have memories of catching their first fish at Redondo Pier. Kids fishing for salmon, sole, and perch will be in luck at this popular spot south of Seattle. In addition to the large fishing pier, there’s a bait shop at the top. After you’ve gotten your fill, take a stroll along the boardwalk or visit the Marine Science and Technology (MAST) Aquarium for free to see what got away. The aquarium is open to the public on Saturdays from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and is home to over 250 species of sea life with two large touch tanks.

Redondo Beach Dr. & Redondo Way
Des Moines, WA
Online: seattlesouthside.com

Green Lake

For little anglers in North Seattle, Green Lake is stocked full of rainbow and brown trout just waiting to be caught. Kids can also catch channel catfish, carp and pumpkinseed sunfish. With excellent shoreline access and fishing piers, you can drop your line anywhere around the lake and see what will nibble on your line. Of course, Green Lake also offers tons of other activities if the fish are not biting, including a three-mile paved trail, boat rentals, a play area, a wading pool, and lots of tasty nearby eateries and coffeeshops.

5900 W. Green Lake Way N.
Online: seattle.gov

Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park

There’s so much to do at this Lake Washington park, including kid-friendly fishing from the pier. Hang out at the fishing pier or stroller along the paved shoreside walking trails. But don’t worry if you don’t catch any fish, you can always catch a tasty cod ‘n’ chips from Ivars Seafood Bar, located right by the fishing pier or grab a burger from Kidd Valley. No dogs are allowed at Coulon Beach, so leave Fido at home.

1201 Lake Washington Blvd. N.
Renton, WA
Online: rentonwa.gov

Related: From Sea to Shore: Seattle’s Top Tidepooling Beaches

Luther Burbank Park

If you’re looking for a spot in between Bellevue and Seattle, head over to Mercer Island, where the fishing is fine! Drop your line into Lake Washington from the fishing pier at Luther Burbank Park and see if you can catch a black crappie, coastal cutthroat, largemouth bass, crawfish or longnose sucker—all while enjoying the amazing views. The park boasts three-quarters of a mile of waterfront, a swimming beach (no lifeguard on duty), a great play area, and an off-leash dog park for your pooch.

2040 84th Ave. S.E.
Mercer Island, WA
Online: mercerisland.gov

The Old Fishing Hole

The Old Fishing Hole, adjacent to the Green River Trail, is a favorite of young fishers for generations, catering to anglers aged 14 years and younger. The best part? It’s stocked with 1,500 trout every year. So grab yourself a spot on the grassy shore, bait your hook and reel ’em in! While there, take a walk along the loop trail. It’s easyit’s only .25-miles long. Also, check out the “Cedar and Salmon” totem pole carved by artist David Boxley.

Frager Rd. (south of W. Meeker St.)
Kent, WA
Online: mountaineers.org

Related: Stay Cool at Seattle’s Top Splash Spots

Gold Creek Trout Farm

This hatchery can be loads of fishy fun for amateur anglers, but you might find the fish are a little too easy to catch (sometimes they’re practically jumping on to your line). They offer everything you need for a great first-time-fishing experience. The poles, bait, buckets, nets, and helpful staff are all included and no fishing license is required, although outside poles are not allowed. No reservations are needed, and pricing is based on the size of the fish you catch. They will even clean the fish if you like ($0.50 per fish). There’s no catch-and-release here, so plan to bring your fish home.

Insider Tip: Gold Creek Trout Farm is a state-certified food fish supplier, and their ponds are filled with spring water so the fish have a very fresh taste.

15844 148th Ave. N.E.
Woodinville, WA
Online: goldcreektroutfarm.com

Pine Lake Park

The young Eastside anglers’ not-so-secret spot, Pine Lake, is perfect for fishing with kids. The catch rate is highest early in the season, but also consider stopping by in the fall when fish have had all summer to grow and then become active around the lake in the cooler temperatures. Here, you can reel in rainbow trout, largemouth bass, brown bullhead, yellow perch, and pumpkinseed sunfish from the fishing pier. Or bring your boat and try catching a big one out in the lake. There is ample shoreline and a large fishing pier at the public park. There is a boat ramp, but water craft are restricted to car-toppers and float tubes; outboard motors are prohibited.

2401 228th Ave. S.E.
Sammamish, WA
Online: sammamish.us

Edmonds Marina Fishing Pier

With the incredible views of Puget Sound, the ferries coming and going and the seasoned fishers lined up along the railing, the Edmonds Marina Fishing Pier has lots to offer. Kids can watch the masters show them how it’s done and maybe even offer a little advice, if you ask nicely. The dock is walking distance from local shops and restaurants so you can grab a bite once you’ve caught your quota.

Admiral Way & Dayton St.
Edmonds, WA
Online: edmonds-on-puget-sound.com

Related: Places to Host an Outdoor Birthday Party (That Aren’t Parks)

Golden Gardens Park

It would be difficult to find a more beautiful spot to fish than Golden Gardens. Even if the fish aren’t biting, the view of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains is spectacular. Located in Ballard, this park also features two wetlands, a short loop trail and a children’s play area and lots of sandy beaches if you decide to hang up the poles and build a sandcastle instead.

8498 Seaview Pl. N.W.
Online: seattle.gov

*Editor’s Note: As previously stated, children 14 years old and under do not need a fishing license to fish in the state of Washington. However, they do need to keep and fill out a catch record card if they are fishing for salmon, halibut, sturgeon, steelhead, or Puget Sound Dungeness crab. You can register for one online or call the Fish Program Customer Service line at 360-902-2700 for more information. All catch record cards must be returned to the Washington State Department of Fish and Wildlife by the appropriate deadline, even if you didn’t catch anything.

Additional reporting by Abbey McGee, Helen Walker Green & Kristina Moy

Do you remember when you were young and you used to cry to your Mom when you were sick? In all of the ways that make a Mom so special, this is one that is way high up on the list. She has the ability to comfort us in times of need. This whining, I mean crying, to Mom when you were sick probably continued through adolescence and possibly even college.

Personally, I remember having to call my mom at least a couple of times when I was in college. Mom was 90 minutes away or just a phone call away to provide comfort and advice. There’s something about a Mom that makes everything better. She takes your temperature, calls the doctor, gives you meds and a cold bath. She keeps your medication schedule, makes you a bed on the couch and feeds you soup, crackers, and Gatorade. Moms make it all better. 

So, Mommy friends, tell me, what is it like when you are sick? Do you get to lay on the couch, take yourself to the doctor, give yourself a bath, relax and eat soup? Do you even get to put your feet up, read under a warm blanket, feel sorry for your self or even sleep in? While I think self-care is super important, likely you are sick because everyone else in your house is sick, and you (at this time) are the low man on the totem pole. Likely, those carrier monkeys that you call your sons or daughters brought it home from their cesspool and while it caused a cough or fever for them, it extrapolated to the full-on flu for you. Sweet. 

But a sick day for Mom? Likely it looks like trips to the pediatrician followed with $140 spent at CVS. Or your sick day looks like your 1, 2 or 3 kids on their “couch beds” and endless demands of water and Gatorade, “No, I said water MIXED with Gatorade, Mom. Where’s my straw? Do you have more popsicles? I want purple. Now can you put it on the table? I need a tissue. Where’s my blankey? Tuck me in up to my shoulders. No, not like that. I have to poop now.”

Your shirt is definitely a snot rag and everyone hates you for putting a cool washcloth on their head. Do they even notice that you are just as sick too? Of course, not. And you don’t bother telling them because what does it really matter anyway? 

If you are lucky, you are home on your sick day. You take medicine for body aches, forget to take your own temperature, and take a dose of DayQuil, have your coffee and press on. 

You, Mama, are stronger than you know and it is times like this where you prove it loud and clear. Funny though, when you are young, immature and sick, you never once think about how Mom feels. Mom is so selfless taking care of you, it doesn’t even cross your mind how she is doing or if she has caught it from you yet. Or all of the things she isn’t getting done in her life because she is picking up your prescription, getting you a popsicle and washing your sheets and disinfecting all of the toilets in the house.

I admit it, when I was 8 or even 12-years-old, and home sick from school I am sure I was never thinking about how my Mom was feeling. I was too busy, probably feeling bad for myself. Most times really, it is a thankless job. (Thank you for always taking such good care of me, Mom.) But as a Mom, and a wiser person, I now understand that there is nothing else we would rather be doing than sucking it up and just taking care of our sick little children and babies the very best that we possibly can.  While it would be a luxury to lay in bed and have a sick day, we put our boys and girls first.

You go ahead, change your own snotty shirt, spend $80 on their in-haler and keep going. You are a great parent and you are their comfort in life and you are doing an amazing job even if they are forgetting to tell you that right now. 

This post originally appeared on Life, Love & Little Boys.

Located in Bloomington, Indiana I am a wife, full-time working Mom to 3 boys, a part-time graduate student & a writer. I am also an optimist, problem solver, peacemaker, gardener, runner and a crazy-busy mom just trying to enjoy each moment. I truly value my friends, family and my mommy tribe.

Ask any mom what her least favorite part of motherhood is and laundry usually tops the list. Never ending piles of dirty clothes, missing socks and a laundry room that’s usually at the bottom of the totem pole when it comes to decor, all make this household chore less than fun. Laundry is just a fact of life and if you’re struggling with getting it done in a cramped space, YouTuber Hey Tonya has it all figured out. In one of her most recent videos, vlogger Tonya shows us how she transformed her laundry closet (yep, it’s not even big enough to be called a room) into an organizational dream.

If you aren’t already a dollar store shopper, we bet you’ll be one now! Budget is no object when it comes to making your laundry space workable when you shop at a dollar store, and you don’t have to sacrifice style for function either. Whether you own your home, or are restricted from major improvements because you rent like Tonya, your laundry room can still look like a million bucks. We love Tonya’s style from top to bottom: from the crisp white basket choices, to that amazing wall decal and stain removal guide. You may be asking yourself, “How come I never come across stuff like this when I shop at the Dollar Tree?” If there’s one piece of advice we can offer, it’s shop often! You never know what kind of treasures may await.

Check out more of Tonya’s tips on her blog, Hey Tonya.

Are you inspired? Tell us what you plan on organizing next in the comments below! 

— Karly Wood