North Dam is the most accessible launch point on Moses Lake, with year-round fishing for walleye, bass, and pike

Moses Lake's North Dam sits on the eastern edge of the lake near the town of Moses Lake, Washington, and it is the easiest place to get a boat in the water if you are coming from Interstate 90. The dam creates a distinct fishing zone where current and structure concentrate fish, especially walleye and pike. The area holds fish in every season, though spring and fall tend to be most productive for larger walleye.

The North Dam area differs from the open lake in one important way: the current flowing through the dam's spillway creates a natural feeding zone. Fish stage here to intercept food moving downstream, which means you do not have to cover as much water to find them. This makes it a good choice if you are new to Moses Lake or fishing from a smaller boat.

Key Takeaways

  • North Dam has a public boat launch with parking and restroom facilities, located just off Highway 17 on the east side of Moses Lake.
  • Walleye fishing peaks in spring (March through May) and fall (September through October), with fish holding near the dam structure and deeper channels.
  • Pike are present year-round but most aggressive in spring and early summer when they move into shallower water to spawn.
  • The spillway current creates a natural feeding zone where fish concentrate, so focus your effort near the dam rather than roaming the open lake.
  • A Washington fishing license is required; check current regulations for daily limits and seasonal restrictions before you fish.

Getting to North Dam and launching your boat

The North Dam public launch is located on Highway 17, roughly three miles north of the town of Moses Lake. From Interstate 90, take Exit 179 and head north on Highway 17; the launch entrance is marked and sits on your right. The facility includes a two-lane concrete ramp, a loading dock for smaller boats, and a gravel parking lot with space for vehicles and trailers.

The launch is open year-round and maintained by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. There is no launch fee. Restroom facilities are available, though they close seasonally in winter months. The parking area can fill on weekends during spring and fall, so arriving early is worth the effort if you are fishing a Saturday or Sunday.

Walleye fishing near the dam structure

Walleye are the primary target at North Dam, and they respond to the current and structure the dam creates. In spring, walleye move into shallower water (8 to 15 feet) as the lake warms, and they hold near the dam's face and the rocky structure on both sides of the spillway. Jigging with live minnows or soft plastics in white, chartreuse, or natural colors works well during this period. Fish early morning and late evening when light is low.

By summer, walleye move deeper and spread across the lake, making them harder to find near the dam. Fall brings them back as water cools; September and October are excellent months to fish the dam structure again. Winter walleye fishing is possible but slower; if you fish in cold months, focus on the deepest holes adjacent to the dam where fish conserve energy.

Trolling crankbaits along the dam face and the drop-offs on either side is also effective, especially in spring. Work depths from 10 to 20 feet and adjust your speed based on water temperature—slower in cold water, faster as the lake warms.

Pike and bass in the dam area

Northern pike are abundant at Moses Lake and particularly active near North Dam in spring and early summer. Pike spawn in shallow, weedy areas, and the dam's structure and current attract them as they move through the lake. Throw large topwater lures, swimbaits, or soft plastics in bright colors (orange, chartreuse, white) to trigger strikes. Pike fishing is often best in the hour after sunrise and before sunset.

Largemouth and smallmouth bass also inhabit the dam area, though they are secondary targets compared to walleye and pike. Bass respond to the same structure—rocky areas, drop-offs, and current breaks near the spillway. In spring and early summer, fish shallow water with crankbaits or soft plastics. As water warms, move to deeper structure and slower presentations.

Water conditions and seasonal timing

Moses Lake's water level fluctuates based on irrigation demand and snowmelt. Spring runoff (April through June) raises the lake level and increases current through the dam, which can make fishing more challenging but also concentrates fish. Summer drawdown lowers the lake level as water is diverted for agricultural use, which can expose new structure but also spreads fish across a larger area.

Fall is when the lake is most stable and fish are most predictable. Water temperature drops, walleye move back to the dam structure, and pike are still active. Winter fishing is possible but requires patience; the dam area remains fishable, but fish are less aggressive and bite windows are shorter.

Regulations and licensing

You must have a valid Washington fishing license to fish Moses Lake. Licenses are sold online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife website, at sporting goods stores, and at some gas stations. A one-day license is available if you do not want to commit to a full year.

Daily catch limits and size restrictions vary by species and change year to year. Walleye typically have a daily limit of five fish with a minimum size of 15 inches, but check the current regulations before you fish. Pike and bass limits also vary. The WDFW website publishes a current fishing guide for the Moses Lake area; download it or call the regional office to confirm the rules in effect when you plan to fish.

What to bring and how to prepare

Bring a depth finder if you have one; it will help you locate the drop-offs and structure near the dam where fish hold. A GPS unit or smartphone with offline maps is useful for marking productive spots and returning to them on future trips. Polarized sunglasses reduce glare and help you spot fish and structure in shallow water.

Check the weather forecast before you go. The dam area is exposed, and wind can make the water rough and fishing difficult. Spring and fall winds are common; plan your trip for calmer mornings if possible. Bring extra layers; water temperature at Moses Lake can be cold even in spring, and wind chill makes it colder still.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time of year to fish North Dam?

Spring (March through May) and fall (September through October) are most productive. Walleye move into shallower water and concentrate near the dam structure during these seasons. Summer fishing is slower because fish spread across the lake as water warms. Winter is possible but requires patience and slower presentations.

Can I fish from shore at North Dam?

The dam itself is not open to public fishing, but the shoreline near the launch has some access. Most anglers fish from boats because the boat allows you to reach the structure and current where fish concentrate. Shore fishing is limited and less productive than boat fishing at this location.

Do I need a boat to fish North Dam?

A boat is not required, but it is strongly recommended. The most productive water is 50 to 200 yards from shore, near the dam structure and the spillway current. A small boat, canoe, or kayak will give you access to these areas and significantly improve your chances of catching fish.

What size lures and baits work best at North Dam?

For walleye, use live minnows (2 to 4 inches) or soft plastics (3 to 5 inches) in natural or bright colors. For pike, use larger swimbaits or topwater lures (4 to 6 inches) in orange, chartreuse, or white. Match your lure size to the forage fish in the lake—smaller presentations often work better in spring when fish are less aggressive.

Is there a fee to launch at North Dam?

No, the North Dam public launch is free and open to anyone with a valid Washington fishing license. Parking is available in the gravel lot, and restroom facilities are on site, though they close seasonally in winter months.