No fishing license needed this weekend in Washington

Washington’s annual “Free Fishing Weekend’’ is Saturday and Sunday, when anglers do not need a state fishing license.

Sportsmen also will not need a Columbia River Salmon and Steelhead Endorsement, otherwise required to fish for salmon and steelhead in the Columbia and its tributaries.

A two-pole endorsement to fish with two rods in selected waters also will not be required.

No vehicle access pass or Discover Pass will be required at nearly 700 water access sites maintained by the Department of Fish and Wildlife.

“If you haven’t fished in Washington, or want to introduce fishing to someone new to the sport, this is the weekend to get out there,’’ said Steve Thiesfield, inland fish program manager.

Catch-record cards are required to be completed for any salmon, steelhead, halibut or sturgeon caught. The cards are available free at hundreds of sporting goods stores in Washington.