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Fishing Close to Home: Your Local Guide to Fishing in Western Washington

Guy DuVall fishing on a boat in Western Washington waters, smiling beside his rod and reel during a local Pacific Northwest fishing trip.

Where to Cast a Line in Thurston and Pierce County Without Driving Half the State

If you’ve lived in Western Washington for more than five minutes, you know one thing. We are surrounded by water. Lakes, rivers, inlets, ponds. You almost have to try not to trip over a fishing spot around here.

And the best part? You do not need to drive across the Cascades to find a good place to cast a line.

Some of my favorite days have been spent fishing right here in Thurston and Pierce County. No big production. No epic expedition. Just a rod, a thermos of coffee, and a little patience. Sometimes you come home with fish. Sometimes you just come home with a clearer head. Both are wins in my book.

Let’s talk about where locals actually fish and what you should know before you drop that line in.

🎣 Lake St. Clair – A Personal Favorite Near Olympia

If you ask me for one of my go to spots, Lake St. Clair is always high on the list.

This lake has treated me well over the years, especially for trout and largemouth bass. It’s close to Olympia, easy to access, and has that classic Pacific Northwest feel.

Before heading out, you can check regulations and lake details through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife here:
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/locations

If you are looking for fishing near Olympia WA that feels local and dependable, this is a great place to start.

🎣 Black Lake and Long Lake – Lacey Area Staples

Black Lake and Long Lake are two Thurston County favorites that plenty of locals rotate through.

Both lakes offer public access and are stocked with rainbow trout along with bass and perch. You can check current stocking reports directly through WDFW here:
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/reports/stocking

If you live in Lacey or Olympia, you are practically fishing in your backyard.

🎣 American Lake – Always a Great Catch

American Lake in Lakewood is always a great catch as well. See what I did there.

This Pierce County lake is known for trout, kokanee, bass, and perch. It has multiple public access points and boat launches.

For lake access details and species information, visit:
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/locations

If you are searching for fishing in Pierce County Washington, American Lake earns its reputation.

🎣 Spanaway Lake and Ohop Lake – Quiet Pierce County Options

Spanaway Lake offers shoreline access through Spanaway Park and is a comfortable place to fish for bass and trout.

Ohop Lake near Eatonville is another peaceful option if you are looking to avoid heavier traffic.

Always double check local regulations before heading out:
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations

🌊 What You Can Expect to Catch Around Here

Depending on where and when you go in Western Washington, you might hook into:

  • Rainbow trout
  • Kokanee
  • Cutthroat trout
  • Largemouth and smallmouth bass
  • Yellow perch
  • Crappie
  • Salmon during select river runs

Seasonal rules and limits apply, so check the Fish Washington mobile app for real time updates:
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/regulations/app

🧠 Fish Smart, Not Just Hard

Before you head out:

✔️ Purchase your Washington fishing license here:
https://fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov

✔️ Check water access sites and maps here:
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/locations

✔️ Respect private property and posted areas

✔️ Clean, drain, and dry your gear to protect our lakes and rivers

Fishing responsibly protects the waters we all enjoy.

Local Tip from a Neighbor

Some of the best moments in Olympia happen when you lean into the season instead of fighting it. Winter is the perfect excuse to revisit favorite spots or finally try a new one by the water.

Have a favorite cozy waterfront restaurant in Olympia that belongs on this list? Share it with me. I am always looking to try new local favorites and add them to the blog.

More local guides coming soon.

🧡 For more hyperlocal resources, community guides, and neighborhood support, visit guyduvall.com

Thinking about relocating closer to the water? Let’s talk about neighborhoods near your favorite lake.

Contact

For more local guides and real estate insights, visit guyduvall.com and check out my blog.

Guy DuVall

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    Where to Get Help or Give Back: Food Banks in Thurston & Pierce County

    Where to Get Help or Give Back: Food Banks in Thurston & Pierce County

    Community‑Driven Food Support from DuPont to Tumwater

    When times get tough, our community shows up. With the government shutdown impacting SNAP benefits and food prices still high, more families than ever are facing food insecurity. If you or someone you know is struggling to put food on the table, there are local food banks ready to help. And if you’re looking for ways to give back, these organizations could use your support through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word.

    If you need a hand putting food on the table, or you’re in a place to help someone else, this guide is for you. Below you’ll find trusted local food banks, donation drop-offs, and volunteer opportunities that keep our community going.

    Where to Get Food Assistance

    These local food banks are ready to help with groceries, produce, pantry items, and more. No one should go hungry in our community.

    Thurston County Food Banks

    Thurston County Food Bank – Olympia
    📍 220 Thurston Ave NE, Olympia, WA 98501
    🕒 Open Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM
    Drive-through or walk-up. No appointment necessary.
    🔗 https://www.tcfb.org/services/food-services/pantries-satellites/

    Thurston County Food Bank – Lacey Pantry
    📍 7027 Martin Way E, Olympia, WA 98516
    🕒 Tuesday & Thursday 10:00 AM–2:00 PM | Second Wednesday monthly 4:00 PM–6:00 PM
    🔗 https://www.tcfb.org/services/food-services/pantries-satellites/

    Thurston County Food Bank – Tumwater Satellite
    📍 1401 Lake Park Dr SW, Tumwater, WA 98512
    🕒 Third Wednesday of each month, 5:00 PM–7:00 PM
    🔗 https://www.tcfb.org/services/food-services/pantries-satellites/

    Yelm Community Services Food Bank
    📍 624 Crystal Springs St NW, Yelm, WA 98597
    🕒 Thursdays 9:30 AM–12:15 PM
    Serves Yelm, Rainier School District, Nisqually Tribal Reservation
    🔗 https://www.yelmcommunityservices.com/food-bank

    Tenino Food Bank Plus
    📍 224 Sussex E, Tenino, WA 98589
    🕒 Tuesdays 9:00 AM–Noon
    🔗 http://yelmcommunityservices.com/

    Pierce County Food Banks

    Nourish Pierce County
    Multiple locations throughout Pierce County including DuPont area.
    🕒 Weekly mobile food banks and pantries
    🔗 https://nourishpc.org/

    Emergency Food Network (EFN)
    📍 3318 92nd St S, Lakewood, WA 98499
    🕒 Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–4:00 PM (admin and warehouse)
    Partners with local food banks throughout the county
    🔗 https://www.efoodnet.org

    Orting Food Bank
    📍 224 Washington Ave S, Orting, WA 98360
    🕒 Monday 3:00 PM–6:00 PM, Wednesday 12:00 PM–3:00 PM, Friday 9:00 AM–12:00 PM
    🔗 https://www.ortingfoodbank.org/

    Gig Harbor Peninsula FISH Food Bank
    📍 4425 Burnham Dr, Gig Harbor, WA 98332
    🕒 Mon & Fri 9:30 AM–3:30 PM, Wed & Thu 9:30 AM–6:00 PM
    🔗 https://www.ghpfish.org

    JBLM, Veterans, and Military Families

    Armed Services YMCA – Food Pantry at JBLM (coming soon..)
    📍 5325 Boxer Rd, JBLM, WA 98433
    🕒 Tuesday–Friday 9:00 AM–2:00 PM
    Available for active-duty, reservists, and military families
    🔗 https://pacificnw.asymca.org/services/food-assistance/

    Operation Homefront – Critical Financial Assistance
    Emergency food support and grocery programs for veterans and military families
    🔗 https://operationhomefront.org

    Lewis-McChord Warrior Food Pantry
    In partnership with local churches and support programs for military families in need
    Contact chaplain services for access or visit your Family Readiness Group

    Eloise’s Cooking Pot Food Bank
    Provides quality food to the communities of East and South Tacoma, Washington.  🔗https://themadf.org/eloises-cooking-pot/

    Support local families. Show up for your neighbors. Here’s how we come together in challenging times.

    Want to Help? Here’s How

    If you’re in a position to lend a hand, here are a few ways you can get involved:

    Donate Food or Essentials
    Most food banks accept non-perishable goods, canned foods, hygiene items, diapers, and pet food. Reach out to your local food bank to find out their current needs.

    Volunteer Your Time
    Volunteers are the heart of every food bank. Help pack bags, distribute food, or assist with mobile pantries. Opportunities are available in Olympia, Lacey, Yelm, Tenino, Tumwater, DuPont, Orting, and more.

    Host a Food Drive
    Get your neighborhood, workplace, or church involved. Many organizations offer toolkits or drop-off bins to make organizing easy.

    Make a Monetary Donation
    Your dollar can go a long way. Most food banks have wholesale partnerships and can stretch your donation further than a grocery cart ever could.

    Spread the Word
    Share this blog or your local food bank’s website. You never know who in your network may need a little support or be ready to help.

    Together, we can keep our community strong, full, and thriving.

    🧡 For more hyperlocal resources, community guides, and neighborhood support, visit guyduvall.com

    Contact

    For more local guides and real estate insights, visit guyduvall.com and check out my blog.

    Guy DuVall

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      Top Trick or Treat Spots in Thurston County

      Where to Trick or Treat in Thurston County and Surrounding for That Classic Feel


      There’s something special about Halloween night in the South Sound. The crisp fall air, the sound of kids laughing in costume, the smell of firewood, and the joy of going door to door. I used to take my kids trick or treating when they were little, and now I get to do that with my grandkids. Same streets, same traditions, just a few more gray hairs and a lot more fun-sized candy wrappers in my pockets.

      If you’re still figuring out where to go tonight, I’ve got you covered. Whether you’re new to the area or just looking for a festive neighborhood with great decorations and generous candy bowls, here are my top picks for trick or treating in Thurston County and nearby communities.

      These neighborhoods offer walkable streets, friendly faces, and yes, a few of them are known for full-size candy bars. But you didn’t hear that from me.

      🍬 Meridian Campus — Lacey, WA

      Spacious streets, festive spirit, and a few homes that go all out.

      This is one of the best spots in Lacey for a reason. Wide sidewalks, friendly neighbors, and seriously impressive decorations. There are several homes here that are known for giving out the good stuff. I’m talking full-size bars and themed displays that make you stop for photos. Bring your flashlight and your walking shoes.

      📍 Map Meridian Campus

      🍭 Edgewater — Lacey, WA

      A quiet but festive neighborhood that really shows up for Halloween.

      Edgewater feels tucked away but always delivers a great experience. The homes are close together, making it easy to hit a lot of doors in a short time. People here take pride in their decorations and you’ll spot everything from inflatable pumpkins to spooky porch lights. It’s one of those neighborhoods where kids leave smiling and parents feel good about the vibe.

      📍 Map Edgewater

      👻 Classic Heights — Olympia, WA

      Welcoming community feel with plenty of Halloween cheer.

      Classic Heights is one of those places where Halloween still feels like the good old days. Kids in costumes, friendly conversations with neighbors, and streets that light up with jack-o-lanterns. It’s a great spot for families with young kids or anyone who wants a wholesome Halloween experience.

      📍 Map Classic Heights

      🍫 Continental Crest — Tumwater, WA

      More space between homes but just as much heart.

      Continental Crest may not be as tightly packed as some Lacey neighborhoods, but it makes up for it in charm. You’ll find big lawns with big decorations and welcoming neighbors who are ready with bowls full of candy. It’s worth the walk. And if you’re lucky, you might just hit one of those houses that hands out the mythical full-size Snickers. We all know that house.

      📍 Map Continental Crest

      🎃 Halloween Tips from a Local

      After years of trick or treating in Thurston County, here’s what I’ve learned:

      • Always bring a flashlight or glow sticks
      • Wear layers — it gets cold quick
      • Cross at the corners and stay visible
      • If a porch light is off, skip the house
      • Say thank you at every door — it goes a long way

      And remember, when you find the house giving out full-size candy bars, try not to yell it out. That’s local treasure map info. Let the next group be surprised too.

      🧡 Looking for More Halloween Fun?
      Here are a few other great options if you want to add something extra to your Halloween night:

      Olympia Farmers Market — Seasonal treats and local fun

      South Sound YMCA — Family-friendly Halloween events

      Hands On Children’s Museum — Crafts and indoor Halloween fun

      Happy Halloween from My Family to Yours


      Wherever you go tonight, I hope your evening is full of laughter, good memories, and just enough candy to keep the kids smiling (without bouncing off the walls). This community has always been good to me and my family, and it’s always a joy to share what I love about it.

      If you see me and the grandkids out trick or treating, come say hi.

      Contact

      For more local guides and real estate insights, visit guyduvall.com and check out my blog.

      Guy DuVall

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        Paddle into Adventure: Best Kayaking Spots in Thurston County WA

        If there’s one thing I’ve learned living in Thurston County it’s this — there’s no better way to unwind, explore, and reconnect with nature than getting out on the water. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful solo paddle or an afternoon adventure with the family, this corner of the Pacific Northwest has no shortage of beautiful kayaking spots. And the best part? You don’t have to drive far to find them.

        As a real estate agent and long-time local who loves the outdoors, I’m always scouting the best places to enjoy our natural surroundings and I’m sharing a few of my favorite places to kayak right here in Thurston County.

        🛶 1. Woodard Bay Conservation Area – Olympia WA

        If you want calm waters, quiet paddling, and lots of wildlife, Woodard Bay is a must. This hidden gem feels like a secret escape just minutes from downtown Olympia. Keep an eye out for herons, seals, and bald eagles as you glide past old pier pilings and lush shoreline.

        Local tip: Arrive early for parking and bring a pair of binoculars. It’s a birdwatcher’s paradise.

        Search-friendly tags: kayaking in Olympia WA, best kayaking spots Thurston County, nature paddling near me

        🛶 2. Black Lake – Tumwater WA

        Black Lake is one of the most popular local spots for kayaking, paddleboarding, and family fun. The water is wide and calm with easy access from boat launches and parks. It’s a great choice for beginners or anyone just looking to relax on the water.

        Local tip: Launch from Kenneydell Park for easy access and shaded picnic areas post-paddle.

        SEO keywords: Black Lake kayaking, kayaking in Tumwater, best lakes near Olympia

        🛶 3. Nisqually Reach – South Sound Estuary Adventure

        For more seasoned paddlers the Nisqually Reach offers an unforgettable experience. With views of Mount Rainier, miles of shoreline, and a mix of saltwater and freshwater wildlife, this is a bucket list paddle right here in our backyard.

        Important: Check tide schedules before you go. This area can shift quickly with the tides.

        Search-friendly keywords: Nisqually kayaking, advanced kayaking near Olympia, South Puget Sound kayak routes

        🛶 4. Long Lake – Lacey WA

        Long Lake is a calm and scenic place to spend a warm afternoon on the water. Locals love it for swimming and paddling and it’s especially great for beginners or casual kayaking trips.

        Local tip: Launch from Long Lake Park and bring your cooler. There’s a great beach area to relax between paddles.

        SEO keywords: Lacey WA kayaking, Long Lake paddling, family friendly kayaking Thurston County

        🌲 Adventure and Community the Thurston County Way

        I believe that living in the South Sound isn’t just about real estate. It’s about quality of life. That means finding moments to recharge in nature, make memories with the people you love, and enjoy the incredible environment we’re lucky to call home.

        If you’re thinking about relocating to Thurston County or just want to live closer to the places you love to explore, I’d be happy to help you find the right place to call home.

        Let’s connect and talk about where your next adventure could begin. On land or water.

        📩 DM me or shoot me a message if you’re looking to make a move this season.

        Guy DuVall

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