Williams Lake - Cheney, WA

Lake Information

Surface Area:319 acres
Maximum Depth:115 ft.
Elevation:2052 ft.
Fish Species: Cutthroat Trout, Rainbow Trout
Williams Lake near Cheney is a 319-acre lake known for spring rainbow trout and summer kokanee fishing. Open from late April through September, it offers consistent action for both boat and shore anglers.

Trout fishing is best early in the season. Shore anglers use PowerBait or worms, while boaters troll with spinners and spoons tipped with bait. Broodstock fish add the chance for 20-inch+ trout in April and May.

Kokanee become the main target by early summer. These silvery salmon are caught trolling 20–40 feet deep with small dodgers and corn-tipped hoochies or spinners. Mornings are most productive.

Warmwater species like perch and bass are present but not widely targeted. Weed growth in summer is manageable, and trolling lanes remain clear.

The lake offers great access with multiple launches, resorts, and camping options. It’s popular with families and RV travelers, especially during trout season.

Williams Lake is managed under standard lowland lake rules. For reliable Eastern Washington trout fishing and a shot at kokanee, it ranks among the best seasonal lakes in the region.




Latest Fish Plants

Plant DateSpeciesSourceTotal Pounds
10-08-2024Rainbow TroutWDFW 
6-20-2023Rainbow TroutWDFW 
3-25-2022Rainbow TroutSPOKANE HATCHERY 
9-29-2021Rainbow TroutWDFW 
3-10-2021Rainbow TroutWDFW 


Latest Fish Reports

Date Report Author
8-14-2022 Daily limits temporarily removed from Williams Lake prior to closure dates for lake treatment
Action: Temporarily removes daily limits and size restrictions for... more »
WA Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff
7-29-2021 Williams Lake Access Area improvements to close launch temporarily
SPOKANE – Work to improve the Williams Lake... more »
WA Department of Fish & Wildlife Staff

Detailed Map