Deception
Pass Park Foundation
serving those who care about
Deception Pass State Park
Deception Pass State Park offers both saltwater and freshwater fishing opportunities.
Cornet Bay has a six-lane boat launch on the salt water with large parking areas nearby. From this launch, boaters can gain access to the Pass, the islands nearby, and the San Juans beyond.
Bowman Bay has a one-lane boat launch offering access to Bowman Bay and the Strait of Juan de Fuca. It is muddy at very low tides.
Fishing in the Pass and nearby areas is very popular at particular times of the year. Ling cod, salmon, shrimp, smelt, crab, and bottom fish can all be found in abundance in season. The saltwater areas of the pass and nearby bays and passages are very scenic but also extremely dangerous due to strong currents, winds, and waves coming in from the Strait. Use utmost caution and care while on the water, obey all safety rules, and know your limits and the limits of your vessel.
Kayaking in the quieter waters of the park area is a great way to see the spectacular shorelines up close and personal. Kayaking in the Pass itself requires expert level skills and wise awareness of the inherent hazards.
Cranberry Lake has a car-top boat launch near West Beach for human powered or electric motor boats. The lake is popular for trout fishing.
Pass Lake has an area for launching human-powered boats into the lake. Pass Lake is a quality fly-fishing lake, catch and release only.
The two lakes offer quiet, protected waters.