The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife has made a significant investment in local fisheries by planting about 80,000 juvenile steelhead into Rock Lake, situated northwest of St. John in Whitman County. This initiative is a response to operational changes at the Tokul Creek Fish Hatchery, which has ceased raising steelhead to protect wild populations. By relocating these hatchery-reared fish to Rock Lake, state officials are ensuring that they do not interfere with native wild steelhead. The juvenile steelhead, which were planted on a recent Sunday, are expected to grow to a catchable size of around 11 inches by late summer, offering new recreational fishing opportunities.

Fishing regulations for these steelhead will mirror the statewide regulations for trout, making it accessible for anglers. Furthermore, the state plans to plant additional juvenile steelhead in Rock Lake this spring, enhancing the lake's fishery even further. The state record for a steelhead in Washington stands at an impressive 35 pounds, indicating the potential for exciting catches. This strategic move reflects a commitment to both conservation and community engagement in local fishing activities.