BELLINGHAM, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – As the spring season brings us sunny days, blooming flowers and jumpin’ fish, here is a guide of how you can get the most out of the great outdoors here in Whatcom or Skagit County.

As it is officially spring and with tulips reportedly at 15% bloomed, it’s time to make the drive on the backroads of the Skagit Valley and trek down a few sketchy stairs on mountain trails. Trails have already been buzzing with bugs and wildlife this year, a few notable trails that are in good shape is the Fragrance Lake Trail and the Stimpson Nature Preserve. Of course, always wear good shoes and bring plenty of water.

If the tulips and daffodils blooming all around us didn’t remind you, it’s time to get a new fishing license. As of April 1, the new fishing year has started here in the great state of Washington and yes, you do need a new license.

With the mild and slow-warming temperatures as of late, several area trails have seen lots of activity especially those in Larrabee State Park. Don’t let the crowds deter you, but make sure to plan to walk a few extra steps for parking if you’re arriving late in the day. Another helpful reminder is to make sure to remove any extra belongings before you go as quick access to so many parked cars make break-ins a problem as with most trailheads.

Despite being great exercise and sometimes rather strenuous, Fragrance and Lost Lake trails offer lots of trout to catch for those that prefer a reward for their efforts.

Speaking of buzz, The Bellingham Farmer’s Market will be open weekly starting April 6 in downtown Bellingham. That means fresh local honey will be even more accessible to you to help with those spring allergies.

The weather may be warm and the sun may be shining, but Lake Padden, Toad Lake and Whatcom Lake remain closed for fishing until April 27.  Again – you cannot fish on these lakes until the morning of April 27.

The Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife enforcement officers are also out reminding folks that many lowland lakes do not open until April 27 either. In the meantime, Lake Terrell and Lake Fazon have been seeing plenty of activity since February along 2for trout and bass. The Kokanee have not had much action recently due to water temps not being as high as they need to be on Lake Samish.

All three lakes offer a chance at catching bass, but Terrell and Fazon were stocked with trout in February. Per usual, a few holdovers from last seasons stock are being caught as well. Bass fishing has been slow, but not for lack of effort as boat launches have been full with very few open spaces for late risers on sunny Saturday afternoons.

For fishing tips and proper gear, see your local fishing and outdoor equipment retailer.