Which river's better for teaching kids?

[Just Scott]

My brother and I are trying to find a spot to take our kids fishing more regularly. He's leaning Lewis since he's had luck with coho near Merwin but I've always liked the Cowlitz for the mix of trout and steelhead. We're both in Olympia and want something we can hit on weekends without a long haul. Which river's better for bank access and beginner-friendly spots?

 

[Alan]

Both rivers have a lot to offer depending on what you're after, hopefully some locals can chime in with specifics on access and what works best with kids. Good luck finding your spot!

 

[Karate_kid]

The Cowlitz probably has better bank access overall especially around the hatchery and below Barrier Dam. Lewis can be great too, but access gets trickier in spots. For kids just starting out, I'd lean Cowlitz cause of easier wading and more consistent action. Both are doable from Olympia on weekends though