IDFG Panhandle fishing report |
| August 28, 2012 |
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This report highlights a few of the best places to fish, what anglers are using and what they are catching. The information is compiled from regional Fish and Game fishery managers, local tackle shops and anglers. Lake Coeur d’Alene: Kokanee are becoming more abundant and smallmouth bass are going strong on the lake. Anglers recommend trolling for the kokanee but smallmouth are holding near the shoreline—try twin-tailed grubs or tube jigs to entice the smallmouth. Look for Kokanee in the Arrow Point area in the north of the lake; in the south end try Powder Horn Bay. Most of the kokanee are 35-45 feet down. Pike are sticking around the bays on the lake. Spinnerbaits, spoons and husky jerks are attracting the pike. Hayden Lake: The Panhandle Health District lifted the health advisory on Hayden Lake on August 23. The lake is safe again for fishing and swimming. Bass in the lake will stay deeper during the day, but you can use surface lures in the evening. Coeur d’Alene and St. Joe Rivers: Fish these rivers with dry flies such as hoppers, beetles and ant patterns, which have been effective on both rivers. You are more likely to find fish in the tailouts with the cooler temps on the St. Joe River. The Clark Fork River is also a good option for the next couple of weeks now that temps have dropped…bugs will be moving again. The chain lakes have been very good for pike and bass. Hauser, Cocolalla and Fernan lakes have also been good fishing for crappie, pike, bass and trout. We are taking angler comments until September 30 on changes to fishing rules. We are asking for comments on some general statewide rules and on 6 rules specifically for the Panhandle. Remember: Lake trout of any size and rainbow trout over 13” can earn you a $15 bounty. Check the Lake Pend Oreille Angler Incentive Program. |