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FR Exploring the waters of north central Washington’s Okanogan Country EE April 21, 2021 A Supplement to The Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle www.omakchronicle.com
Page 2 Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle
Anglers hit county
waters April 24
A
NGLERS WILL START rainbow and brown trout.
hitting Okanogan “Anglers can usually expect
County waters in ear- to catch rainbows in the 10- to
nest the weekend of April 24, as 14-inch range,” said Ryan For-
the state general fishing season tier, District 6 fisheries biologist
opens. with the state Department of
There should be plenty of Fish and wildlife.
water, too, as snowfall has been The Conconully waters have
high this year in the mountains. rainbows in the 10- to 13-inch
Most waters have a general range, along with larger carry-
fishing season — they’re open over fish from last year, Fortier
the last Saturday in April (April said
24 this year) to Oct. 31. “Fish Lake will be rehabbed
The state Department of Fish this year due to a bullhead pop-
and Wildlife’s “Fish Washing- ulation that is affecting trout
ton” mobile app is one way size,” he said.
to keep track of what fish and Salmon and steelhead regu-
regulations apply to lakes, rivers lations/seasons change during
and streams managed by the the summer, depending on
state. State rules change in July, counts over dams and federal
so it’s a good idea to check with agreements on the Columbia
the app, online or through the River. BROCK HIRES | The Chronicle
printed fishing pamphlet for Anglers must possess a cur- Young anglers are successful on opening day 2020 at
any changes. rent Washington freshwater Conconully Lake.
The app also features down- fishing license, valid through
loadable updates and offline March 31, 2022. Licenses can be (See separate story.) As of press time in mid-
capacity designed for those who purchased online at https: The Colville Indian Reser- April, the reservation remained
may not have cell service in //fishhunt.dfw.wa.gov, by tele- vation includes many lakes closed to non-members and
remote areas or on the water. phone at 866-246-9453, or from and creeks usually open to non-residents because of
Some minor rule changes are about 700 license dealers across non-members that hold brook, COVID-19 protocols. It’s best
expected in the department’s the state. brown, cutthroat, triploid, to check with the tribe, www.
annual fishing pamphlet this License vendor locations can Lahontan cutthroat, rainbow colvilletribes.com, before
year. It comes out in mid- to be found at the Department and tiger trout, as well as setting out for a reservation
late April. of Fish and Wildlife website, bass, bluegill, crappie, catfish, destination.
As of early April, there was http://wdfw.wa.gov/licensing/ kokanee and triploids. Okanogan County coverage
no word as to when the North vendors/.Anglers can dip their
Cascades Highway would open. lines into 67 lowland lakes
Fishrapper 2021: © 2021 Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle LLC •
Clearing crews began working managed by the state in Okano- Owned and operated by J. Louis Mullen.
April 5 from the east and west gan County. They represent Teresa Myers, publisher and advertising manager;
sides of the Cascades. about 18 percent of the state’s Dee Camp, section editor. Omak-Okanogan County Chronicle LLC •
P.O. Box 553, Omak, WA 98841; 509-826-1110 • 800-572-3446 • www.omakchronicle.
Many popular lakes should managed lakes. The county also com • Cover photo: Dee Camp, Black Pine Lake • The Chronicle staff strives to be
be ready for anglers for the contains 110 alpine lakes above accurate, however, all information in this publication is subject to change without
general opener, including Spec- 4,500 feet. notice. Because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19),
some recreation areas may not be open.
tacle, Alta, the Conconully lakes Ferry County sports about a
and Pearrygin. dozen highland lakes that boot
Spectacle Lake near Loomis out nice fish once the waters
opens April 27 with kokanee, warm up later in the season.
Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle Page 3
is split into Okanogan Valley, seasons announced under
Methow Valley, Highland and emergency openers.
selective fisheries. A few nearby The river undergoes constant
waters — including Jameson changes, so be sure to check
Lake near Mansfield in Doug- the latest regulations at the
las County and Banks Lake state’s website, wdfw.wa.gov/
south of Grand Coulee in Grant fishing/regulations.
County — also are included. Any sturgeon caught must be
Best success comes by fish- released.
ing lowland lakes early. As There are no size restrictions
the weather warms, fishing or daily limits for bass, channel
improves at higher-elevation catfish and walleye.
lakes. Walleye fishing is predomi-
Okanogan Valley nant from January to June.
Walleye limits are different for
Beaver Lake — The eight-acre Lake Roosevelt (above Grand
lake, which is open all year off DEE CAMP | The Chronicle Coulee Dam) than the rest of
Highway 20 west of Okanogan, The confluence of the Okanogan and Columbia rivers is a the river.
will receive 500 catchable trout favorite with anglers. Walleye fishing has become
in May and 750 fry/fingerlings. popular on the stretch of river
To reach Beaver Lake, a The pre-season forecast of Wells Dam. In recent years, bordering Douglas County.
couple miles north of the Loup for upper Columbia summer Colville tribal fisheries have Walleye can be caught below
Loup Ski Bowl southwest of Chinook is 67,300 adults to used hook and line, tangle net Chief Joseph Dam, as well as
Okanogan, turn off state High- the Columbia River mouth. and purse seine gear. most of Lake Rufus Woods
way 20 and go north past the The overall return is expected Steelhead and salmon fish- above the dam.
ski hill to a trailhead. The lake, to include 30,000 age-4 fish, ing often is open along specific Rufus Woods is always the
which is fun to fish from a float 30,300 age-5 fish and 7,000 stretches of the river for short best place to fish in mid-April
tube, is an easy hike of a couple age-6 fish. If accurate, the pro-
miles. jection would represent the
Blue Lake — The 16-acre lake 11th-highest return since 1980
in the Limebelt north of Omak and 89 percent of the average
(west of Riverside) is open year- returns observed over the past
round and has been popular for decade.
big trout with a few brown trout The pre-season forecast for
thrown in, said Fortier.
The lake will receive finger-
the Columbia River sockeye run
is for a return of 99,000 adults
For the catch
ling plants of 500 triploid east- to the Columbia River, includ- of the day
ern brooks in May. ing 25,700 Wenatchee stock and Our fish seasonings
To reach the lake, travel west 72,600 Okanogan stock. and our fish smoking
from Okanogan or Omak to The forecast is 30 percent of
Conconully Highway and head the 2008-2017 average return
brines put everyone
north to the sign pointing to of 327,800 fish. The Wenatchee else to shame!
the lake. The four-mile dirt road component is forecast to be
can be impassable in the spring greater than the escapement
because of rain. objective but less than the
Although there is no boat 10-year average return of 68,100
ramp, anglers can carry canoes fish. The return of Okanogan-
or small rowboats to the lake origin fish is expected to be
at the south end or navigate a approximately 29 percent of the
steep hill on the north end. recent 10-year average (250,000
Columbia River — There is a fish). Products available online or in the store.
year-round season for all game Colville tribal summer fisher- 509-624-1490 • www.spokanespice.com
fish except salmon, steelhead ies typically occur on the main 130 North Stone • Spokane
and sturgeon. stem Columbia River upstream
Page 4 Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle
as the triploids from the net wheelchair-accessible dock. A
pens are big and easy to catch fee is required to use the launch
for even novices, said Fortier. for boats on trailers
The river also has become a A state park is in town next to
favorite for smallmouth bass, Conconully Reservoir.
though largemouth bass also Conconully Reservoir —
resides in its water. Anglers can expect rainbow
The Okanogan County side trout averaging 9-11 inches
of the lake is within the reserva- with a few carryovers up to 16
tion, which remained closed to inches at the 450-acre reservoir,
non-members as of mid-April. which should be full of water
There are good boat launch- this year.
ing facilities at Brewster, Pate- The reservoir is located south
ros and Bridgeport. of Conconully and is open the
Conconully Lake — The April 24 to Oct. 31.
upper (Salmon Lake), with a There are a couple resorts
general season of April 24 to and a state park.
Oct. 31, contains jumbo trout Reservoir planting includes
in the one-pound range along 11,000 put, grow and take-size
with rainbows in the 11- to in November, 125 jumbos in
13-inch range with carryovers June and 15,000 fingerlings in
to 16 inches. May.
The 313-acre lake is also Conner Lake — Located near DEE CAMP | The Chronicle
gaining in popularity for Forde Lake, this 25-acre lake Conconully Lake offers an accessible dock.
kokanee fishing. (sometimes called Connors
Planting for the lake 15 Lake) in the Sinlahekin will be 9- to 13-inch range. county’s more popular lakes
miles northwest of Okanogan, planted with 600 triploid east- Travel south from Loomis but an overabundance of bull-
includes rainbows — 8,500 put, ern brook trout fry in May. five miles on Sinlahekin Road. head made that not the case
grow and take-size in Novem- The lake, which is open April There is a small, gravel boat the past few years The lake will
ber, 125 jumbos in June and 24 to Oct. 31, could also contain launch, with the lake best be rehabilitated this spring to
15,000 fry in May. Conconully eastern brook that propagate fished with a small boat, canoe address that issue.
Lake includes a graveled state naturally in Sinlahekin Creek. or float tube in May and June. There are two public access
boat launch with toilets and a Anglers can expect fish in the Access gets difficult in mid- areas with launches and toilets
to late summer because of available.
growth of weeds and brush. The lake boots out rainbows
Fish Lake — This 102- in the 10- to 12-inch range with
acre lake, located four miles carryovers to 15 inches.
northeast of Conconully and Anglers can reach the lake
open April 24 to Oct. 31, has by traveling either 4.5 miles
traditionally been one of the northeast from Conconully on
Bonaparte Lake Resort
Making Family Memories
• Campgrounds • Cabins
• Restaurant
• Great fishing!
509-486-2828
615 Bonaparte Lake Road • Tonasket
AL CAMP | The Chronicle www.bonapartelakeresort.com
Anglers unload their boat at Conconully Lake.
Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle Page 5
a dirt road past the upper lake plus 100 jumbos in May.
and Sugarloaf Lake or going Department of Natural
on Highway 97 for 5.5 miles Resources campgrounds, with
from Riverside, then west on toilets, are at both sides of the
Pine Creek Road for about nine lake.
miles. Boats can be carried in or
Forde Lake — The nine-acre launched at a launching facility.
lake in the Sinlahekin Wildlife Okanogan River — The river
Area does not have a planting flows from Lake Osoyoos near
history from last season, which Oroville and the Canadian bor-
is normal because it contains der south to the Columbia River
naturally reproducing eastern near Brewster. It can be good for
brook trout in the 8- to 10-inch steelhead when an emergency
range. opener occurs, which has been
The nearby three-acre Reflec- after approval from approxi-
tion Lake was planted with mately October to early the fol-
triploid eastern brook a couple lowing year.
years ago and could hold a few CHRIS OSGOOD, METHOW VALLEY FLY FISHERS | Facebook Because steelhead are listed
carryover tiger trout. Okanogan County’s waters can boot out some lunkers. under the federal Endangered
Forde, built as an impound- Species Act, fisheries have been
ment pond in 1949 and which inches. Anglers must be age 14 and modified substantially for all
could see higher water levels Big Green Lake includes younger to fish the creek, which fish species in the river.
this year, is open April 24 to a state Department of Fish holds a few rainbows. A steelhead fishery is depen-
Oct. 31. and Wildlife access area with Leader Lake — Leader, open dent upon run size that exceeds
Although there is a small, campsites and a concrete boat year-round, is located seven natural-origin escapement
public boat-launching area launch. miles west of Okanogan off requirements.
next to the road, the lake is best Little Green Lake normally state Highway 20. There has been a summer
fished early before weed growth boots out 10- to 11-inch rain- “Leader Lake has continued Chinook season.
increases. bow trout and some carryover to be a popular ice fishing lake,” Check the state site, wdfw.
A small boat or float tube rainbows to 15 inches. Fortier said. “WDFW will be wa.gov/fishing/regulations, for
works best at the lake, located Both lakes are nestled in a evaluating the perch quality this latest changes in seasons.
about six miles south of Loomis steep valley where it gets dark year as sizes have been mar- Smallmouth bass is the
on Sinlahekin Road. an hour before normal. ginal for the past few seasons.” best bet, with fish averaging
Green Lakes — The lakes The larger lake is somewhat The popular, 159-acre lake 10-12 inches, though some can
with split seasons - the larger disabled-accessible, though should provide good fishing exceed three pounds.
lake at 45 acres and to the south access is steep. The lower lake well April through June for There are no size restrictions
nine-acre Little Green – were has a dirt path. yearling rainbow trout up to 14 or daily limits for bass, channel
eliminated during the rule sim- The lakes can be reached by inches and larger carryovers. catfish or walleye.
plification of 2018 so anglers following Salmon Creek Road The lake received 2,500 Boat launches include a
are getting used to the selective northwest out of Okanogan for catchable rainbows in October large one in Brewster on the
gear restrictions year-round 4.5 miles, then a mile north
Spectacle Lake Resort
on those lakes, enjoying being on Green Lake Road. Anglers
able to harvest two trout more also can access the lake by tak-
than 14 inches year round as ing Green Lake Road off the
opposed to only in winter. Conconully Highway about Great fishing!
Rainbow, bass,
The bigger lake was restocked five miles northwest of Omak. blue gill, and perch.
with 1,700 catchable rainbows Travel past Brown Lake to Store • Fishing tackle
in May, and 150 jumbos and reach Big Green. Licenses • Boat rentals
4,000 fingerlings in June. The Jasmine Creek — This is Cozy rooms with kitchens
Within Many Lakes
smaller lake will receive 1,000 a juvenile-only water open Recreation Area
catchable trout in May. year-round in the south end of
History at the upper lake Omak. The creek runs from the 509-223-3433
finds fish in the 11- to 13-inch Omak Fish Hatchery into the www.spectaclelakeresort.com • 10 McCammon Road, Tonasket
range with carryovers to 15 Okanogan River.
Page 6 Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle
rules are in effect).
There is a U.S. Bureau of
Land Management access site
with concrete boat launch
on the south end and a DNR
launch site with gravel launch
and camping areas on the
north end.
There is one resort with cab-
ins, RV spots and small boat
rentals available.
Rat Lake — This 62-acre
lake, located five miles north of
Brewster off Paradise Hill Road,
is under selective gear rules
The split season at the lake
was changed in 2018 to a year-
round fishery with a limit of
two trout more than 14 inches.
Trout in the lake are averag-
AL CAMP | The Chronicle ing 11-15 inches and fishing
An angler tries his luck on the Okanogan River. has been good.
Drive 3.5 miles north from
Columbia, a rough launch at There also is a park with a with the statewide rule of one Brewster up Swamp Creek, and
the west end of the Monse boat launch at Boundary Point line with up to three hooks then take a dirt road two miles
bridge and launches in Okano- about four miles north of town (unless other, more restrictive north up Whitestone Creek.
gan and Riverside. Most shore- off Highway 97. There is a state concrete boat
lines are privately owned, so Palmer Lake — The 2,100-
float trips offer the best fishing acre lake open year-round con- Sunrise RV’s
opportunity. tains a variety of fish, including
Watch for a tribal weir south naturally spawning rainbow behind your next
of Malott.
Osoyoos Lake — Open year-
trout, largemouth bass (one- to
three-pound range), bluegill, RV adventure!
round, the lake is located a mile yellow perch (6-10 inches, best
north of Oroville and spans the fished through the ice), crap-
U.S.-Canadian border. Of the pie, pikeminnows along with
lake’s 5,723 acres, 2,036 acres a few burbot (freshwater ling,
lie in the U.S. primarily a winter fishery) and
Anglers can expect small- a few channel catfish.
mouth and largemouth bass, An effort to re-establish
a few rainbow, kokanee and kokanee at the lake started with
perch. the planting of fry in 2018. This
A few naturally occurring year, the lake will receive 2,500
populations of rainbow trout catchable kokanee in October
up to 14 inches reside in the and 100 jumbos in May.
lake, as do kokanee in the 10- Palmer, along with Wash-
to 12-inch range. burn Island Pond and Leader
The lake also offers good Lake, are some of the most
smallmouth bass fishing. popular for warmwater spe-
Yellow perch can be caught cies in Okanogan County, said
through the ice if winter condi- Fortier.
tions get cold enough. The lake is best fished in May
A boat launch is near the and June.
outlet to the Okanogan River. Burbot anglers must comply
Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle Page 7
above the lakes with a short,
steep trail leading down to the
waters.
Fishing is best from shore or
from a small raft or float tube.
The lakes are located 11
miles northwest of Okanogan.
Drive west on state Highway 20,
then north on Rock Lake Road.
Rufus Woods Lake — The
51-mile-long lake, which is
open year-round, is a river
reservoir behind Chief Joseph
Dam on the Columbia River
just upstream from Bridgeport.
BROCK HIRES | The Chronicle It was stocked by the Colville
Palmer Lake offers a broad expanse of water and several species of fish. Confederated Tribes Fish and
Wildlife Department in late
launch, but access may be a It is open only to juvenile Rock Lakes — This open- March with more than 2,000
problem in winter since the anglers under age 15, seniors year-round system of two lakes triploid rainbows that weighed
road is not plowed. 70 and older, and anglers with (five-acre upper lake and four- in around 1.5 pounds each.
Reflection Pond — The three- a disability who have a desig- acre lower lake), which are on Another group of 10,000
acre water, sometimes also nated harvester companion state land, is managed for cut- smaller triploid rainbows were
referred to as Reflection Lake, is card. throat and rainbow trout, which released a week later.
in the Sinlahekin Wildlife Area The year-round lake was are a bit bigger in the upper These fish can be identified
six miles south of Loomis near stocked with more than 1,000 lake than the lower lake. by the absence of an adipose
Forde Lake. rainbow trout in March. There is a DNR campsite fin and some have plastic
The Gateway to Great Fishing!
We have beautiful parks for camping and a public
boat launch to access the Okanogan River.
Great fishing just minutes away: Leader Lake, Buzzard Lake, Green Lake,
Rock Lake, Little Goose Lake, Duley Lake, Blue Lake, Hess Lake, Sugar Loaf,
Conconully Reservoir and Conconully Lake.
Left: Legion Park which borders the Okanogan River, is a beautiful park to relax and stay awhile. Middle: Boat
launch, public fishing access and RV dump, 51 Tyee Street. Right: Public fishing access by the South Bridge.
Enjoy your fishing trip! We invite you to Eat • Shop • Stay Awhile
City Hall • 509-422-3600 • okanogancity.com • okchamber.com
Page 8 Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle
and what licenses are required. launch near Chief Joseph Dam.
Boundary waters include Lake Salmon Creek — Salmon
Rufus Woods (Chief Joseph Creek from the Conconully
Dam pool), Crawfish Lake, Reservoir to the Okanogan
Lake Pateros (Wells Dam pool), River is closed to protect
Washburn Island Pond, Okano- spawning steelhead.
gan River and Lake Roosevelt Salmon Creek’s north and
(Grand Coulee Dam pool). west forks, which flow into
Steelhead are unable to Conconully Reservoir, have a
reach the lake because there is season that runs from Saturday
no fish ladder over Chief Joseph before Memorial Day through
Dam. Oct. 31.
Marked, designated launch- Statewide minimum size
ing areas include Seaton’s and daily limits apply, as do
Grove Corps of Engineers site selective gear rules. Bait is not
two miles downstream from allowed.
Elmer City, Bridgeport State Schalow Pond — This seven-
Park near the lower end, and acre lake is located on a path
the Army Corps of Engineers’ (watch out for sunning rattlers)
site upstream of Chief Joseph about a 10-minute walk from
JASON WETTSEIN | Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife Dam on the Douglas County the Fish Lake parking area at
Fishing from a boat is a popular way to go on LRufus side. the lake outlet.
Woods Lake. Anglers can travel 22 miles The lake should be good for
south from Okanogan on High- eastern brook trout carryover
anchor tags. If you catch one and a few smallmouth bass. way 97, then east for eight miles from last year.
with a tag, contact the tribal It’s illegal to fish for sturgeon. on state Highway 17 to a boat Heavy weed growth during
Department of Fish and Wild- Anglers should check wdfw.
life and provide tag number wa.gov for latest rule changes
and information related to the concerning the stretch of the
catch (i.e. date, location, length Columbia River from Bridge-
and the approximate size) or port to south of Pateros.
log on to www.cctfwfishtags. The state has an agreement
com/report-a-tag to report a with the tribe to accept tribal
Come in and catch a great deal!
tagged fish electronically. or state licenses if the angler is
The information assists biolo- on the water. Anglers must have
gists in managing annual fish a state license if fishing on the
releases into Rufus Woods Lake. Douglas County side from the
Anglers enjoy fishing for trip- shore.
loid rainbows up to 12 pounds On the Okanogan County
near net pens adjacent to the (reservation) side, anglers can
Colville Indian Reservation possess either a state or a tribal
(downstream from Nespelem license when fishing from
River) and Columbia River shore at marked, designated
Road. tribal fishing areas. Otherwise,
There is a two-trout fish limit a tribal license is required
and kokanee count as part of to fish from the shore on the
the trout limit on the water reservation. • Sales • Tune-ups • Full Service • Parts • Brakes
that forms the border between As of mid-April, the reserva- • Detailing • Rentals • Spray-on Bedliners
Douglas County and Colville tion remained closed to non-
Indian Reservation in Okano- members because of COVID-19
gan County precautions. If we don’t have what you want — we’ll get it!
Other species include wall- Consult the tribe’s sport fish- www.sunrisechevy.net • 726 Okoma Drive • Omak
eye (best caught near Elmer ing pamphlet for all regulations 509-826-1000
City), kokanee, yellow perch concerning boundary waters
Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle Page 9
the trees and willows — will lake in the Chiliwist south of
find a few rainbow trout in this Malott can be accessed via
north-running stream. Olema Road for small rainbows.
The creek runs parallel to It will be stocked with 500
Sinlahekin Road from Blue Lake rainbow trout fry in June.
to Palmer Lake in the Sinla- It’s best fished from a small
hekin Valley. boat or float tube for trout in
From Palmer Lake to Cecile the eight- to 10-inch range from
Creek bridge, there is short sea- May to June and September to
son from the Saturday before October.
Memorial Day through Oct. The lake is on state Depart-
31 for all game fish. Statewide ment of Natural Resources land.
minimum size and daily limits Spectacle Lake — This 315-
apply. Selective rules are in acre lake, formed as a reservoir
effect. for area orchards, currently is
There is a whitefish season open April 1 to Sept. 30.
BROCK HIRES | The Chronicle Dec. 1 to the end of February, One of the more popular
The Similkameen River offers whitefish in winter. with no minimum size and lakes in Okanogan County,
daily limit of 15 whitefish only. Spectacle was stocked with
the summer makes it difficult British Columbia six miles Whitefish gear rules apply. 10,000 catchable rainbow
to fish by midsummer at the north of Palmer Lake and flows From Cecile Creek upstream trout in March and will receive
lake, where float tubes work about 18 miles south and east to all tributaries there is a sea- 27,000 fingerling rainbows in
best. There’s limited shore to Oroville, dropping over son for all game fish from the May. The lake received 10,000
access. Enloe Dam before entering the Saturday before Memorial Day grow-and-take rainbows in
Open year-round, the pond Okanogan River. to Oct. 31. Statewide minimum October of 2013.
is 4.5 miles northeast of Conco- Fishing is closed for all spe- size and daily limits apply. Anglers can expect rainbow
nully in the Sinlahekin Wildlife cies from 400 feet below the Smith Lake — This 10-acre trout in the 10- to 12-inch range
Area. dam to 400 feet upstream of the
Silver Nail Lake — The tiny,
five-acre lake that is open
dam.
Steelhead fishing seasons
Alpine Veterinary Clinic
year-round to juveniles only are open through emergency “Quality care for large and small animals
(14 years old and younger) and regulation only as the fish are since 1977”
disabled angers with a reduced protected under the federal Denise S. Krytenberg, D.V.M.
fee license, lies four miles north Endangered Species Act. Charlie McCraigie, D.V.M. (Equine)
of Oroville off Highway 97. Anglers should check the
It is best fished from a small state Department of Fish and • Air conditioned boarding
boat or float tube for trout in Wildlife’s website for opening
• In-house diagnostic lab
the nine- to 10-inch range. dates and restrictions.
There is a state Department When steelhead can be • Monday-Friday
of Fish and Wildlife parking taken, the river is open from 8 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
area. Boats will need to be the Okanogan River to 400 feet
hand carried to the lake edge. below Enloe Dam. A steelhead
Similkameen River — fishery is dependent upon
Located west of Oroville, this run size, which must exceed
river extends into Canada and natural-origin escapement
offers fair fishing for winter requirements.
whitefish in a season of Dec. A road from Oroville follows
1 to the end of February from the river most of its length to 509-826-5882
Enloe Dam to the mouth. Nighthawk. The Similkameen 741 Riverside Drive
There is no minimum size Trail runs from Oroville to the Omak
for whitefish, with a daily limit dam.
of 15 whitefish only; whitefish Sinlahekin Creek — Anglers
gear rules apply. with gumption and guts — rat-
The river enters the U.S. from tlesnakes like to slither among
Page 10 Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle with holdovers up to 15 inches Internal combustion engines at the lake nine miles north- cannot be used in this water west of Tonasket and 2.5 miles body. east of Loomis off Loomis- The pond, located on the Oroville Road. Colville Indian Reservation, The lake also contains large- currently has a season of April 1 mouth bass, bluegill in the 6- to to Sept. 30. As of mid-April, the 8-inch range (best fished May reservation remained closed to July) and yellow perch. to non-members because of There are two resorts with COVID-19 precautions. boat launching facilities, plus Anglers must possess both a state Department of Fish and state and Colville tribal fishing Wildlife access site with a con- licenses if fishing from shore crete boat launch and toilets. on reservation property. A state Starzman Lakes — There are license is required for fishing three, small lakes open year- OKANOGAN COUNTY FLY FISHING CLUB from a boat. round on U.S. Bureau of Land Fly fishermen check their gear before setting out. Statewide minimum size and Management land near Brew- daily limit rules apply. ster off North Star Road. Each walk-in lake holds cutthroat south of Oroville on the west Largemouth bass run up to will get a few hundred finger- trout, which cannot be kept side of the Okanogan River, a couple pounds at the pond ling plants in May. and must be released if caught, then west three miles past Blue 22 miles south of Okanogan. The middle five-acre lake and eastern brook, which can Lake to the north tip of Wanna- From Okanogan, travel south and the upper eight-acre lake be found in the lake and its cut on Wannacut Lake Road. on Highway 97 to the truck are best fished from a float tube tributaries. The lake is best fished from weigh station and travel east on or from shore. The 20-acre lake, which is a boat because of limited shore Highway 17 for about a mile to The lower 4.3-acre lake fished hard early and open access. a southbound road to the pond. contains largemouth bass and year-round, is about 12 miles A resort and public access A Douglas County Public bluegill. northwest of Conconully. with toilets and launch are Utility District boat launch has A poor access road often Little Tiffany Lake, which available. been upgraded, with toilets and means having to hike to the is about four acres and holds Washburn Island Pond — parking available. lakes, which can be reached by cutthroats, which must be Among the weed beds, anglers Washburn Lake — Expect a going north of Brewster on Old released, is 0.7 mile south of Big are catching largemouth bass, short hike to reach triploid east- Highway 97 for 1.5 miles and Tiffany. bluegill (some good-sized ern brook trout and tiger trout turning left to follow Starzman Wannacut Lake — This 412- ones) and channel catfish at in this 13-acre lake located on Creek eight miles to the south acre lake north of Whitestone this 130-acre diked area off the Palmer Mountain two miles end of lower Starzman Lake. Lake often lags warmer, lower- Columbia River five miles east northeast of Loomis. Sugarloaf Lake — This six- elevation lakes by a few weeks, of Brewster off Highway 17. The lake, which is on U.S. acre lake north of Conconully but continues to be a good fish- Anglers are reminded to Bureau of Land Management Lake, which has been slowly ing lake for rainbow trout in the adhere to the statewide large- land, is open April 24 to Oct. 31. rising its water level, has car- 10- to 12-inch range with a few mouth harvest size restrictions. There is a one-fish limit ryover triploid eastern brook carryovers up to 14 inches. trout in the 8- to 11-inch range. The lake, which currently has 509-826-5004 It will also be stocked with 700 an April 24-to-Oct. 31 season, 2 East Bartlett, Omak triploid fingerlings in May. contains saline water (magne- Kevin Fletcher, Owner Because water levels have sium sulfate) that makes fish been higher the last couple taste especially good. years, the fish are a bit bigger, Anglers can go north from in the 10-inch range. Tonasket on the west side of the There is a U.S. Forest Service Okanogan River for 4.5 miles, campground with a gravel then west for another 4.5 miles launch site for small boats. The on Loomis-Oroville Road before campground is a favorite of fall going north four miles to the deer hunters. south end of the lake. AC Service • All major engine, transmission, (Big) Tiffany Lake — This Another route is 2.5 miles differential and exhaust work. Stop by or call us today.
Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle Page 11
for trout.A BLM campground catchable-size rainbows and
offers boat access limited to 700 fingerlings in May The lakes
craft that can be carried a short — the smaller is 1,100 feet east
distance to the lake. of the big lake — produce well
Go north and then west from early in the season for fish in
Loomis on an unimproved road the 10- to 13-inch range. Fish-
starting near the west end of ing, especially with a fly, picks
Spectacle Lake. up again in September and
Whitestone Lake — Open all October.
year, this 173-acre lake is con- Go east on state Highway
sidered one of the most impor- 20 from Tonasket for about 18
tant warm-water fisheries in miles, then north 12 miles past
the county. Bonaparte Lake.
The lake is located about five From Oroville, drive east on
miles northwest of Tonasket, the county road through Che-
with largemouth bass biting saw and take Forest Road No.
well from May through July. 9480 to reach Beaver Lakes and
A trophy largemouth bass Beth Lake. Signs along the way WASHINGTON DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE
fishery has been established also will direct travelers to Lost An angler seeks fish, using a spinning setup.
there for several decades, said and Bonaparte lakes.
Fortier. The main Beaver Lake fea- diverse state-managed lake in Bonaparte, popular in both
Channel catfish are stocked tures a U.S. Forest Service the county with kokanee, rain- winter and summer, is located
periodically as funding allows. campground and a gravel boat bow, eastern brook and tiger about 20 miles east of Tonasket
There is a largemouth bass launch. Another campground is trout and lake trout, and small- and north off state Highway 20.
slot limit with a daily catch at the smaller lake. mouth bass. There is a resort with cabins,
limit of five fish less than 12 Beth Lake — This 13-acre The lake will be stocked with camping and boat launch, plus
inches or over 17 inches. No lake that is open year-round is 10,000 tiger trout fingerlings in a national forest campground
more than one fish can be located a half-mile northwest of May. with a boat ramp and fishing
more than 17 inches. Big Beaver Lake. Anglers can expect kokanee pier.
Bass, which are best fished Carryover fishing is expected in the 10- to 13-inch range, The lake also can be reached
early, can reach the two- to to be good this year and 2,000 brookies in the 10- to 12-inch from Oroville via a scenic route
four-pound range. fingerlings will be planted in range and tiger trout up to 15 through Chesaw. Follow signs
Bluegill in the four-inch May, making next year good as inches. to Bonaparte or Lost Lake.
range are in the lake, too. well.Take County Road No. 9480 The lake also holds small- Crawfish Lake — Crawfish,
Drive north from Tonasket from Little Beaver to Beth Lake. mouth bass, rainbows and rare which is open April 24 to Oct.
on the west side of the Okano- There are a boat launch and Mackinaw (lake trout). 31, is partially on state land and
gan River for 4.5 miles, then Forest Service campground. The state encourages anglers partially on Colville tribal land
west for three miles to the lake. Bonaparte Creek — The to retain smallmouth bass to (southern half) about 12 miles
There is a well-developed creek, which flows from reduce their population and east of Riverside.
state Department of Fish and Bonaparte Lake to the Okano- balance species in the lake. The state will plant 1,000
Wildlife public access that gan River through Tonasket, is
includes handicapped access closed from the mouth to the
along with launch and toilets.
Camping is allowed.
falls, about a mile upstream, to
protect steelhead spawning and
Anderson’s
Okanogan Highlands rearing. The closure is a coop-
erative effort with the Colville
Grocery
A family tradition since 1900
Beaver Lakes — These lakes Confederated Tribes.
Don’t go hungry!
of 30 and six acres, which lie at Above the falls, the creek car- It doesn’t matter
2,700 feet elevation, are open ries the typical stream season if the fish aren’t biting.
from the fourth Saturday in of the Saturday before Memo- Daily deli specials
April (April 24 this year) to Oct. rial Day to Oct. 31. Full service deli and bakery
Great meats and veggies
31 and are located near Beth Bonaparte Lake — This
Open daily 8 a.m.-8 p.m.
Lake southeast of Chesaw. 159-acre lake that is open year-
711 S. Clark • Republic • 509-775-3378
They will be planted with 500 round is considered the mostPage 12 Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle
rainbow fingerlings in May. Take Highway 20 east out
Carryovers are expected to be of Tonasket for 15 miles to
good. Bonaparte Lake Road, then
A state license is required north 13 miles to the lake.
when fishing from a boat. A Lost Creek — This is one of
tribal permit is required when several creeks in the Highlands
fishing from shore on tribal offering naturally spawning
land. As of mid-April, the res- eastern brook in the six- to
ervation remained closed to eight-inch range with a few
non-members as a COVID-19 10-inchers. Other Highlands
precaution. creeks include Toroda,
Anglers can expect rainbows Bonaparte and Myers.
in the 10- to 12-inch range and Anglers should check on
brookies in the 10-inch range. when the creek opens, as it was
There is a U.S. Forest Ser- not listed in the state’s online
vice campground with a boat pamphlet this spring.
launch at the lake. The creek, which may hold
Internal combustion motors a few rainbows, is mostly
are prohibited. surrounded by private land.
The 80-acre lake at 4,475 feet Anglers should get permis-
elevation can be reached by OKANOGAN VALLEY BASS CLUB sion from landowners before
traveling northeast 18 miles up Participants in an Okanogan Valley Bass Club fishing.
Tunk Valley out of Riverside tournament show their catch. Lost Creek is located about
or by going north from state 24 miles southeast of Tonasket
Highway 155 on the Lyman 11-inch range. minimum size and daily limit on Aeneas Valley Road. The
Lake-Moses Mountain Road to Take Highway 20 east from applies. It’s unlawful to use lead creek is a tributary of the San
Crawfish Lake Road. Tonasket to Aeneas Valley weights or lead jigs measuring Poil River’s west fork.
Fancher Dam Pond — This Road, then east seven miles to one and a half inches or less A road one mile west of
20-acre reservoir that’s open the lakeshore. Less than one- along the longest axis. Aeneas leads south up the
year-round offers rainbow trout quarter mile away is Round The lead restriction is to pro- creek for about 10 miles. There
about 11 miles northeast of Lake. Access is available to tect nesting loons at the lake. is a Forest Service campground
Tonasket. both lakes, which lie on private The 47-acre lake is best about two miles up the creek.
The lake will receive 300 property. fished in the spring and fall. Lyman Lake — This four-acre
catchable rainbows and 1,000 Lost Lake — This lake, which Warm, summer waters cause lake is located near the Aeneas
fingerlings in May. is open year-round, is located brookies to become night feed- Valley.
The reservoir, which suffers north of Bonaparte Lake. ers at the lake, located at an The lake, which can suffer
from irrigation draw-down and It will receive 8,000 triploid elevation of 3,817 feet. from algae blooms, is located
sometimes winter kills, can be eastern brook trout in May. A Forest Service campground off Aeneas Valley Road on
reached off Havillah and Swan- Internal combustion motors with graveled boat launch is U.S. Forest Service property. A
son Mill roads. are prohibited. The state available at the north end. campsite is offered, along with
Expect fish in the 10- to
12-inch range that can be
reached with a small boat or Dave’s
float tube. Radiator
Long Lake — Like nearby
Round and Ell lakes, this Service Fish all day then
17-acre lake has suffered from
low water levels.
• Domestic and commercial
• Radiator repair and sales
relax with us!
Long will be stocked with Omak Lube • Metal carports and buildings Weekend Breakfasts
300 catchable rainbows in May & Wash, Inc. Delivered and setup Local Bison Burgers
and 2,200 fingerlings in JuneBe 509-826-6097 253 Robinson Canyon Road & Brats
prepared to carry a boat a short 701 Omache Drive, Omak Omak
Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m. 2045 Chesaw Road
distance to the lake, where you 509-826-0750 Chesaw • 509-485-2174
expect rainbows in the 10- toFishrapper 2021, The Chronicle Page 13
operated jointly by a local
property owner, the Oroville
Sportsmen’s Club and the
state Department of Fish and
Wildlife.
Sidley and nearby Molson
(if it does not summer kill) are
popular winter fisheries. An
annual fishing derby is done
through the ice in January.
There is a state access site
with a gravel boat launch.
Sidley, which has good shore
access from a road that paral-
lels the lake, is located one mile
south of the U.S.-Canadian bor-
der and 0.7 mile from Molson.
From Oroville, take the Che-
saw Road up Tonasket Creek
for eight miles then north five
miles on Molson Road through
DEE CAMP | The Chronicle Molson and past Molson Lake.
Sidley Lake provides a calm place to fish on a summer day. Summit Lake — This 11-acre
lake, located 5.5 miles south-
shore access for small boats or The creek runs adjacent to the change July 1 under the state’s east of Oroville near Mount
float tubes at the lake, elevation road for several miles. simplification plan. Hull, will get 250 tiger trout fin-
2,880 feet. Round Lake — This lake of The lake includes an aerator gerlings in May.
Molson Lake — The 20-acre less than 20 acres, which has
lake, which is open year-round, suffered from low water levels, Conveniently located across from the boat launch.
Minutes from great fishing!
can suffer summer kills. is located next to Long Lake in
Molson, which is located Aeneas Valley.
near Sidley Lake, will be The lake, which is open April
planted with 350 catchable 24 to Oct. 31, has been popular
rainbows in October. The lake, on opening day for rainbows in
which has fish in the 10- to the 11- to 12-inch range.
12-inch range, can be reached It will be stocked with more
by taking the Tonasket Creek than 750 catchable rainbows
Road for eight miles east of in May.
Oroville, then north five miles Low water levels can make
through Molson to the lake. launching a boat difficult.
Myers Creek — Although Round is reached by taking
access is limited because most Highway 20 east from Tonas- 29 full hookups, 5 power only sites.
of the creek travels through
private land, local anglers enjoy
ket to Aeneas Valley Road,
then east seven miles to the
Bathhouse and laundry.
fishing for rainbow and brooks lakeshore.
up to 10 inches. Sidley Lake — The 109-acre COLUMBIA COVE RV PARK
The creek, best fished in the
fall on the lower end, does not
lake located near Molson at
3,675 feet is open year-round
City of Brewster
appear in the state fishing pam- for rainbow trout that are in the 604 West Bruce Avenue • Brewster, Washington
phlet, so it’s best to check to see 11- to 13-inch range. Reservations: 509-733-0540
if it is open. The state will plant 3,000 Phone payments: 509-689-3464
Take Havillah Road, then catchable rainbows in May. cityofbrewsterwashington.org
Nealey Road from Tonasket A current daily limit of two brewsterrvpark@brewsterwa.us
northeast for about 20 miles. trout and minimum size mayPage 14 Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle The lake, located at 4,320 feet, provides good fishing for fish of 10-13 inches through the summer. There are several campsites at the lake, best fished with a float tube or pontoon boat. Methow Valley Alta Lake — The 187-acre lake pumps out rainbow and kokanee trout. This year’s planting will include more than 20,000 fry/ fingerlings in April, 1,600 catch- able size rainbows in May and 125 jumbo-size in June. Anglers can expect rainbows in the 11- to 13-inch range with carryovers up to 16 inches. There is a state park with camping and a concrete boat launch, a private resort that DEE CAMP | The Chronicle can launch larger boats and an Pearrygin Lake, near Winthrop, offers a state park, resort and fishing. 18-hole golf course on the road to the lake, located two miles six-acre lake, which is open fry in May. season. southwest of Pateros. year-round, is owned by the Anglers, who can expect fish The lake will receive 350 The lake, which is ideal for state Department of Fish and in the 10- to 11-inch range, can catchable size rainbows in May, small boats and canoes, cur- Wildlife. park at the end Frost Road and 175 jumbos in June and 1,250 rently has a season that runs The semi-remote lake, 0.7 walk about a mile to the lake, fry in June so it is expected to April 24 to Oct. 31. mile southwest of Moccasin which is best fished with tubes have some decent holdover Alta is reached by driving 1.5 Lake (a private lake), holds or from shore. rainbows in the 16-inch range. miles west of Pateros on state tiger, cutthroat and triploid Big Buck Lake — The sel- The 20-acre lake is due south Highway 153, then south about eastern brook trout. dom-fished lake in the Methow of Moccasin Lake (a private a mile. Aspen will receive 150 trout Wildlife Area has a year-round lake) on state Department of Andrews Creek — Open from Fish and Wildlife land. The the Saturday before Memo- easiest way to reach the lake is rial Day, which is May 31 this follow the same directions to year, to Oct. 31, Andrews offers reach Aspen Lake off the Twisp native rainbows. River Road. The season could change July Big Hidden Lake — The lake, 1 with new regulations, which located in the Pasayten Wilder- have yet to be released. ness Area, is for those looking There is a two-fish limit. Fish for a bit of an adventure. must be eight inches long. Big Hidden, located about 34 Depending on the snowpack, miles northwest of Winthrop, the creek is best fished in late annually produces decent-sized June. rainbows in the 10- to 14-inch Andrews is 19 miles north of class. Winthrop on Chewuch River The 71-acre lake lies at about Road. The U.S. Forest Service 4,300 feet elevation and sees a maintains a campground next METHOW VALLEY FLY FISHERS | Facebook lot of action from backpackers to the creek. The Chewuch River has a catch-and-release season for and horse packers. Aspen Lake — This shallow, game fish. Travel about 20 miles from
Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle Page 15
Winthrop on the Lost River
Road past Mazama on the
Mazama Road. A one- to two-
day hike to the lake starts at the
head of Lost River at the Billy
Goat Corral.
Black Pine Lake — This
19-acre scenic lake that is open
all year is located on U.S. For-
est Service property six miles
southwest of Twisp at 3,900
feet.
It features brook, cutthroat,
and westslope trout, with cut-
throat in the 10- to 13-inch
range. OKANOGAN COUNTY FLY FISHING CLUB | Facebook
There is a Forest Service A trout caught in one Okanogan County’s many lakes.
campsite at the lake with a dock
and gravel boat launch. site and Forest Service Located in the Sawtooth Forest Service road follows
A snowmobile will be needed campground. Ridge area on the north side Gold Creek for eight miles. A
to access the lake during winter. Cougar Lake — Cougar Lake of Whiskey Mountain, Crater good trail of five miles leads to
To reach the lake, travel moved to a year-round fishing Lakes offer cutthroat to walk-in the lakes.
northwest on Libby Creek season a few years ago, just like anglers. Dibble Lake — This five-
Road, off Highway 153 south at nearby Davis and Campbell Go northwest 18 miles on acre lake on private land off
of Carlton, to Black Pine Lake lakes. This nine-acre lake con- Highway 153 from Pateros to Wandling Road near Twin
Road to the lake. Alternatively, tains rainbow and cutthroat the mouth of Gold Creek. A Lakes Road will be planted with
travel west on Twisp River Road trout. There is a daily limit of
out of Twisp to Poorman Creek two trout with a minimum size
Road, then southwest to the of 14 inches.
lake. Check with the state for any
Chewuch (Chewack) River future changes.
— This river that flows from The 80-acre lake will receive
the Pasayten Wilderness Area 150 catchable rainbows and
south past Winthrop and into 1,000 fry in May.Cougar, with a
the Methow River has a catch- nearby campground, is located
and-release season for all game
fish the Saturday before Memo-
south of Winthrop in the
Methow Wildlife Area at about
Indulge your fishing passion!
rial Day (May 31) to Oct. 31.
Internal combustion motors are
3,400 feet elevation. Cougar
gets little pressure because only
Opening Weekend Trout Derby
prohibited.
Buck Lake (Chewuch) — The
snowmobilers have access dur-
ing winter months. April 24 & 25
15-acre lake receives a plant Travel 2.5 miles south of Conconully Lake
every other year so won’t be Winthrop on the Twisp-Win-
planted in 2021. throp Eastside Road, go east and Reservoir
It should have carryover about a mile on Bear Creek Weigh-in Saturday
westslope cutthroat and rain- Road to the Davis Lake turnoff, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
bow trout from last year. then north 1.5 miles and east Sunday 9 a.m.-Noon
Catch tagged fish & win $25.
The lake, which has fish in for a mile on County Road No.
May-September
the 11- to 12-inch range, is 3514.
Adults $7 • Youth $5
located on U.S. Forest Service Crater Lakes — Open year-
ATV Jamboree June 11-13
land eight miles north of Win- round, this high-mountain lake
See website
throp within the Chewuch chain at 6,900 feet elevation
River drainage. includes a 15.8-acre lake man- www.conconully.com
There is a gravel launch aged for cutthroat.Page 16 Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle
100 catchable rainbows in May
and 500 fry.
The shallow lake, which is
open year-round, requires a
quarter-mile walk from a park-
ing area down a driveway to a
public fishing area as agreed
upon by the property owner.
The lake, which is best fished
from a float tube, can contain
trout in the 11- to 13-inch
range, especially if they survive
the winter.
Duffy Lake — The nine-acre,
cutthroat trout lake that is open
year-round is situated at 6,500
feet elevation where it is not
ice-free until July.
Take Forest Service Road No.
4420 for 10 miles west of Twisp
up Oval Creek to the Oval Creek
Trail. Hike 4.5 miles south, then
cross country eastward for a DEE CAMP | The Chronicle
mile. Eightmile Creek is home to eastern brook trout — and the occasional beaver dam.
Eightmile Creek — This
creek, which contains a fair For Dolly Varden/bull trout another three miles to the lake. from Winthrop.
number of eastern brook trout, there is a 14-inch minimum Louis Lake is open year- A whitefish season runs on
is eight miles north of Winthrop size and the fish may be round, although ice usually is the stretch Dec. 1 to the end of
and currently has two seasons, retained as part of the trout not off until June. February, with no minimum
depending on the fish being daily limit. Methow River — The river size and a daily catch limit of 15
sought. For trout, there is a 14-inch provides good opportunities whitefish. Whitefish gear rules
Eightmile Creek is open minimum size and a two-fish during selected seasons on apply.
above the Forest Service bridge. daily limit. selected portions of the river. There is a catch-and-release
Take the Chewuch River Road For other game fish, state- There has been a catch-and- season with selective gear
north for eight miles to the wide minimums and daily lim- release season for resident rain- rules from the Saturday before
mouth of the creek. its apply. bow and cutthroat trout under Memorial Day through Sept. 15
Gold Creek — The creek A well-marked trail starts just selective gear rules the Saturday from County Road 1535 (Lower
south of Carlton off Highway past the bridge for the lower before Memorial Day through Burma Road) bridge to Gold
153 is closed under new simpli- portion of the river. Sept. 30 from Gold Creek to Creek.
fied rules, Fortier said. The upper section of the river Foghorn Dam, a mile upstream A catch-and-release season
Foggy Dew Campground is is accessed on the same route
at the junction of the north fork as to Hidden Lakes, Fortier
of the creek and Foggy Dew said.
Creek. Louis Lake — This 27-acre
Lost River — The river, which lake, which receives a lot of
drains into the Methow River pressure, contains mostly cut-
about five miles northwest throat, although a few rainbows
of Mazama, is closed from its roam the water.
mouth to Monument Creek. To reach the 5,300-foot eleva-
From Monument Creek to tion lake, travel 22 miles west
Large bait and tackle shop
the outlet of Cougar Lake, there of Twisp along the Twisp River
For Banks Lake, Rufus Woods and Lake Roosevelt
is a season from the Saturday to South Creek Campground,
Campground/Marina
before Memorial Day (May 29 then hike two miles up South
509-633-2671 • 401 Coulee Blvd. East, Electric City
this year) to Oct. 31. Creek to Louis Creek Trail andFishrapper 2021, The Chronicle Page 17
fishing pier are handi-
capped-accessible.
Tungsten Lake — This small
lake, which contains cutthroat
trout, is located about 55 miles
north of Winthrop. Anglers,
starting at the trailhead at the
end of the Chewuch River
Road, will hike several days to
the lake, located near Aspen
Mountain.
Alpine lakes are open year-
round unless listed in special
rules. Anglers have best success
in mid-summer after the ice
is off.
Twisp River — A large
tributary of the Methow River,
the river is open for all game
fish from the Saturday before
Memorial Day to Aug. 15 from
DEE CAMP | The Chronicle its mouth to War Creek and all
Patterson Lake is open year-round and offers a variety of species. tributaries from the mouth to
Twisp River North Fork.
with selective gear rules runs above Mazama. center of town. There is a catch-and-release
from the Saturday before Patterson Lake — This 143- Toilets, campsites and a season for rainbows and
Memorial Day through Aug. acre lake, which is open year-
15 from Foghorn Dam to the round, is a mixed-species fish-
Weeman Bridge (eight miles
upstream of Winthrop). Check
ery 3.5 mile west of Winthrop.
The lake will get 2,500 catch- We have
your tackle
the fishing pamphlet because able rainbow trout in October.
there are different possession Anglers can expect trout in the
sizes and limits depending 10- to 11-inch range.
what is caught — eastern brook
trout, all other trout, all other
game fish.
The lake, which also contains
largemouth and smallmouth
bass, can be reached by follow-
covered!
Protect Your Gear!
Selective gear rules apply, ing Patterson Lake Road from • Tackle covers
with no internal combustion Twin Lakes. and pole wraps
motors allowed on all tributar- There is a state access site, • Multiple sizes for
ies not listed by the state under which includes public toilets, storage and
transport
specific regulations for Okano- with a gravel boat launch plus
gan County. a resort with cabins and small • Combo and
variety packs as
The river starts high on the boat rentals. well as singles
east Cascade crest at the head Pearrygin Lake — This popu- • Dodger jackets
of the Methow Valley and runs lar 192-acre lake, which has a LuresafeTM
to the Columbia River. season of April 24 to Oct. 31, Bait and tackle delivered to local launch
There are several access will be planted with more than Sponsor of the Okanogan Valley Bass Club 2nd Annual
areas along Highway 153, 3,000 catchable trout in May, LURESAFE OPEN bass tournament June 26, Brewster
which intersects with Highway and 150 jumbos and 55,000 fry
20 south of Twisp, and paral- in June.The lake, which has a luresafe@gmail.com
lels the river to its mouth. Five resort, state park with hook- 1408 Sunset Drive
Forest Service campgrounds ups and a state boat launch, is Brewster, WA 98812
with toilets border the upper located 1.5 miles northeast of 509-449-0605
reaches of the Methow River Winthrop on a road from thePage 18 Fishrapper 2021, The Chronicle cutthroat with selective gear restrictions in effect, including barbless hooks and no bait. For the Twisp River North Fork above the falls, the season is the Saturday before Memorial Day to Oct. 31 with the state- wide minimum and daily limit applying. For the North Creek above the Twisp River Road bridge, the season is Saturday before Memorial Day to Oct. 31, with statewide minimum and daily limit applying. Twisp River Road follows the river from Twisp for 25 miles upstream, with numerous campsites available. Varden Lake — This small lake at 6,191 feet contains cut- throat trout. A 5.2 -mile trail with an DEE CAMP | The Chronicle elevation gain of 3,700 feet is in Steamboat Rock is a prominent fixture in Banks Lake. the Silver Star Mountain area west of Mazama. nine inches). It is catch and The 457-acre lake is best City. From Winthrop take state release only. fished from the opener in Banks Lake — Bank is man- Highway 20 west to Forest Road This creek is only for hardy April to early July then again in aged for warmwater fish and 5310-200 and park in the gravel anglers able to fight through the October. contains smallmouth and pit. The unsigned trail to the brush to reach fish. Selective The lake will be stocked with largemouth bass, whitefish, lake is about 200 feet on the gear rules are in effect and no 5,500 catchable-size rainbow black crappie, bluegill, burbot, right of the Cedar Creek Trail. motors allowed. trout in April and 130,000 fry/ carp, channel catfish and yel- The unmaintained trail climbs The creek joins the Twisp fingerlings in May. low perch, along with kokanee steeply uphill then follows the River at the U.S. Forest Service’s Jameson has good carryover and rainbow trout. ridge top to tiny Mudhole Lake War Creek Campground about rainbow trout available from It is known for its good wall- (no fish). 15 miles west of Twisp. last year. eye fishing and this past win- From there to Varden Lake A road follows the creek for Located at 1,785 feet, Jame- ter didn’t disappoint walleye there is no trail, just a scramble two miles and a trail runs paral- son is 20 miles west of Coulee anglers. route to the top of the ridge lel to the creek for another 10 City off Highway 2 and north on A cooperative net pen rearing (with a majestic view of Silver miles to its headwaters at War Jameson Road for 6.5 miles to a project between the state and Star Mountain) and a steep Creek Pass. resort and about a half mile to local communities releases sev- descent to the lake. Nearby waters an access area. eral hundred thousand rainbow Varden, which is off the Grimes Lake — A selective trout each year. beaten path and away from Look south to find a couple fishery (see selective fishery Banks can freeze in the win- crowds, is best fished July waters just outside Okanogan story), Grimes is north of ter, providing an ice fishery. through October. and Ferry counties, including Jameson and opens June 1. It The lake offers a resort, a War Creek — The creek is Jameson and Grimes lakes in offers excellent fishing through community park in Coulee open from the Saturday before Douglas County and Banks August for trout averaging 18 City and Steamboat Rock State Memorial Day to Oct. 31 with Lake in Grant County. inches. It will be stocked with Park along with six state access the statewide minimum and Jameson Lake — The lake is 8,000 fry/fingerlings in October. areas. daily limit applying. eight miles south of Mansfield The 26,888-acre, 27-mile- Fishing closures and open- Like all creeks in the Methow and offers campsites, toilets long Banks Lake runs along ings happen constantly Valley watershed, War Creek and boat launching at both the Highway 155 south of Grand throughout the year, so best contains small rainbow (six to north and south ends. Coulee and north of Coulee check for any changes.
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