Ice fishing could end soon
Perch like these are the target of most anglers fishing through the ice in this region.
Courtesy photo
The ice fishing season is probably the shortest season we see here in north central Washington.
This year, we have had good ice conditions on many of the more popular lakes, but how long that will last depends on the weather. It has been cold, but the forecast for warmer temperatures in the coming week may be a sign the end of the season may be coming soon.
I checked in with the folks at North 40 Outfitters in Omak to see how the fishing is at a couple of the better lakes up north. The best report is for burbot at Palmer Lake. Lots of people are out, mostly at night, and have had success. They are using large jigs or spoons baited with nightcrawlers to get them.
The perch have moved out of the shallow water near the state park on Curlew Lake, but anglers who are fishing in water in 40 feet or deeper are still getting good catches of large perch.
Those who are fishing Bonaparte Lake can be frustrated. One day, it's good and next, not so much. Also, a few anglers have been fishing Rufus Woods Lake, but that may change with the warmer weather.