Northern Pike in the Northwest....Fishing in Lake Couer d'Alene
Tips on tackle, when and where to find these great fish
Northern Idaho has a number of lakes that have a good population of Pike. These great sport fish are a relative newcomer to the region and done quite well over the years, in fact the Idaho state record fish came from Lake Coeur ‘d’Alene. This large fish weighed in at 38 pounds 9 ounces. There are numerous specimens in the twenty pound range but with the popularity of the large fish there has been considerable pressure and removal of a large portion of those being caught.
With the changing attitudes toward introduced fish within the Fish and Game Department their future seems uncertain.
For now they provide a great fishing experience. The aggressive strike behavior can produce a big adrenalin rush to even the most experienced fisherman. They strike hard, run hard and provide an incredible fishing experience.
Pike are aggressive ambush predators and early in the spring they move into the shallow bays and coves looking for food. It is in areas such as these they find good congregations of fish. The weed beds and structure is ideal for them to utilize for their style of ambush. As the water warms in summer they will slip into the cooler water and cruse the shallows in the early morning and evening looking for an easy meal.
When fishing for these toothy fish it is wise to use a heavy leader or steel leader to prevent their sharp teeth from causing line breaks.
Tackle can be similar to what would be used for largemouth bass fishing. In many cases pike are caught while anglers were targeting areas that hold bass.
Lures usually consist of large spinner baits, plugs, and any other large bait that again would work well for bass.
About the only difference is these fish respond exceptionally well to the bright colors of chartreuse, and orange. Some of the newer soft plastics have also been known to be quite effective when these fish are getting pressured.
These less used baits will quite often elicit strikes but they can be severely damaged with any hit so they will should to be replaced as needed.
Care needs to be taken in releasing and hook removal as these fish have extremely sharp teeth. A jaw spreader is highly recommended to prevent finger cuts.
Much of the Northern Pike fishing is in the lakes of Chatcolate, Round and Benewha as well as the south end of Lake Couer d’Alene and in the Wolf Lodge Bay area.
The usual mode of fishing is by boat with the utilization of an electric motor for stealth.
These are great game fish and it is recommended that the larger specimens be released unharmed.
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