Pike Fishing on the Pend Oreille River

[RobertH]

My friend and I want to go pike fishing on the Pend Oreille River this spring but still have a few questions. Can anyone help?

1) We're thinking about going sometime in the last half of May. How's the fishing then? We could go later if you think it would be better.

2) We have a camper and a 15' boat with a large and small motor on (so we can get longer distances and then troll if needed.) However, we know absolutely nothing about the river. Where should we launch? Is there anything to watch out for on the river - navigation-wise? Are there any good maps available?

3) Where could we stay for a couple of nights? We can use the camper or just stay in a small motel if there arent any good campgrounds.

Any help with any of these questions would really be appreciated!

Thanks,

Bob

[YJ Guide Service]

Bob,

Fishing at the end of May and anytime in June is almost always good, depending on the weather. The river is very weather sensative and depends on the water level. There is a nice campground in Cusick and the Cusick public boat launch is about a mile away from there. There is also Pioneer Park campground which may be open by then you might want to check it out on the web, plus they have a launch right there. As fars as the river is concerned you have to watch out for deadheads and the water level has a lot to do with which of them are exposed. Dont always assume because your in the middle of the river your safe. Just watch your depthfinder and keep a close eye out for shallow spots. There is good fishing from Newport all the way to Riverbend. Good luck and let me know if i can help you more....Yankin