Trying to ignore the chill of the 0600, AM darkness I and my fishing partner, Dennis Morford left Kittitas Co., bound for Grant Co. and Billy Clapp Lake. Billy Clapp is one of those scenic jewels resting in the Channel Scablands of the Columbia Plateau. It's waters destined for the fertile farmlands of the Columbia Basin. However, at this time of year, with the irrigation system shut down, it rests, nothing gained, nothing seemingly lost. Still, it's depth seems to slowly decline, today it appeared to be at least 10-12 feet lower. The end of the concrete boat launch now rests some six or more feet from the water mark.
We were able to launch Dennis' 16 foot LUND with little difficulty. But then the four wheel drive certainly helped. We motored up to the north end, feeling the chill of the 28 degree temperature and the open boat ride. It was soon apparent that we were the only ones on the lake. Gone were the bothersome water skiers and the obnoxious jet skis. We passed a Bald Eagle sitting on a basalt island, a good sign. Our fingers fairly chilled, we soon gave up on jigging for walleyes or smallies and elected to try for some trout. It was much more comfortable huddling down, hands deep in our pockets, with poles in rod holders, letting the boat do the work. We picked up several nice fish using a dodger and fly set up, the best speed seemed to be about 1.4 MPH. Dennis was the first to score with a really beautiful big cutthroat of about 5 lbs (Lahontan ?) the other notable fish was a 3 lb Rainbow caught by myself.
With each fish caught we smiled and acknowledged: We may be crazy, but we sure are havin' fun !! At this point I'm not sure if there'll be a return trip. perhaps we'll make a whitefishin' trip to Priest Rapids. Or; if it gets a little colder, maybe some ice fishin'. Whatever, the outing, I know it's gonna be fun !!

Happy Holidays to all, and to all: Best of Luck !!

F. Harwood

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