Go fishing for a chance to win prizes in the 2024 Lake Pend Oreille Angler Science Program
Idaho Fish and Game
Idaho Fish and Game is working hard to ensure Lake Pend Oreille remains a world-class trophy fishery, which has been producing more rainbow trout over 20 pounds than anywhere else on earth, according to a press release from the agency.
In order to effectively monitor rainbow trout populations and angler fishing success, Fish and Game is inviting fisherman to participate in an Angler Science Program, which serves to help the agency collect monitoring data mainly through completing logbooks and reporting tagged fish.
Anglers can also win prizes by participating in the program. Participants will receive a custom Lyman lure and sticker and will also be entered into a raffle for Yeti Tundra 45 coolers, Bubba electric filet knives, Work Sharp electric knife sharpeners, Custom Yeti 20-ounce tumblers and custom trucker hats and beanies.
To-date, Fish and Game has learned some important information from the angler science program. For example, catch rates were higher in 2022 than in 2021, and rainbow trout over 30 inches continue to make up greater than 15% of the catch.
How you can participate
Complete a fishing logbook — Anglers must record information while fishing for rainbow trout on Lake Pend Oreille during the time period that coincides with a local fishing derby.
There will be a free raffle associated with each time period for participants who submit their logbooks by Dec. 10.
Logbooks will be included with the purchase of all derby tickets. If you are not participating in a derby, free logbooks can be picked up at the Panhandle Regional office at 2885 W. Kathleen Ave. in Coeur d'Alene.
Report tagged rainbow trout — Keep an eye out for tags located in the backs of rainbow trout. Each tag has a unique number printed on it, as well as a phone number, URL and reward value on select tags. Please report the tag number and location of the catch to Fish and Game.