The resurgence of the Lake Pend Oreille fishery in recent years has provided many hours of enjoyment for anglers. Kokanee and rainbow trout angling make up much of the effort, but numerous species provide good catch rates and are targeted by anglers.

Lake trout predation has been the primary factor limiting kokanee recovery for well over a decade. Aggressive efforts to remove lake trout involving both an Angler Incentive Program and commercial netting equipment have dramatically reduced the size of the lake trout population and allowed a rapid expansion of the kokanee population. Kokanee not only provide a popular fishery, but also are the primary prey source for trophy species such as rainbow trout and bull trout.

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game will present a summary of the Lake Pend Oreille fishery at the annual “State of the Lake” meeting, today from 6 to 8 p.m. north of Sandpoint at the Ponderay Events Center, 401 Bonner Mall Way, Suite E, Ponderay. The presentation will include a summary of activities over the past year, fish population status updates, a review of fishing rules, and activities planned for 2017. Additionally, there will be time for questions from the audience.

For more information, contact the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at (208) 769-1414.

Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations at the number above; or, through the Idaho Relay Service at (800) 377-2529 (TDD).

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Andy Dux is a regional fishery manager employed by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.