LONG LAKE

Spokane County, Washington

Long Lake is a fairly large resivoir sitting in Eastern Washington just a little North of Spokane.   Created by the Long Lake dam on the Spokane River, it has backed up over 5000 acres of water.  As would be expected, the lake supports a good population on Perch, Crappie, Bass (both large and small mouth), Pike, and some planted trout.  From personal experience there are also some massive Carp and a fair number of Squaw Fish (Northern Pike Minnow). 

Fishing can be rather good.  In our last outing we picked up several slab crappie over 12".  In addition, we hooked in to some decent Bass.  Reports of 3-5# Bass are not uncommon.  Where to fish is a big question.  The miles of shore line is effective, and working the structure can be productive.  The big weed beds are also a big draw, but be ready to fish with heavy gear and be prepared to do some work to horse the fish out of acres of Lily Pads and Mill Foil.  As the day wears on, and the temps rise look deeper and you will most likely find some nice fish.

My advice for anyone heading out here is to bring sunscreen, some shade, a decent sized boat and some good electronics to find the fish.  Fish early or late, because during the days (especially during the weekend) the power boaters can toss you around something fierce.