Fishing Report 03-25-19

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​We have finally seen some warmer temps this past week and ice conditions can change rapidly. Always test shorelines as they are the first to go. Be safe out there!
Use caution when getting on the ice. What looks questionable is the early morning could mean trouble in the afternoon!  
 
Ashley Lake
Salmon bite is still doing well, but reports say sizes are getting smaller. Move and explore different areas and depths to find the bigger fish.  
 
Bitterroot Lake
Good reports about the salmon from North to South end and varied depths. Color combination is important and will land bigger fish. Shallow for Rainbows.   

​Blanchard Lake
A few nice Pike have been iced using a Jaw Jacker and small smelt. Be careful going through channel as conditions are changing.
 
Church Slough
Reports of a few springs opening up so use caution! There have been a few nice Perch being caught after fighting off smaller ones. Pat attention about 4’ below the ice to catch nice ones.   
 
Echo Lake
The top layer of snow/ice is starting to rot so use caution later in the day as temps rise. Go after the Whitefish using Pete’s Slayer in 40’ of water.
 
Flathead Lake
Yellow Bay’s launch is finally open! Almost all other launches are still frozen. Reports of boaters around Sportsman Bridge and Fishing the Delta.
 
Flathead River
Those eager to get out have been using Copper John’s, Prince Nymphs and Hairs Ear.
Lake Mary Ronan
Ice is in good condition, but fishing has slowed. Be on the move to keep ahead of Perch schools. Salmon are in various depths.
 
Lower Stillwater
Ice is moving away from log dam. There is still safe ice on the main body. Perch fishing is starting to fire up so grab some Demon Jibs and Maggots!
 
McGregor Lake
Lake Trout can be found in 60’, averaging 3-4lbs. Bigger ones can be found there, but more often they are deeper.
 
Smith Lake
Ice is still holding up and very thick. Pike fishing as well as Perch have slowed. Use small hooks and finesse plastics like Pete’s Mighty Mite.   
 
Thompson Chain
Ice condition is still in great shape! Perch are biting in various depths from 4’ to 70’ so be ready to go deep.