Greg and Allan: Roosevelt - 6/3-5/2023

We had 3 beautiful days on the upper portion of Lake Roosevelt at the North Gorge campground. Afternoon temperatures were in the mid to upper 80s, but the nights were pleasant in the 50s. Very little wind each day and bright sunshine made for periods of slow fishing. We fished from The Little Dalles to China Bend to North Gorge. We got 6 walleyes on Saturday evening, 21 walleyes on Sunday, and 12 walleyes on Monday morning. The average size was good (between 16 and 18 inches). A few were as big as 19 and 20 inches. Except for 4 fish we kept for a fish fry at camp, we released the rest. The water level was 1285 feet and rising, so we are getting close to summer pool. Water clarity was very good.

More info for club members: Our most productive fishing occurred in the evening hours. Locals claimed that the last couple of weekends featured hot fishing at the Little Dalles, but rising lake levels and fishing pressure had pushed most of the fish out of that area. Allan and I had our most productive fishing near China Bar and the river bends above and below the North Gorge campground. Most walleyes were caught in 25 to 35 feet of water. We spent a good deal of time Saturday and Sunday morning trying to catch fish on jigs and blade baits, but utlimately discovered trolling bouncers and spinners to be more effective for fish that have scattered out. A silver sparkle smile blade behind a 3 ounce bouncer was the most effective presentation. I like bright metallic colors on sunny days, and a heavy bouncer was required to keep the presentation vertical on the chunky rock bottom. I lost several rigs trying to fish a 2 ounce bouncer that trailed too far behind the boat.