Vol. 1, Issue 3, March 2015 | Page 27

Regional Reports

NORTHWEST

This month's regional report for the Northwest is brought to you by Scott Estes, President of the Washington Bowfishing Association (WBA)

(photos courtesy of Scott Estes)

As the weather continues to edge up near the 60’s, more and more shooters are heading to the water searching for large pre-spawn female carp. However, the higher temps are contributing to snowmelt and the rivers are running high and turbid.

Successful shooters are heading to lakes and reservoirs to avoid the seasonal runoff. Several reports from shooters indicate that females are already swelling with eggs and showing signs of spawning activity. This winter is definitely going to extend the season for many, so get out there and reduce the population.

The Columbia River is known around the world as a premier fishery for many species, predominantly salmon and sturgeon. The month of March on the Columbia also means trophy walleye season.

Anglers are currently targeting pre-spawn females in hopes of breaking the Washington/Oregon State Records (20.32 lbs. in 2014 and 19.94 lbs. in 1990, respectively) and many dream of breaking the World Record (25 pounds caught in Old Hickory Lake, Tenn. in 1960).

Most fishermen are targeting these walleyes on

channel edges and deep rock structures. Although anglers continue to use their tried and true strat-egies for hooking up with these glassy-eyed trophies, many have found themselves using a “Whistle Pig”.

This lure is easy to fish and made locally in the Columbia Basin by Spectrum Lures LLC. Whether you are a record hunter, or just looking for some delicious fillets, pick up a couple Whistle Pigs and take advantage of the season.

Whistle Pig Walleyes

Washington Bowfishing

Double Up!

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