SD2OR:
Was thinking I would try GP for the first time ever, and hopefully get my first koke ever. Would not at all mind some company, and advice is always appreciated!
Can anyone tell me the best place to launch?
From what I've read, it sounds like I should be fine flatlining, but should I bring the downrigger, just in case?
Preffered flashers, muti-blade Ford fender, or wobbler style?
Will launch around sunrise.
Thanks in advance!
Oldhammer:
No idea what winter kokanee fishing is like but I’ve launched July-sept from the thistle creek ramp and pedaled 20-30 min over to the island and focused on the water south of it. I did go up the quartzville arm once and jigged. The Whitcomb ramp looks closer but have no idea if it is launchable. Would join you if I could. In the summer the wind can create some serious chop around 10:30 or 11. Nothing dangerous but enough to make trolling two rods a pain.
C_Run:
I have not been up there this time of year but I used to put in at the little dirt ramp just before you get to Moose Creek up the Quartzville arm. They used to keep the gate locked until later so you could launch a kayak but not boats so that made it nice not to see many boats. I've used Slingblades as well as other types with success and flatlined with an ounce of weight to get 20-25' or so. I also have used a variety of hootchies with corn and krill scent. The dog legs in the Quartzville Arm are nice because if it gets windy, you can still find a shoreline that is somewhat protected. I also noticed a definite morning bite so I would start early if possible. I could always scratch them out all day, though. Good luck.
SD2OR:
Thanks for the input! Last night the forecast for GP had a small chance of rain. This morning it was rain for sure, so I decided against going. Hopefully I can get out there in the next week or two.
bb2fish:
I've fished GP alot. Best launch at most water levels throughout the year is Thistle Creek boat ramp. CRun suggested the best kayak launch if water level is high enough. This time of year, surface fishing is probably best success. Most willing biters will be at 0-20ft depth. I prefer downrigger fishing even at these shallow depths because the GP fish are so small, an ounce of lead can be a real drag and higher probability of losing a fish when you do hook up. Orange kokanee lures with a 6" leader behind a sling blade or arrowflash dodger. Pink lures work well too, as do wedding rings. I use white shoepeg corn with tuna oil. One kernel per hook (tandem hook on my kokanee lures).
Good Luck!! Looking forward to reading your report later. :banjo: