Hayden Lake in Late July?

[JayBee]

First, as a matter of introduction, I live in Portland, OR, have bass fished on and off since the 70s (used to fish in the northeast and southeast, took a 20 year break, then started up again out here about seven years ago), and am now back into club level tournament fishing.

I've never fished in Idaho, but am staying on Hayden Lake in late July. I've never even seen it, let alone fished it. Any tips to get me going in the right direction for largemouth, smallmouth or pike would be immensely appreciated. Ya' need not give up yer' honey holes, just some general areas or instructions would make me happy. And, if you're heading out this way, I'd be glad to reciprocate!!

Thx! JayBee

[Scarecrow]

 I've been on Hayden twice. The first trip we found some little LM. The second trip we had two fish all day. A 25" pike and a 16" SM. Bolth were found on the along the shore on the west side about the middle of the lake. Can't tell ya much more then that. The north end is where I'm told the fish are at but there are so many people out there it gets hard to fish. Good luck to ya and enjoy No :fart2:rth Idaho.

[bassn1]

 I havn't been home in twenty years. Post Falls.  But when I fished Hayden the docks always provided action thoughout the day. There are also a few islands in the northeast quadrant that produced a few smallmouths. This was back when the smallmouths were first introduced. The fish should be larger now and reproducing on their own. Also look for the early morning topwater bite along the flats around these islands.

You can aslo contact Jeff Smith @ Fins & Feathers Tackle Shop
and Guide Service
1816 Sherman Avenue
Coeur d'Alene, ID 83814
(208) 667-9304

Tell him Dan Johnson sent you

Good Luck