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Lake Whitefish

Lake Whitefish

Lake Whitefish are non-native fish in Idaho that were first introduced in the late 1800s, likely from Montana's Flathead Lake and Idaho's Lake Pend Oreille. They are members of the Salmonidae family and have become well-established in northern Idaho waters.

Scientific Name: Coregonus clupeaformis

Physical Characteristics:
  • They typically reach 18-24 inches with some growing up to 31 inches, living 15-20 years.
  • Lake Whitefish have small heads relative to their body size, creating a hump-like appearance, with silvery sides and olive-green backs.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found primarily in the Panhandle region of Idaho.
  • They prefer deep, cold oligotrophic lakes and move seasonally between depths.

Key Locations

  • In Idaho, Lake Whitefish are found primarily in the Panhandle region, including Lake Pend Oreille, Coeur d'Alene Lake, Upper Spokane drainage, and Bear Lake on the Utah-Idaho border.
  • Target them at locations like the northernmost points of Banks Lake, around North Dam Park, Coulee City Marina areas, and along riprap.
  • Summer fishing can be productive in deeper sections like Devils Punch Bowl.

Specific Spots

  • Focus fishing efforts near tributary mouths during non-spawning periods.
  • They congregate in large schools in the deepest reservoir sections during summer.
  • During December through January, they move into shallower waters and reservoir inlets to spawn over cobbled, sandy flat areas.

Lake Whitefish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Lake Whitefish in Idaho?

Most effective baits include cocktail shrimp (broken in half), threaded on the hook with just the tip exposed. Popular lures include Dick Nite spoons, Mepps spinners, Cicada Blade Baits, Mack's Sonic Baitfish, and Reef Runner Cicadas. Tip hooks with single red salmon e.g.gs or try maggots.

When is the best time to fish for Lake Whitefish in Idaho?

Most productive during winter months when fish school in shallower waters, but avoid December-January spawning periods. Can be caught year-round but there's typically a lull during fall and spring as they transition between seasonal habitats.

How do you catch Lake Whitefish in Idaho?

Vertical jigging with small spoons like forage minnows or Swedish Pimples works well in winter. Cast and slowly retrieve small jigs and spoons just off the bottom. Always fish near the bottom where these fish primarily feed.

What do Lake Whitefish eat?

They feed primarily on small invertebrates including snails, clams, chironomid larvae, small fish, and fish e.g.gs, foraging mainly on lake bottoms.

Where do Lake Whitefish live in Idaho?

Found primarily in the Panhandle region of Idaho. They prefer deep, cold oligotrophic lakes and move seasonally between depths.

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