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Lake Whitefish

Lake Whitefish

Lake Whitefish are non-native to Washington, introduced in the late 1800s after being established in nearby Idaho's Lake Pend Oreille and Montana's Flathead Lake. They spread naturally through connected waterways and became established when dams were built.

Scientific Name: Coregonus clupeaformis

Physical Characteristics:
  • These deep-bodied, laterally compressed salmonids average 4 pounds and commonly reach 20 inches, with some growing to 31 inches.
  • Lake Whitefish have small, toothless mouths.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Banks Lake contains one of the most abundant populations, with WDFW surveys showing their biomass is much higher than other species.

Key Locations

  • Washington populations are found primarily in eastern Washington waterways including Banks Lake, Lake Roosevelt, Billy Clapp Lake, Moses Lake, Soda Lake, Potholes Reservoir, Rufus Woods Reservoir, and Scooteney Reservoir, as well as the lower Spokane River Arm of Roosevelt.
  • Winter fishing at Banks Lake, particularly at the northernmost points across from North Dam Park and by the Coulee City Marina dike.
  • From boats, try areas off red buoys or along riprap.
  • In summer, the Devils Punch Bowl area of Banks Lake is productive.

Specific Spots

  • Target depths where fish school - they can be found from nearshore shallows during spawning to the deepest parts of reservoirs in summer.
  • During summer, they congregate in large schools over the deepest portions of reservoirs.
  • In winter, they move to shallower spawning areas.

Lake Whitefish FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

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

Small lures work best due to their tiny mouths - try Dick Nite spoons, Mepps spinners, Cicada Blade Baits, Mack's Sonic Baitfish, Reef Runner Cicada, Swedish Pimples, and forage minnow spoons.

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

Summer when fish congregate in large schools over deep water, with another peak in early to mid-December as they move to shoreline spawning areas. Winter is ideal for targeting them. Avoid fishing during spawning period from December to January.

How do you catch Lake Whitefish in Washington?

Vertical jigging tiny spoons works well in winter, while bait fishing with shrimp is productive in summer. Since they bite subtly and have small mouths, use smaller baits and maintain sensitivity to detect strikes.

What do Lake Whitefish eat?

Feed primarily on snails, clams, small fish, fish e.g.gs, aquatic insect larvae, and bottom-dwelling invertebrates.

Where do Lake Whitefish live in Washington?

Banks Lake contains one of the most abundant populations, with WDFW surveys showing their biomass is much higher than other species.

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