Cocolalla Lake

Cocolalla Lake, located approximately 10 miles south of Sandpoint, just off of Highway 95, provides an easy access year around fishery. Total size of Cocolalla Lake is about 800 acres, with an average depth of nearly 26 feet. Feeding the lake is Cocolalla Creek which also provides spawning habitat for brown, rainbow, cutthroat and brook trout.

Fishing access to Cocolalla for the shoreline angler is primarily limited to the northeast end and the east shoreline. Private ownership limits access on the southern end and west side. Boat access is available on the northeast end adjacent to the campground.

Although the primary fishing pressure on Cocolalla Lake has been for trout, opportunities for other warm water species really sets this lake apart from other north Idaho lakes. Particularly unique is the chance to catch very nice channel catfish. Channel catfish were stocked into the lake by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game and have done very well. The average size is about 4 pounds, with official reports of 11 pounds, and numerous unofficial reports of catches even larger. Other warm water species present are largemouth bass, crappie and an abundance of perch.

Fishing Cocolalla can be done with some very basic equipment. A medium weight 5' to 5 1/2' rod, with a matching reel loaded with 6 - 8 pound line will get you started. Terminal tackle will vary depending on which fish you are after, but a basic set up with a size 8 or 10 hook, weight and bobber(optional) baited with a worm or cut bait will be effective in many situations.

Catfish
Fishing for channel catfish is fairly simple and can be done with the equipment described above. You might want to add chicken livers or catfish stink baits your list of baits. Still fish the bait off the bottom. In the spring, boat anglers have had success trolling with small diving rapala or rooster tails in the shallow waters (less than 15 feet).

Trout
Trout fishing Cocolalla can be slow, but fish can be found from shore, or by trolling from a boat. If shore fishing, the basic set-up with worms or eggs and marshmallow are effective, the marshmallow will keep the bait off the bottom and in the fish's view. For the boat anglers, trolling with spinners such as a wedding ring type, or spoons seems to work the best.

Bass and Crappie
Bass and crappie are also available in Cocolalla Lake. Bass over 17" have been found and crappie in the 12" range not uncommon. These fish will be found near the shoreline, look for shallow weedy areas. Plugs, plastic worms and jigs will attract these fish.

Perch
Perch are most popular for ice anglers. Cocolalla generally provides a long winter season, and the fishing can be "hot" for perch if you get into the right spot. Equipment is minimal and the catching is great fun.