Since I have been away at meetings I checked in with a couple of my most reliable contacts to see what is happening with the fishing up north. Keith Roe, at North 40 Outfitters in Omak always sees local anglers at his shop and knew what was happening at several winter locations. First off he knew that ice fishers have been drilling holes in both Patterson and Leader lakes, and that the fishing has been disappointing so far this season. The reports indicate that the perch are very small at both of these lakes. It has been a very “screwy” year, he says. The weather has made things difficult. Not only does the dramatic changes put the fish off the bite, road conditions have kept most people home. The one bright spot would be Bonaparte Lake. It is at high elevation and the ice is safe and people are getting rainbow and kokanee. Until the weather settles down and we get a few days of at least consistent conditions anglers will continue to be frustrated. I hope things improve when I get back home. I am in serious need of a good fishing trip, either from the bank or boat very soon.