Howdy All!
I've been mostly a banker around the SW Wa lakes(Mostly Klineline). I've recently aquired a small lake boat and outboard. I want to try it out next week (whole week off-woohoo!) Any Ideas on which lakes would be an easy for a first time launch? (Horseshoe,Lacamas,Merwin Res?) (It is trailered, but small emough to car top it if I had to.) Anyone have any trolling tips? Ford fenders? Cowbells? Wedding rings?(if they still make em) Like I said Im pretty much used to stationary fishing, but am excited to give it a go. Trout,Kokanee...all fair game. Thanks again!

The only one down that way I have fished is Silver Lake, and it is open now, the launch is pretty good and not steep. Motors are still allowed as well. Good luck.
Banock

Thanks Banock, I'll check it out! Hopefully after next week I'll have some good pics to post!

We fished it for trout and bass, but I have seen alot of people fishing for catfish as well. Good luck.
Banock

Check out the recent posts about 'go to techniques for the opener'. There should be some info there about trolling.

Check out this web site, www.wa.gov/wdfw/fish/plants/weekly/ Maybe this will help you to decide which lake to spend time at. They (WDFW) are stocking a lot of lakes early this year. Nothin' like chasing the stocking truck!

I know Horseshoe and Kress (no gas motors) have descent launches.

Hi JeepMcMuddy,
Welcome to the bottomless money pit that is boating. If you check the Featured Lakes section you may find a few lakes that are reviewed. And, if you don't find anything remembed I'm offering a $25 gift certificate to anyone that sends me 6 digital pictures and a write-up of a lake they fish on. Check the front page link for "Featured Lakes gift certificate". I know I need more SW Washington lakes.
Good luck!