Banks Lake is your ultimate fishing destination with its mesmerizing 27-mile length and 91 miles of diverse shoreline, perfect for catching walleye, bass, trout, and kokanee. Set your sights on smallmouth bass near the rugged basalt cliffs or troll the deeper waters for feisty kokanee. Anglers are drawn here year-round, promising trophy catches and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're bottom bouncing for walleye or exploring drop-offs for trout, the lake's abundant ecosystem caters to every angler's dream. Ready your gear and plunge into an adventure; there's more about this unparalleled fishing paradise waiting to be uncovered.
Key Takeaways
- Banks Lake offers prime fishing for Walleye, Smallmouth Bass, Trout, and Kokanee through diverse seasonal patterns.
- Use bottom bounce trolling with Mack's Lure's Wally Pop Lure for effective Walleye fishing.
- Troll deeper waters near drop-offs and islands to target Kokanee Salmon.
- Target shorelines and weed lines using crappie jigs to catch Smallmouth Bass.
- Ice fishing in winter provides opportunities for Trophy Trout and other species.
Location and Accessibility
Nestled in Grant County, Banks Lake stretches across an impressive 26,888.30 acres, inviting adventurers to explore its vast expanse. This man-made impoundment offers a unique setting with its 27-mile length and 91 miles of diverse shoreline. At 1,574 feet elevation, it provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts. Banks Lake is a popular destination for ice fishing enthusiasts who enjoy the exceptional maneuverability and control offered by small ice fishing rods. In addition to its scenic beauty, Banks Lake is ringed with basalt cliffs and talus slopes, creating a dramatic and rugged landscape. Accessing this aquatic playground is straightforward, thanks to nine public access points, including six maintained by the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife. During the late winter, unlike Lake Roosevelt, the lake level at Banks Lake remains stable, ensuring accessibility to all launch ramps. Steamboat Rock State Park offers another gateway, alongside a city park and a private camping resort. Along the eastern bank, the Banks-Vernonia State Trail offers connections for more outdoor adventures and opportunities for nature lovers.
Driving to Banks Lake is a breeze. State Route 155 runs along the eastern bank, guiding you from Coulee City to Electric City. If you're coming from Moses Lake, it's less than an hour's drive, under two hours from Spokane, and just over three hours from Seattle. Upon arrival, you'll find amenities like hotels and restaurants in nearby towns, ensuring a comfortable stay. For boating enthusiasts, the lake offers multiple boat launches primarily on the eastern side, with rentals available for boats, kayaks, and canoes. Remember to check for underwater hazards, especially near the islands and southern end.
Fish Species Overview
As you find yourself surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Banks Lake, the allure of its diverse aquatic life beckons. The lake's waters are home to a rich tapestry of fish species, each offering a unique experience for anglers. Lake Whitefish dominate the offshore waters, making up a whopping 79% of the surveyed species. For those seeking more of a challenge, the elusive Walleye and the aggressive Smallmouth Bass are plentiful, with the latter being the most abundant in the lake's shallower zones. You'll also encounter Common Carp and Sculpin, adding to the lake's vibrant ecosystem. Banks Lake is a large reservoir that stretches nearly 27 miles from Coulee City to Electric City. Anglers can also explore the serene beauty of Timothy Lake, nestled on the Oak Grove Fork Clackamas River, known for its bountiful trout and kokanee fishing. Olalla Lake offers similar serene fishing opportunities that attract anglers eager to explore its waters.
Banks Lake, located near the Columbia River, is a prime destination for anglers looking to explore its varied fish population. When it comes to game fish, Smallmouth Bass reign supreme with an impressive catch rate of 71 fish per hour using boat electrofishing. Largemouth Bass, though less abundant, show promising growth and are a delight for those who find them. For a taste of the deep, Kokanee Salmon and Burbot offer thrilling pursuits.
- Lake Whitefish: Dominates offshore waters, making up 79% of species.
- Smallmouth Bass: Most common game fish in littoral zones with high catch rates.
- Kokanee Salmon: Planted annually, reaching impressive sizes.
Dive into Banks Lake's waters and discover the thrill that awaits!
Fishing Techniques
When you plunge into the world of fishing at Banks Lake, you'll find a variety of techniques that cater to each unique fish species, promising an exciting and rewarding experience. For walleye, bottom bounce trolling is your best bet, using rigs like Mack's Lure's Wally Pop Lure and spinners. Start slow, under 1 mph, in early spring, gradually increasing speed as the water warms to entice strikes. Dew worms, spiced with Pro Cure Trophy Walleye scent, are the top bait. Early in the season, focus on the north end near Steamboat Rock, but come summer, walleye spread throughout the lake. Walleye tend to seek optimal prey, which influences their movement and feeding behavior throughout the year. Bass enthusiasts should target shorelines and the weed lines around Barker Flats and Steamboat Rock. Casting 1/16th ounce crappie jigs beyond cattails or exploring the basalt islands toward the lake's south end yields excellent smallmouth catches. The emergence of largemouth bass in recent years has added a new dimension to bass fishing at Banks Lake, challenging anglers to adapt their strategies. Trout fishing thrives with traditional methods like trolling and set baits. Hooks tipped with worms catch rainbows averaging 15-20 inches. Winter ice fishing can land you a trophy trout over 5 pounds. For kokanee, troll deeper waters, focusing on drop-offs and islands. Standard kokanee gear works, especially in cooler depths during warmer months. When fishing for trout, it's essential to consider the barometric pressure that influences their feeding and activity levels, offering a strategic edge for a successful catch. During low barometric pressure conditions, fish exhibit heightened activity, making it an ideal time for anglers to capitalize on increased feeding behavior.
Seasonal Patterns
Fishing at Banks Lake is a year-round adventure, with each season offering unique patterns and opportunities for anglers. In spring, the north end near Electric City and Steamboat Rock becomes a hotspot for walleye during their pre-spawn in late February and March. As water temperatures climb to 43-45°F in April, walleye spawn, requiring careful catch-and-release practices for females to preserve the fishery. Kokanee and rainbow trout remain elusive, hiding in deeper, cooler waters. Unlike the more crowded bass lakes, Banks Lake offers relatively uncrowded fishing experiences, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a serene environment. Banks Lake's 27 miles long stretch and 150 miles of shoreline provide diverse fishing opportunities, accommodating various techniques and preferences.
Summer brings warmer waters, dispersing walleye throughout the lake and challenging anglers. Smallmouth bass and lake whitefish become active, with trolling lures or crankbaits proving effective. For kokanee and trout, focus on deeper waters around islands and drop-offs. Snowmobiles can be a reliable choice for reaching remote fishing spots during winter months. For anglers interested in ice fishing, using a flasher for real-time feedback is an essential tool to enhance the experience.
In fall, walleye fishing heats up again, especially around poppers and poplar bay. Lake whitefish peak before October spawning, and fish migrate to cooler waters, enhancing your chances of a great catch.
Winter transforms Banks Lake into an ice fishing haven, with walleye, rainbow trout, and kokanee congregating under the ice. Use traditional ice fishing methods near structure for best results.
Regulations and Safety
Exploring Banks Lake for its diverse fishing opportunities is thrilling, yet understanding the regulations and safety guidelines guarantees a responsible and enjoyable experience. Let's immerse ourselves in these essential details. For crappie lovers, remember the minimum size is 9 inches, with a daily limit of 10. You're free to catch up to 25 yellow perch with no size restrictions. When it comes to walleye, sauger, and their hybrids, be mindful of the 15-inch minimum, and remember, you can't keep fish between 20 and 24 inches, with a limit of one fish over 24 inches daily. Bass enthusiasts can enjoy fishing from June 15, 2024, to March 2, 2025, without length restrictions, but keep it to five per day. Safety is paramount, especially considering contaminants. Proper cleaning and cooking can greatly reduce contaminants, so always remove the skin, trim fatty areas, and cook fish in a way that lets fat drip away. Opt for smaller, younger fish to minimize contamination risks, and follow local health guidelines, particularly if you're part of a sensitive group. Chumming is allowed, but remember, lead weights and jigs under 1 1/2 inches are prohibited. In this municipality-owned lake, local authorities might implement additional restrictions, so it's wise to check with local agencies. By respecting these rules, your time at Banks Lake will be both fun and safe. Local anglers have identified hot spots where fish are particularly active, enhancing your fishing adventure with higher chances of success. To promote sustainable fishing practices, anglers should adhere to ethical fishing guidelines and avoid illegal techniques like fish snagging. Remember, Texas requires a fishing license for recreational fishing if you plan to cast your line in that state, so make sure to comply with local license requirements.
Local Amenities
Beyond the thrill of fishing, Banks Lake offers a host of local amenities to enhance your visit. Imagine waking up at the Columbia River Inn in Grand Coulee, where cozy accommodations set the tone for your day. For a more immersive experience, Sunbanks Resort offers lake view villas and cabins, complete with a cantina for dining and mini golf for family fun. The resort also boasts a family-friendly atmosphere, making it a perfect choice for visitors of all ages. If camping's more your style, Coulee Playland provides an array of options, including yurts and glamping, while Steamboat Rock State Park and Northrup Rec Area add to the camping allure with stunning natural settings. Additionally, winter camping gear can elevate your outdoor experience, ensuring warmth and comfort during colder months. Constructing a PVC Smitty Sled can enhance your winter fishing experience, providing a stable and versatile platform for anglers on icy terrains.
Dining and recreation options abound. Sunbanks Resort Cantina offers weekend entertainment, ensuring your evenings are filled with fun. Electric City boasts a golf course and hosts seasonal festivals for a dash of local flavor, while nearby restaurants in Coulee City and Electric City satisfy a variety of culinary cravings. Coulee Playland also features a camp store with an extensive tackle selection to cater to the needs of anglers.
Boat access is a breeze with multiple launches along the eastern lake shore. Rent pontoon boats, kayaks, or paddle boards from Coulee Playland, or moor at Sunbanks Marina. For convenience, fuel and supplies are readily available, ensuring a seamless experience.
- Stay at Sunbanks Resort for lakeside relaxation.
- Explore Electric City's golf and festivals.
- Rent a kayak for a serene lake adventure.
Guide Services and Shops
When you're angling for the perfect catch at Banks Lake, guide services and shops frequently play an essential role in ensuring an unforgettable experience. Hurds Guide Service is your go-to for expert guidance on catching walleye, bass, and more. They tailor trips to different seasons, helping you target your desired species with precision. Bobber Down Guide Service takes sustainability seriously, offering walleye trips where fish over 22 inches are released. They supply all the gear you need, making it easy for you to focus on reeling in the big ones. Moons Guide Service also highlights Banks Lake as a top spot for walleye, using advanced techniques like trolling to maximize your success. Fishing enthusiasts may also explore Hartman Pond for diverse species and year-round opportunities. Banks Lake is part of the Columbia Basin Irrigation Project, which plays a significant role in maintaining its thriving aquatic ecosystem. Purchasing a license supports conservation efforts, allowing you to enjoy your fishing trip while contributing to sustainable practices. A guided walleye fishing trip at Banks Lake ensures not only a memorable experience but also a chance to enjoy the tastiest fish around.
For all your gear and rental needs, Big Wally's on the lake's south end and Coulee Playland offer full-service marinas and tackle shops. Whether you need a boat or kayak rental, they've got you covered. Steamboat Rock State Park is perfect for launching your fishing adventure, with its camping and lodging options enhancing your stay. These services and shops are ready to support your fishing endeavors, ensuring you have everything you need for a successful Banks Lake fishing trip.
