Anglers of a feather gather at fly-only waters

A handful of Eastern Washington trout lakes are designated for fly-fishing only.

The fishing might not be any better than at other lakes managed for trout or mixed species – especially this year – but at least anglers on the water will be of a common feather.

Anglers can keep a fish or two from some of the lakes while others are catch-and-release.

Boats with motors are prohibited on most of these waters and opening dates vary. See specific regulations for each water.

In addition to Bayley and McDowell lakes on the Little Pend Oreille National Wildlife Refuge, fly-fishing-only waters include:

Aeneas (27 acres) near Tonasket – Holds low numbers of bigger rainbows and brown trout. Not in prime condition in recent years.

Big Four (small) along the Tucannon River south of Marengo – Decent fishing for small rainbows; bank-fishing-only.

Browns (85 acres) northeast of Cusick – Good for cutthroats in the 9-inch range. Has a Forest Service campground. Note that Browns Creek, which previously was on the same open season as the lake, now opens with the stream season (June 1-Oct. 31).

Chopaka (150 acres) northwest of Loomis – This once-prized rainbow fishery is in the dumps, infested with smallmouth bass, and scheduled for a rehab this fall. Currently it holds a small number of large rainbows.

Long (25 acres) south of Republic – Fair fishing for stocked rainbow trout.

Quail (12 acres) on Columbia National Wildlife Refuge – Has been a fair catch-and-release fishery for rainbows.

Rocky Ford Creek north of Moses Lake – Year-round catch-and-release fishing in slow, clear spring creek for big (24 inchers are not uncommon) but finicky rainbows. Bank fishing only (no wading).