Fishing at Newman Lake

Newman Lake sits northeast of Spokane and offers a mix of shallow bays, weedlines, and drop-offs that hold bass, tiger muskie, and seasonal trout. It’s one of those lakes that can feel dead one day and fire the next, especially if you figure out where the bait’s holding. It’s got a bit of everything — pads, docks, open water, and a reputation for producing big fish if you put in the time.

Fishing from a Kayak or Boat

The public boat launch is on the southwest end of the lake and is kayak-accessible, though be ready to share space with wakeboarders and pontoons once the sun comes up. Early morning and late evening are your best bets for calm water and feeding fish.

Shallow weedlines and docks along the west and north shores are prime for bass. We’ve pulled fish off the outside edges of lily pads and in open pockets using soft plastics and frogs. In deeper sections, especially mid-summer, slow-rolling a spinnerbait or working a Ned rig can find those lethargic bites.

Tiger muskie roam the open water, often shadowing schools of perch or cruising just outside weedbeds. Throwing a big swimbait or glidebait might not get a lot of hits, but when one eats, it’s memorable.