Two pole question

[metlhead]

While kokanee fishing, I notice a lot of rainbows, and some are pretty large. Being a legit fisherman, I do not want to hastle with the trout as bait rules restrict one to the first 5 fish regardless of being kept, and I prefer the kokes. With a two pole endorsement, may a person continue to bait-troll kokanee down low and run the second rod bait free, and CnR trout up high just for fun? Just one person in the boat.

[Bofire]

do you have two rod endorsement and is it allowed in the lake you are in?

[metlhead]

Yes, I have the endorsement.

[Bullkllr]

Interesting question.

Assuming you have the endorsement and it's a 2-pole lake, I think it comes down to the interpretation of "when fishing with bait". It might be one of those gray areas. Common sense says it should be fine as you are not fishing "with bait", but if you are asked to reel up the other rig and it has bait you are "fishing with bait" and could have an issue.

The regs say
In lakes, ponds, and reservoirs: No min. size. Daily limit 5. When fishing with bait, all TROUT (except STEELHEAD) equal to or greater than the minimum size are counted as part of the daily limit whether kept or released.

I'd maybe call the DFW and ask for clarification before I'd bet the farm on it being OK.

[metlhead]

I ask because it would be enjoyable to have non stop action with the rainbows legally while trying to fill my koke limit.

[Bullkllr]

I ask because it would be enjoyable to have non stop action with the rainbows legally while trying to fill my koke limit.

For sure

I just think this one is gray enough that it's gonna have to be tested before anyone can give a definitive answer.