Post by: Ridgeratt on March 31, 2015, 07:24:32 PM
I see that last fall the WDFW planted 104k fingerling kokanees in Chapman lake in Spokane county.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01705/wdfw01705.pdf (http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01705/wdfw01705.pdf)
SPOKANE COUNTY
Lake Name
Chapman Lake 146 OD KOKK 104,880 July
I know it has had a closed access for a couple of years and when I checked it is still closed.
So my question is why are we planting a resource that is unattainable to the sportsman?
http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/114/ (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/114/)
Post by: Alchase on March 31, 2015, 07:38:02 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on March 31, 2015, 07:51:45 PM
Why did they only plant 70,000 in Loon then which is one of the best koke lakes on this side and gets a ton of publicity.
Then again they could have planted some of them in Davis or Deer which both used to have great Koke fishing.
Horseshoe also has a Koke fishery but none were planted there.
Seems to be lopsided Logic.
They could have planted the token 10 - 15 thousand they plant in lakes Sportsman do have access to.
Post by: walt on March 31, 2015, 08:10:07 PM
Post by: goosegetter79 on March 31, 2015, 08:16:47 PM
Post by: Skillet on March 31, 2015, 08:17:36 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on March 31, 2015, 08:27:05 PM
We used to handline the Bass in there during the summer nites. A Jitterbug on mono wrapped around a soda can just barely off the bank on a moon light night. :chuckle:
Post by: Skillet on March 31, 2015, 08:37:57 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on March 31, 2015, 08:39:49 PM
But those were the good old days!!!
Post by: Skillet on March 31, 2015, 08:46:48 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on March 31, 2015, 09:01:20 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 02, 2015, 08:03:29 PM
http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/plants/statewide/ (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/plants/statewide/)
Post by: Alchase on April 02, 2015, 08:13:48 PM
I have had time to research this some more and I have found that the WDFW have mismanaged sportsmans funds in planting this lake from 2012,2013,2014 to the tune of 100k fish every year.
http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/plants/statewide/ (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/plants/statewide/)
Unless kokes will go upstream from the lake, they are just dying off every year and not being fished?
Or is this a "privelaged" fishery only?
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 02, 2015, 08:23:23 PM
Those fish could be planted in many other Kokanee lakes on this side and benefit sportsman dollars. along with a return to the local economy.
Thank You WDFW for another Mis-management of funds
there used to be a kokanee hatchery on the lake but it was closed when the owner of the resort passed.
Post by: splitshot on April 02, 2015, 08:30:46 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 04, 2015, 08:12:41 PM
April 04,2015
To Whom This may Concern:
Washington Dept. of Fisheries & Wildlife
Subject: Depriving the Sportsman of a resource.
It appears that the WDFW has not made the best use of Sportsman Dollars in the stocking of Kokanee in Eastern Washington. For the last 4 years stocked a disproportional amount of Kokanee fry in a lake that has no public access since from what I can tell is in the year 2011. This lake is Chapman in South Spokane county.
My understanding is that the Family has chose to lock the gates and deny access to Sportsman. The WDFW has worked on securing a launch but from everything I can find the talks have stalled and therefore a mute point.
My question since Sportsman Dollars fund the raising of fish to be planted in the lakes. Why are we funding a Private Fishery to the extent of a 100,000 fry a year in this lake.
This resource is to be accessible to the sportsman to harvest. The amount of Kokanees planted in the 3 counties of Stevens, Pend Oreille, and Spokane. These are the areas I researched .
According to the 2015 statistics of the http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/plants/statewide/ (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/plants/statewide/)
http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01705/wdfw01705.pdf (http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01705/wdfw01705.pdf)
The Kokanees Stockings were:
Pend Oreille County: No fish
Stevens County: Deep Lake 15,000 Fry
Loon Lake 70,000 Fry
Pierre Lake 10,000 Fry
Spokane County: Chapman Lake 104,880 Fry with No Public Access
This is 33% more fish than planted in Loon Which is advertised as a top Kokanee fishery in Eastern Washington.
In the 2014 Stocking Stats: http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01582/wdfw01582.pdf (http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01582/wdfw01582.pdf)
Kokanee Stocking were:
Pend Oreille County: No Fish
Stevens County: Deep Lake 25,000 Fry
Deer Lake 25,000 Put and Take
Loon Lake 50,000 Fry
Spokane County: Chapman Lake: 100,000 Fry with no public access
This is 50% more fish than planted in Loon as well.
In the 2013 Stocking Stats: http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01489/wdfw01489.pdf (http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01489/wdfw01489.pdf)
Kokanee Stocking were:
Pend Oreille County: Davis Lake 25,000 Fry
Stevens Count: Deep Lake 34,000 Fry
Deer Lake 25,000 Put and Take
Loon Lake 100,000 Fry
Spokane County: Chapman Lake 100,000 Fry
In the 2012 Stocking Stats: http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01376/wdfw01376.pdf (http://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01376/wdfw01376.pdf)
Pend Oreille County: No Fish
Stevens County: Deer Lake 25,000 Fry
Loon Lake 100,000 Fry
Spokane County: Chapman Lake 100,000 Fry
It seems that you have deprived the Sportsman of the State of Washington over 400,000 fish that should have been available to them and not to a Private fishery with no public access. You have also deprived the Local communities of the money that would have been spent to bolster their economy's.
When I review the link: http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/species/9008/ (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/species/9008/)
This list's all of the lakes in Washington that are supposed to have Kokanees in them; even giving a detailed fishing time frame as to when to fish;
Deer Lake in Stevens county doesn't reflect any opportunities what so ever. But back in the 1970's and 1980's Deer had a terrific Kokanee Fishery with some fish in a 3+ pound range. Davis Lake also used to have a Kokanee fishery that was remarkable.
I believe that the Sportsman of this state would be better served if the Stocking of Chapman lake was discontinued and those fish planted in lake where they will have access to this resource.
If you review the current WDFW fish Pamphlet for the years of 2014 -2015 you will find that Chapman Lake is still listed on page 86 showing the 10 fish limit along with the chumming legal disclosure and the icon showing a boat.
This what the WDFW link tells me about Chapman Lake: http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/114/ (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/114/)
I can understand that once the Private land owners closed off the access that you would have stocked it the following year in hopes of reaching an MOU for access. But since that seems to have fallen by the way side.
Thank you for your time:
I would encourage you also to contact them and share your views.
Post by: goosegetter79 on April 04, 2015, 09:04:36 PM
Post by: splitshot on April 04, 2015, 10:36:22 PM
Post by: huntnnw on April 05, 2015, 09:36:50 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 06, 2015, 05:47:10 AM
This is as close to Social Media as I get. If someone wants to post it on any Media pages I'm ok with that.
I would encourage you also to contact them (WDFW) and share your views.
Post by: huntnnw on April 06, 2015, 05:48:30 AM
Post by: huntnnw on April 06, 2015, 05:58:58 AM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 06, 2015, 06:03:02 AM
Post by: huntnnw on April 06, 2015, 06:07:17 AM
Post by: Skillet on April 06, 2015, 07:19:42 AM
Post by: L-ofalab on April 06, 2015, 08:42:42 AM
Post by: goosegetter79 on April 06, 2015, 12:02:44 PM
If there is no public access how do they get their truck in to the lake to plant the fish? Maybe we can trespass in to the lake like the game dept.
I'm guessing the owners are nice enough to unlock and open the gate for them.
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 06, 2015, 07:43:48 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 09, 2015, 07:19:28 PM
All text is in Black red doesn't seem to show up in the fields so well
Name Removed!! (To protect the Guilty) :chuckle:
Thank you for your inquiry to the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife regarding kokanee stocking in Eastern Washington. To help answer the questions you raised, I have copied parts of your email (in black italicized text) and have addressed those pieces individually (in red text). If you have additional questions or comments regarding this issue, do not hesitate to contact me.
My understanding is that the Family has chose to lock the gates and deny access to Sportsman. The WDFW has worked on securing a launch but from everything I can find the talks have stalled and therefore a mute point.
You are correct in that the Family closed the old resort and has not allowed public access for several years. However, last year WDFW submitted and presented a Boating Facilities Program (BFP) project through the Recreation and Conservation Office (RCO). The funds for these projects will be awarded in June 2015. If RCO receives the level of funding they anticipate, the Chapman Lake BFP project will receive partial funding, but not enough to conduct the entire project. The WDFW is exploring alternative funding to compliment anticipated RCO funding as to complete the project. At this point, to say that talks have stalled is inaccurate.
My question since Sportsman Dollars fund the raising of fish to be planted in the lakes. Why are we funding a Private Fishery to the extent of a 100,000 fry a year in this lake. This resource is to be accessible to the sportsman to harvest.
Chapman Lake continues to be managed by the State of Washington to have a fishery available when WDFW secures long-term access. (More on that later in this response.) In the meantime, although motorized boats cannot be launched at the boat launch in the closed resort at this time, users are entitled to access the lake via foot traffic through the neighboring Department of Natural Resources (DNR) property and fish the lake during the open season. Although not ideal circumstances, limited access is still provided until an access agreement has been reached.
It seems that you have deprived the Sportsman of the State of Washington over 400,000 fish that should have been available to them and not to a Private fishery with no public access. You have also deprived the Local communities of the money that would have been spent to bolster their economy's.
Information about WDFW fish stocking processes will help you understand that this is not the case. District Fish Biologists plan fish allotments, or the number of fish to be stocked in each water, with hatchery staff. Once allotments have been decided, hatchery staff grows the required number of fish and stock them at the appropriate time in those waters.
The other kokanee lakes in this Region, such as Deep, Loon, Deer, and Pierre, are not deprived of fish, but receive the total number of fish that the District Fish Biologist has allotted for them. If the District Fish Biologist decides, at some point in the future, to cease kokanee stocking at Chapman Lake, those fish would not be raised, divided up, and stocked into those other lakes. Rather, the biologist would instruct hatchery staff not to raise those fish to begin with.
When I review the link: http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/species/9008/ (http://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/species/9008/)
This list's all of the lakes in Washington that are supposed to have Kokanees in them; even giving a detailed fishing time frame as to when to fish; Deer Lake in Stevens county doesn't reflect any opportunities what so ever. But back in the 1970's and 1980's Deer had a terrific Kokanee Fishery with some fish in a 3+ pound range. Davis Lake also used to have a Kokanee fishery that was remarkable.
The link you provided above directs you to our Fish Washington website. You are correct in that this page includes the lakes where particular fish species, such as kokanee, can be found. On each specific lake page, the fishing calendar provides information on when anglers can expect the best fishing to occur on the most popular species found in the lake. If a lake contains a species, but that species may not be the most popular, it may not receive its own line in the calendar, but will be mentioned as another “species you might catch”. Such is the case with kokanee in Deer Lake in Stevens County. On this website, lakes such as Deer, that list kokanee as a species you might catch, does not necessarily infer that fishing will be sub-par for that species.
I believe that the Sportsman of this state would be better served if the Stocking of Chapman lake was discontinued and those fish planted in lake where they will have access to this resource.
Kokanee populations are different than trout populations in that there is at least a two-year lag time between when kokanee fry are stocked, and when they grow large enough to be caught by anglers. Because of that fact, it is important to maintain consistent kokanee year class strength. One or two missing year classes could result in gaps in the fishery that would be extremely hard, if not impossible, to recover.
At this point in time, WDFW remains optimistic that anglers will have motorized boat access to Chapman Lake in the future. The kokanee that are stocked into Chapman Lake are fairly small (~200 fish per pound) and require little cost to raise (less than 2 cents per fish). This is a relatively low cost to ensure that when access is regained, an intact kokanee fishery will be present for anglers to enjoy. The WDFW has already suspended trout stocking in that lake. If public access cannot be worked out, kokanee stocking would also be suspended. As noted earlier, if kokanee stocking were discontinued at Chapman Lake, those fish would not be added to any other lake, but would simply not be raised in our hatchery to begin with.
Again, thank you for your inquiry.
Regards,
Randall Osborne
District 2 Fisheries Biologist
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife
2315 N. Discovery Place
Spokane Valley, WA 99216
(509) 892-1001 ext. 302
trout_westwa - Copy
www.wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/ (http://www.wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/)
Reply With Quote
Post by: quadrafire on April 23, 2015, 09:16:55 AM
http://www.spokesman.com/outdoors/stories/2015/apr/23/public-access-issues-remain-for-chapman-lake/
Post by: Skillet on April 23, 2015, 09:26:50 AM
By the way, I would kill to see the budget that says they can produce kokanee fry for $.02 each. I will guarantee you there are no fixed operating costs figured into that... that's like saying all of your deer and elk meat only costs you what you paid for the bullet (or arrow, if it is lost) itself.
Post by: goosegetter79 on April 23, 2015, 11:02:53 AM
Good to know that there are only a select few able to fish for Kokanee as I am pretty sure that's the only way I've heard of catching Kokanee but they continue to stock it. Why not stop stocking it until there is access then continue stocking it and maybe shut down fishing for Kokanee until the Kokanee are fishable.
Post by: quadrafire on April 23, 2015, 11:44:50 AM
read the article in the spokesman they touch on that
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 23, 2015, 04:23:46 PM
Thank you Ridgeratt for getting this back in the public's eye! :tup:
By the way, I would kill to see the budget that says they can produce kokanee fry for $.02 each. I will guarantee you there are no fixed operating costs figured into that... that's like saying all of your deer and elk meat only costs you what you paid for the bullet (or arrow, if it is lost) itself.
I really didn't do much but pose a question to them.
I find it more interesting that Rich Landers replied that there was no story. Guess maybe there was!! :chuckle:
I am considering perhaps going into the witness protection program. :chuckle:
If I am never heard from again I might be Kokanee Food or used to feed the mythical wolves we have in this state.
I can hope that they resolve this in a timely manner.
Post by: Skillet on April 23, 2015, 04:36:35 PM
Been nice knowing ya! :hello:
Post by: zike on April 23, 2015, 04:39:47 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 23, 2015, 04:40:03 PM
No they have quit stocking trout since there isn't an access.
Read the news paper article.
Post by: Alchase on April 23, 2015, 04:41:54 PM
Post by: Oldguy on April 23, 2015, 05:08:03 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 23, 2015, 05:27:33 PM
Lake Samish near Bellingham has Kokanee fishing and property owners who don't like their lake overused. There were plans to modernize the boat launch with two ramps and a dock between. The property owners lobbied the state and got the project cut back to one ramp and no dock to keep usage down. Then the "Invasive Species" inspection was instituted with an annual fee and inspection for each launch. If the public launch, which the property owners rely on for their needs doesn't fill the bill for sportsmen, close it and cease planting fish for a private fishery. Kind of like the Nooksack elk situation; plant the elk in an area with little open land and let the road kills and eventual wolf packs take care of the problem.
Why is it their lake? If sportsman dollars fund the planting of fish in it. I think it makes it "Our Lake"
They just happen to own property on it. I would encourage you to not let that one get away.
Post by: L-ofalab on April 26, 2015, 12:34:53 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 26, 2015, 01:33:51 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 02, 2018, 10:21:25 AM
Checking the Stocking for 2018. The WDFW planted once again 100,000 fry in this lake. :bash: :bash: :bash:
https://wdfw.wa.gov/publications/01975/wdfw01975.pdf
I understand the cost of the fry are a minimal part. Once again the WDFW has misrepresented themselves to the Sportsman and Sportswoman of this state. This falls right in line with other parts of the department that also colors the truth.
This makes close to 3/4 of a million fish that the sportsman are unable to access since 2013.
https://wdfw.wa.gov/fishing/washington/114/ Still shows no access
Post by: quadrafire on April 02, 2018, 10:44:46 AM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 02, 2018, 10:53:05 AM
Can it be accessed by float tube/pontoon? If you could carry in. Seems like I remember a hiking trail on SW side?
That's does no good when your hoping on floating a Hewescraft.
http://www.northwestfishingreports.com/Content/Files/BathymetricMaps/7214_53.gif
Post by: E-10 on April 02, 2018, 11:24:29 AM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 02, 2018, 09:15:16 PM
I heard a rumor that WDFW had purchased the Chapmen resort from the family, as well as a previously planned alternative access tract of land, is there any truth to this? And if so when can the Washington sportsman and sportswomen expect to be granted access to the lake we have paid through license fees and tax dollars to stock for the last 5+ years?
If you could predict this you should be able to hit any lotto in the world. :twocents:
Post by: T-Bone on April 03, 2018, 07:05:36 AM
I recall a drive-by at the start of all this crap and witnessing some locals taking the DNR/State signs off the walk-in easement gate to transfer to their lockout road gate or just plain destroy. These signs have never been replaced by the DNR. Days after, someone took a chain and pulled down the road block gate.
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 04, 2018, 09:23:28 AM
I guess I'll believe when I see it with access to Chapman Lake. A few years ago WDFW sent me a Email acting like the deed was close to being done and what I would like to see? I requested some consideration for shore fishermen with a possible easement to the neighboring DNR land.
I recall a drive-by at the start of all this crap and witnessing some locals taking the DNR/State signs off the walk-in easement gate to transfer to their lockout road gate or just plain destroy. These signs have never been replaced by the DNR. Days after, someone took a chain and pulled down the road block gate.
Using ONX maps the property surrounding the DNR is owned by the same folks who control the land where the resort used to be.
Kaplan, Neeley,Ficere on the north end it's Bell. I would guess thats why they are pulling down the signage.
And true to form the WDFW releases the majority of the kokanee in a lake with no public access.
Post by: T-Bone on April 04, 2018, 01:10:08 PM
Post by: E-10 on April 04, 2018, 07:29:45 PM
(http://)
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 04, 2018, 07:53:17 PM
E-10 I would like to thank you for taking the interest in this to try to get solution.
Post by: E-10 on April 05, 2018, 05:32:28 AM
https://secure.rco.wa.gov/prism/search/ProjectSnapshot.aspx?ProjectNumber=16-2313 (https://secure.rco.wa.gov/prism/search/ProjectSnapshot.aspx?ProjectNumber=16-2313)
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 05, 2018, 05:42:39 AM
But then says completion of 01/2021.
I have to give you credit!! Your a persistent little fella. :chuckle: :chuckle: :chuckle:
Post by: nwwanderer on April 05, 2018, 05:59:13 AM
Post by: T-Bone on April 06, 2018, 05:54:16 AM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 07, 2018, 09:02:03 AM
Post by: E-10 on April 07, 2018, 09:59:51 AM
Quote
That appears they are going to start this next month.
But then says completion of 01/2021.
Not really sure why it will take three years to drop in a containment tank, pour or place a prefab a launch. grade and pave a parking lot or two, construct a picnic shelter and float a lego dock. There is already a road and mostly level site at the old launch site. Even if they demolish and haul every building on site (accounting for abatement if necessary) Design, bidding process, demo, and construction should take less than six months.
Post by: E-10 on April 07, 2018, 10:56:59 AM
Post by: E-10 on April 07, 2018, 11:35:27 AM
https://secure.rco.wa.gov/prism/search/ProjectSnapshotAttachmentData.aspx?id=293347 (https://secure.rco.wa.gov/prism/search/ProjectSnapshotAttachmentData.aspx?id=293347)
Post by: Ghost Hunter on April 08, 2018, 07:32:29 PM
Once maybe. :chuckle: Are you up to dragging the boat in?
E-10 I would like to thank you for taking the interest in this to try to get solution.
3/4 mile, 65# canoe + gear. Add a battery and trolling motor. Sounds like a group effort. :fishin: would have to make a weekend of it.
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 11, 2018, 02:45:08 PM
Once maybe. :chuckle: Are you up to dragging the boat in?
E-10 I would like to thank you for taking the interest in this to try to get solution.
3/4 mile, 65# canoe + gear. Add a battery and trolling motor. Sounds like a group effort. :fishin: would have to make a weekend of it.
For young guys dragging the canoe in is not a problem. But for the more senior types. I'm thinking numerous rest's stops along the trip.
In the RCO I see a WDFW official holding a sample of the kind of bass I remember fishing for.
I guess we could maybe take my smaller boat. But still gonna be a chore and I'm not sure you will fish out of it E-10.
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 12, 2018, 05:28:03 PM
Used to calf rope them. A Jitterbug just slow trolled alone the rocks in the early evening or after dark.
Perhaps the next state record is swimming in there.
Post by: quadrafire on April 12, 2018, 06:46:22 PM
Several years!!!!!
Excited to get on the water
Post by: E-10 on April 12, 2018, 08:05:16 PM
Post by: Ridgeratt on April 12, 2018, 09:05:40 PM
I bet these monsters are pulled up to the feeding trough when the WDFW truck pulls up with the 100,000 Koke fry each year.
Just like the Golden Corral on all you can eat senior's day. Just imagine them swimming up to the buffet with a walker. They might not even have many teeth left.
Post by: E-10 on April 12, 2018, 09:35:12 PM
Quote
Quote from: E-10 on Today at 08:05:16 PM
I bet these monsters are pulled up to the feeding trough when the WDFW truck pulls up with the 100,000 Koke fry each year.
Just like the Golden Corral on all you can eat senior's day. Just imagine them swimming up to the buffet with a walker. They might not even have many teeth left.
:chuckle: :yeah:
Post by: Skillet on April 12, 2018, 09:55:32 PM
I remember fish like these in the lake back in the late 70's and early 80's and appears they are still there.
Used to calf rope them. A Jitterbug just slow trolled alone the rocks in the early evening or after dark.
Perhaps the next state record is swimming in there.
Hula popper under a decent moon worked for us. Love those topwater explosions at night!
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 19, 2019, 12:02:07 PM
Long-closed Chapman Lake, a popular trout, bass, kokanee fishing spot, may reopen
Thu., Dec. 19, 2019
By Eli Francovich
elif@spokesman.com
(509) 459-5508
Eight years after public access to a popular trout, bass and kokanee lake south of Cheney closed, wildlife managers are still striving to reopen it.
“We are not turning our back on Chapman Lake,” said Randall Osborne, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife district fisheries biologist. “They don’t make lakes anymore. This is a 120-acre lake that has a good fishery in it. And we have not exhausted all of our options yet.”
The newest effort could mean WDFW buys Washington Department of Natural Resources’ land along the lake. WDFW is asking for public input on the proposal, one of 18 projects statewide open to public comment through Jan. 3.
“This is an opportunity to comment on proposals in the early stages of our strategic thinking,” said Cynthia Wilkerson, WDFW lands division manager in a news release.
“Our goal is to protect land and water for people and wildlife throughout the state while preserving natural and cultural heritage.”
The Chapman Lake saga started in 2011 when owners of the former Chapman Lake Resort locked the gates on the only road access to the 128-acre lake. Starting in 2014, Osborne and the WDFW worked out an agreement with the resort owner: The agency would buy the land. In 2015, it received $474,000 from the Washington Recreation and Conservation office for the purchase.
In 2016, owner Gene Kaplan died. During the estate settling process “everything came to a screeching halt,” Osborne said.
Once the dust settled, the former resort land was no longer available to buy, so WDFW started talking to DNR.
Although the only drive-up public access was through the resort land, DNR owns more than 500 acres around the lake. The public can access the lake by foot through that property, but there is no road or boat put in.
WDFW has located a spot where a boat ramp and parking area could be built, but it’s no easy feat.
“It’s difficult because everything out there is pretty much basalt cliffs,” Osborne said. “And that’s what made the old place so attractive because it was ready made.”
WDFW is seeing if the money allocated by the RCO office in 2015 can still be used. If so, WDFW would buy a 22 1/2-acre parcel from DNR and build a parking lot and ramp using the RCO money. The agency hopes to buy or trade for the remaining DNR land.
The proposal is supported by the Spokane County Commissioners, the Inland Empire Fly Fishing Club and the Spokane Fly Fishers. In 2014, when the original purchase was being considered, public comment showed overwhelming support with nearly 200 comments supporting the project. Only one comment was against the WDFW acquisition, Osborne said.
WDFW has continued to stock kokanee in the lake since 2011. This has puzzled some anglers who wonder why the state is spending money on a lake that does not have good public access.
“Ever since the resort closed, WDFW has had high hopes of restoring access,” Osborne said. “And because of that, we have remained stocking the lake with kokanee.”
Unlike other species, kokanee have a lag time of a year or two before they’re fishable, he said. Any gaps in the kokanee population can allow other fish to take hold. With each kokanee fry costing under 2 cents to stock, the benefit of continuing to stock outweighs any costs.
WDFW stopped stocking trout, which don’t have the same development lag as kokanee, after the owner locked the gate.
“We want to make sure this fishery is in place,” Osborne said. “Optimistically saying when public access gets restored.”
For Charles Layton, 75, that can’t happen soon enough. Layton, who lives in Spangle, first started fishing Chapman Lake in 1948 with his grandparents.
“Now, I’d like to take my grandkids down there,” he said. “But it’s closed.”
https://www.swxrightnow.com/stories/2019/dec/19/long-closed-chapman-lake-a-popular-trout-bass-koka/
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 19, 2019, 12:14:00 PM
Post by: Gobble Doc on December 19, 2019, 12:23:46 PM
Post by: outdooraddict on December 19, 2019, 12:46:07 PM
Post by: Fishmaker57 on December 19, 2019, 03:06:36 PM
I remember fish like these in the lake back in the late 70's and early 80's and appears they are still there.
Used to calf rope them. A Jitterbug just slow trolled alone the rocks in the early evening or after dark.
Perhaps the next state record is swimming in there.
Fun using an electro shocker boat at night for bass.....always turn a few huge ones!
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 20, 2019, 09:31:00 PM
I remember fish like these in the lake back in the late 70's and early 80's and appears they are still there.
Used to calf rope them. A Jitterbug just slow trolled alone the rocks in the early evening or after dark.
Perhaps the next state record is swimming in there.
Fun using an electro shocker boat at night for bass.....always turn a few huge ones!
Fishmaker57 do you know the person in the photo?
Post by: Fishmaker57 on December 21, 2019, 06:54:22 AM
Post by: nwwanderer on December 21, 2019, 07:34:34 AM
Post by: E-10 on December 22, 2019, 12:31:32 AM
It comes to mind that
(1) the greedy sister might not think the property is that valuable if WDFW killed the lake or just let it die.
(2) WDFW could stop stocking the lake that all but a few have access to. WDFW has annually stocked Chapman with 100,000 fry/fingerlings, 10 times the amount stocked for other lakes of similar size. Loon lake/Stevens County only receives 90,000 but is 8-9 times larger than Chapman. Why???
(3) WDFW could partner with DNR or purchase access from them for the usual $1.00 and use the $474,000 plus monies put aside for the Chapman Resort facility development and improvements to blast some of the cliffs, excavate and pour a ramp, build a launch dock, and fishing deck, land a concrete toilet on site and grade and pave a road and parking lot. Just like the plans already drawn up for the resort site.
Some will say there is only $474,000 but that was the money set aside several years ago to purchase the resort. WDFW also had money for improvements and site development at the old resort location.
And I know they say the fry only cost .02 a piece, but I'd really like to see some data to support that. After food, electricity for pumps and filtration, hatchery staff, biologists, trucks, fuel, drivers, insurance, maintenance and other incidentals, I can't imagine it's only .02 per fry. And even if it is, that's $2,000 per year, or $16,000 total that could have gone to benefit other lakes.
Come on already, it's been eight years. Let's put a plan together and move forward to make this lake accessible to everyone.
Post by: Ghost Hunter on December 22, 2019, 07:17:15 AM
Post by: HUNTIN4SIX on December 22, 2019, 07:41:44 AM
WUmmmm...that would be smart...spend $100K+ on a lake rehab, but get upset over a couple thousand a year? You lost me, keep doing your research, and maybe the truth will find you. :twocents: no pun intended....well maybe a little :chuckle:
(1) the greedy sister might not think the property is that valuable if WDFW killed the lake or just let it die.
Post by: E-10 on December 22, 2019, 09:08:07 AM
There is "limited access" from DNR property next to the old resort, but the locals keep taking the signs down that indicate where that access is. And once you get to the lake, you're essentially fishing off a cliff.
And good luck getting your young or special needs children, grandparents, or disabled veterans to the waters edge, the foot path is very primitive.
Another member on this site spoke to one of those lucky enough to live on Chapman, and according to him, he has caught so many Kokanee it is impossible to do legally during the fishing season. Game wardens have no access either, so I guess regs are out, and you can harvest as many fish as you want.
WUmmmm...that would be smart...spend $100K+ on a lake rehab, but get upset over a couple thousand a year? You lost me, keep doing your research, and maybe the truth will find you. :twocents: no pun intended....well maybe a little :chuckle:
(1) the greedy sister might not think the property is that valuable if WDFW killed the lake or just let it die.
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 22, 2019, 09:28:14 AM
There is "limited access" from DNR property next to the old resort, but the locals keep taking the signs down that indicate where that access is. And once you get to the lake, you're essentially fishing off a cliff.
And good luck getting your young or special needs children, grandparents, or disabled veterans to the waters edge, the foot path is very primitive.
Another member on this site spoke to one of those lucky enough to live on Chapman, and according to him, he has caught so many Kokanee it is impossible to do legally during the fishing season. Game wardens have no access either, so I guess regs are out, and you can harvest as many fish as you want.
This link shows the topo if I could find enough folks we could pack my hewescraft to the lake . After that getting to the water might be a bit sporty launching.
https://www.google.com/maps/place/11011+W+Chapman+Lake+Rd,+Cheney,+WA+99004/@47.3555817,-117.5760031,1436m/data=!3m1!1e3!4m5!3m4!1s0x549e495a041c4ab3:0x4ca77c68a2fc0dcc!8m2!3d47.3513135!4d-117.5619798
The topo shows the small community of residences behind the locked gate.
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 22, 2019, 09:43:28 AM
When Ollie was alive he had a Kokanee hatchery right on the lake. I can't say but I think he paid all the expenses for raising them. Might have been .02 cents then but you could also rent a boat for a dollar if memory serves. Gas should have been around .60 cents a gallon also. :chuckle:
Post by: Nwgunner on December 22, 2019, 08:05:15 PM
Maybe I lost you... WDFW hasn't spent a dime on "lake rehab" or site development, they have however spent several thousands of yours and my license fees a year for 8 years to maintain a public lake that for the most part is only accessible to a VERY select few individuals that live on the lake, or are friendly with property owners.
There is "limited access" from DNR property next to the old resort, but the locals keep taking the signs down that indicate where that access is. And once you get to the lake, you're essentially fishing off a cliff.
And good luck getting your young or special needs children, grandparents, or disabled veterans to the waters edge, the foot path is very primitive.
Another member on this site spoke to one of those lucky enough to live on Chapman, and according to him, he has caught so many Kokanee it is impossible to do legally during the fishing season. Game wardens have no access either, so I guess regs are out, and you can harvest as many fish as you want.
WUmmmm...that would be smart...spend $100K+ on a lake rehab, but get upset over a couple thousand a year? You lost me, keep doing your research, and maybe the truth will find you. :twocents: no pun intended....well maybe a little :chuckle:
(1) the greedy sister might not think the property is that valuable if WDFW killed the lake or just let it die.
Post by: Nwgunner on December 22, 2019, 08:21:31 PM
Maybe I lost you... WDFW hasn't spent a dime on "lake rehab" or site development, they have however spent several thousands of yours and my license fees a year for 8 years to maintain a public lake that for the most part is only accessible to a VERY select few individuals that live on the lake, or are friendly with property owners.
There is "limited access" from DNR property next to the old resort, but the locals keep taking the signs down that indicate where that access is. And once you get to the lake, you're essentially fishing off a cliff.
And good luck getting your young or special needs children, grandparents, or disabled veterans to the waters edge, the foot path is very primitive.
Another member on this site spoke to one of those lucky enough to live on Chapman, and according to him, he has caught so many Kokanee it is impossible to do legally during the fishing season. Game wardens have no access either, so I guess regs are out, and you can harvest as many fish as you want.
WUmmmm...that would be smart...spend $100K+ on a lake rehab, but get upset over a couple thousand a year? You lost me, keep doing your research, and maybe the truth will find you. :twocents: no pun intended....well maybe a little :chuckle:
(1) the greedy sister might not think the property is that valuable if WDFW killed the lake or just let it die.
Its surrounded by state land (except for the resort property) so its not just accessible to a select few or friends of property owners, its open to everyone. And there is a defined access point, however there is limited parking and I do believe that the signs get removed from time to time.
I was out there last year hunting late elk muzzie and ran into 2 others hunting that small piece of property that used the exact same access as me.
As far as getting to the lake... no the disabled, old, or real young cant reach it and that's a shame. But for others that don't mind a little hike the solitude that it can offer is a payoff. Cliffs are a real issue and from what I encountered only two areas on public ground can you reach the waters edge.
I too would like to see the state find a solution to provide better access, but it is not inaccessible at this moment to anyone that is capable of a "small" hike.
Post by: E-10 on December 22, 2019, 08:25:59 PM
(https://hunting-washington.com/smf/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=172832.0;attach=479252)
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 23, 2019, 09:24:11 AM
Its surrounded by state land (except for the resort property) so its not just accessible to a select few or friends of property owners, its open to everyone. And there is a defined access point, however there is limited parking and I do believe that the signs get removed from time to time.
I was out there last year hunting late elk muzzie and ran into 2 others hunting that small piece of property that used the exact same access as me.
As far as getting to the lake... no the disabled, old, or real young cant reach it and that's a shame. But for others that don't mind a little hike the solitude that it can offer is a payoff. Cliffs are a real issue and from what I encountered only two areas on public ground can you reach the waters edge.
I too would like to see the state find a solution to provide better access, but it is not inaccessible at this moment to anyone that is capable of a "small" hike.
Nw When I check Onyx Maps they show only section 36 is not private owned. That would be the yellow lines in E-10 post. Granted a person is able to walk to the lake and access the lake But I have never had any luck catching Kokanee's from the beach. The idea of portaging a boat across the scab rock is less that ideal. I'm wondering just what shape it will arrive at the launch site as well.
During the muzzle loader season I rode as an adviser for my son and the signs were removed at the road. I also question getting any type of craft over, under, or thru the fence with out some kind of damage to both the fence and the craft.
A small hike is not a straight line in any form.
Post by: Machias on December 23, 2019, 11:00:15 AM
Post by: Ghost Hunter on December 23, 2019, 12:24:23 PM
Its surrounded by state land (except for the resort property) so its not just accessible to a select few or friends of property owners, its open to everyone. And there is a defined access point, however there is limited parking and I do believe that the signs get removed from time to time.
I was out there last year hunting late elk muzzie and ran into 2 others hunting that small piece of property that used the exact same access as me.
As far as getting to the lake... no the disabled, old, or real young cant reach it and that's a shame. But for others that don't mind a little hike the solitude that it can offer is a payoff. Cliffs are a real issue and from what I encountered only two areas on public ground can you reach the waters edge.
I too would like to see the state find a solution to provide better access, but it is not inaccessible at this moment to anyone that is capable of a "small" hike.
Nw When I check Onyx Maps they show only section 36 is not private owned. That would be the yellow lines in E-10 post. Granted a person is able to walk to the lake and access the lake But I have never had any luck catching Kokanee's from the beach. The idea of portaging a boat across the scab rock is less that ideal. I'm wondering just what shape it will arrive at the launch site as well.
During the muzzle loader season I rode as an adviser for my son and the signs were removed at the road. I also question getting any type of craft over, under, or thru the fence with out some kind of damage to both the fence and the craft.
A small hike is not a straight line in any form.
Marked out a 'reasonable' route on Onx. Looks like .9 mile scramble would do it. If fishing is that good, and I could pickup a couple of fat tire/wheel combo to throw together a decent canoe cart, I'd be up to the challenge with a strong partner or two. Canoe, Optimum gel cell battery, trolling motor, beverages, and fishing gear shouldn't go much over 350 pounds. What's the closest camping?
Post by: walt on December 23, 2019, 01:45:24 PM
Its surrounded by state land (except for the resort property) so its not just accessible to a select few or friends of property owners, its open to everyone. And there is a defined access point, however there is limited parking and I do believe that the signs get removed from time to time.
I was out there last year hunting late elk muzzie and ran into 2 others hunting that small piece of property that used the exact same access as me.
As far as getting to the lake... no the disabled, old, or real young cant reach it and that's a shame. But for others that don't mind a little hike the solitude that it can offer is a payoff. Cliffs are a real issue and from what I encountered only two areas on public ground can you reach the waters edge.
I too would like to see the state find a solution to provide better access, but it is not inaccessible at this moment to anyone that is capable of a "small" hike.
Nw When I check Onyx Maps they show only section 36 is not private owned. That would be the yellow lines in E-10 post. Granted a person is able to walk to the lake and access the lake But I have never had any luck catching Kokanee's from the beach. The idea of portaging a boat across the scab rock is less that ideal. I'm wondering just what shape it will arrive at the launch site as well.
During the muzzle loader season I rode as an adviser for my son and the signs were removed at the road. I also question getting any type of craft over, under, or thru the fence with out some kind of damage to both the fence and the craft.
A small hike is not a straight line in any form.
Marked out a 'reasonable' route on Onx. Looks like .9 mile scramble would do it. If fishing is that good, and I could pickup a couple of fat tire/wheel combo to throw together a decent canoe cart, I'd be up to the challenge with a strong partner or two. Canoe, Optimum gel cell battery, trolling motor, beverages, and fishing gear shouldn't go much over 350 pounds. What's the closest camping?
The walk in isn't bad. I've carried a float tube in a couple of times and have hiked all over in there. If they opened the gate you could drive the old roads all the way to the lake. It's mostly cliffs along the south shore of the DNR ground with one decent place to get down to the water and launch. We planned to carry in the kayaks and paddle board but didn't get around to it this summer, maybe next year. Parking is very limited, just a couple of pull-outs along the county road. The closest campground is probably at Williams Lake but I'm pretty sure you could throw a tent anywhere on the DNR land there at Chapman.
Post by: Ridgeratt on December 23, 2019, 03:56:58 PM
Marked out a 'reasonable' route on Onx. Looks like .9 mile scramble would do it. If fishing is that good, and I could pickup a couple of fat tire/wheel combo to throw together a decent canoe cart, I'd be up to the challenge with a strong partner or two. Canoe, Optimum gel cell battery, trolling motor, beverages, and fishing gear shouldn't go much over 350 pounds. What's the closest camping?
Not sure if anyone can speak for the fishing since it has been non-accessable for over 8 years. But since the WDFW plants more Kokanee in this lake than the other lakes I suspect it would be good. The Bass should be stellar. (They used to be)
But it would maybe benefit you to instead of trying to get on this until they resolve it. Just over the hill from you is Curlew that also has Kokanee, Tiger Muskies, and Bass. If you like perch last year they were going just short of 13 inches thru the hard water. You also can drive to the lake and launch and there are places to camp. Another plus to Curlew is the time your going to be fishing it you won't be wandering around the sage brush looking for rattler snakes on your way in.
Post by: Ghost Hunter on December 23, 2019, 05:04:13 PM
Marked out a 'reasonable' route on Onx. Looks like .9 mile scramble would do it. If fishing is that good, and I could pickup a couple of fat tire/wheel combo to throw together a decent canoe cart, I'd be up to the challenge with a strong partner or two. Canoe, Optimum gel cell battery, trolling motor, beverages, and fishing gear shouldn't go much over 350 pounds. What's the closest camping?
Not sure if anyone can speak for the fishing since it has been non-accessable for over 8 years. But since the WDFW plants more Kokanee in this lake than the other lakes I suspect it would be good. The Bass should be stellar. (They used to be)
But it would maybe benefit you to instead of trying to get on this until they resolve it. Just over the hill from you is Curlew that also has Kokanee, Tiger Muskies, and Bass. If you like perch last year they were going just short of 13 inches thru the hard water. You also can drive to the lake and launch and there are places to camp. Another plus to Curlew is the time your going to be fishing it you won't be wandering around the sage brush looking for rattler snakes on your way in.
Might have to resurrect that option. Got some good memories spending time on Curlew Lake years ago. Had an old wooden runabout that I restored. Mainly fished the south end. Had to replace the shear pin one trip while navigating thru the narrow pass into the main lake. Don't know that we ever targeted the kokes?
Post by: walt on January 04, 2024, 06:53:01 AM
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/news/board-natural-resources-approves-transfer-chapman-lake-lands-department-fish-and-wildlife
Post by: Ridgeratt on January 04, 2024, 07:16:29 AM
They still plant a 1k fry in chapman ever year and have continued to since the access was shutoff when they closed Ole's.
Post by: walt on January 04, 2024, 07:27:27 AM