by James Cummings, March 23, 2002

Sage Lakes: Why pick the Sage Lakes in an area of 60 plus other seep lakes below Potholes Reservoir? Would you believe to hunt tigers? Yes, tiger trout, a cross between eastern brook and brown trout, reputed to be a very beautiful fish. Although colorful tigers are caught, the catch is predominately very fat rainbows.



A solid rainbow caught from the Sage Lakes.

These two little ponds of about 6 acres each are very rich in aquatic insects promoting rapid growth of the tigers and rainbows. Cast a night crawler and marshmallow from shore and you could be one of the lucky ones to land a tiger. Spinning with a night crawler tipped Roostertail will also bring strikes. Patience is the key word here, as getting a bite can take some time but the reward is usually worth the wait.

While waiting for that large rainbow or tiger to chow down on your bait or lure, there are plenty of birds to observe in the Potholes area this time of year. Curlew nest nearby and sandhill cranes gather to feed while migrating north. Ducks and geese crisscross the sky all day long. Magpies and redwing blackbirds search the sagebrush and shoreline for insects.

Take Highway 17 south from Moses Lake, turning left at O’Sullivan Dam road. Go approximately three miles to the entrance of the seep lakes on the left, and then follow this gravel road to Long Lake and Sage Lakes. Local accommodations include Potholes Reservoir State Park with full hookups for RVs and Mar Don Resort with full hookups, a restaurant, motel, and store featuring an ample supply of fishing tackle and advice.




The Sage Lakes.

From the Desk of the Troutfisherman

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