A Post Falls angler has set a new Idaho record after landing a Northern pike measuring 49.75 inches from Lake Pend Oreille on June 13.
Timothy Hicks caught the fish, which surpassed the previous state record by three-quarters of an inch. The prior mark, a catch-and-release record set by Scott Blahnik in 2020, stood for six years before Hicks’ achievement.
Lake Pend Oreille, which spans roughly 43,000 acres across Bonner County, has established itself as a premier destination for pike fishing in the region. The lake’s cold, deep waters and abundant forage support healthy populations of the species, making record-class fish increasingly possible as anglers refine their techniques and spend more time on the water.
Northern pike are aggressive predators that can reach substantial sizes in productive freshwater systems. Idaho Fish and Game has monitored pike populations and angler success on Pend Oreille for years, recognizing both the recreational value and the ecological role these fish play in the lake’s ecosystem.
Hicks’ record catch adds to a growing tradition of exceptional pike fishing on the lake. Prior catch-and-release pike records on Lake Pend Oreille have drawn anglers from across the region seeking to test their skills against the species.
The Idaho Department of Fish and Game maintains official records for all fish species caught within the state. Verification of record catches typically requires documentation and measurements by qualified witnesses or department staff.
Anglers interested in pike fishing on Lake Pend Oreille can find current regulations and season information through Idaho Fish and Game. The department has previously organized programs paying anglers to harvest predatory fish to manage lake populations and maintain balance among species.