In an astonishing feat this summer, a man from the Pacific Northwest raked in a remarkable $159,310 through a unique fishing initiative in Washington and Oregon. This impressive sum marks the second-highest payout ever received by a participant in the annual Northern Pikeminnow Sport Reward Program, only trailing behind last year's record of just over $164,000 awarded to one exceptional angler.
Described by Eric Winther, a program manager with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, as the "Michael Jordan of pikeminnow fishing," this top earner showcased not just skill but also dedication. In total, he managed to catch 15,715 pikeminnows, while the top twenty participants averaged around 4,131 catches each, leading to substantial reward payments averaging $41,723.
The program is funded by the Bonneville Power Association, which aims to mitigate the negative effects that hydroelectric dams have on salmon populations in the Columbia and Snake rivers. Pikeminnows are known for their aggressive consumption of juvenile salmon and steelhead, devouring millions of these fish each year, making this initiative crucial for the ecosystem.
So how did this individual secure the top bounty? While the program keeps its participants' identities confidential, Winther revealed some insights into the techniques employed by the leader of the 2025 season. First and foremost, commitment is key. He dedicated himself fully to fishing, living aboard his boat throughout the five-month fishing period. Although owning a boat is not a requirement for participation, it significantly enhances the ability to locate the large schools of pikeminnows needed for maximum payouts.
"Pikeminnows are relatively easy to catch but finding them consistently can be a challenge," Winther explained. The top angler has a wealth of experience, having spent 25 years honing his skills and meticulously tracking various factors such as water temperature, level, wind conditions, and barometric pressure that influence fishing success.
Professionally, he works as a pipefitter and has transformed his boat into what Winther describes as the "Batmobile of pikeminnow fishing." His enhancements include night lighting, solar charging capabilities, extra batteries, and an electric trolling motor to streamline operations compared to traditional anchoring methods. Typically, the best times for fishing are during sunrise, sunset, and even at night, when pikeminnows are most active.
Since the inception of the program, more than 5.3 million predatory northern pikeminnows have been removed, contributing to a significant estimated 40% decrease in predation on juvenile salmonids compared to levels before the program started. The program offers a tiered reward system: anglers earn $6 for their first 25 fish, $8 for catches up to 200, and $10 for any fish caught beyond that mark. Additionally, Oregon utilizes internal tags valued at $200 for anglers, while Washington features select fish with external tags worth $500. Although this top earner didn’t capture any fish with external tags, he did reel in several with internal tags.
The fishing season runs from May to September, although some locations open a week or two earlier to accommodate anglers following the migratory patterns of spring salmon smelt. Early spring fishing near the Tri-Cities, particularly around the Yakima River's mouth, can be especially fruitful before the runoff begins. Popular spots like Bateman Island attract many anglers due to the high concentration of pikeminnows in the spring, especially downstream from dams like Ice Harbor Dam, where they gather to feed on lingering smolts.
The program's objective is not to eradicate northern pikeminnows, as they are native to the region; rather, it seeks to manage predator-sized individuals to tilt the population balance towards smaller fish, which pose less of a threat to young salmon and steelhead.
As of 2025, a total of 12,625 anglers registered for the program, with participants averaging just under 12 pikeminnows per day. With predictions of low water levels in the rivers this upcoming season, Winther is optimistic about another successful year ahead.
For those interested in learning more about this intriguing fishing program, officials will be present at the Tri-Cities Sportsmen Show from January 23 to 25 at the HAPO Center in Pasco, offering seminars and valuable information. Further details, including rules, regulations, and fishing tips, can be found at pikeminnow.org.
