There are several “quality” lakes in Okanogan County that are open year-round and offer particularly good fishing for trout that are larger than most in the other lakes in the region. By “quality”, I mean that these lakes have selective gear rules, which means no bait allowed, and barbless hooks. They also have a two fish limit per day with a minimum size of 14 inches. Many of them also don’t allow the use of internal combustion engines. Given the special rules and restrictions, these are very popular with fly fishers, but the use of traditional gear, like spoons and spinners with barbless hooks is allowed. Rat Lake is one of these lakes and is located just outside of the town of Brewster. It’s a short drive up the hill through the angus cattle feed lots to the parking area and boat launch. This launch is large enough to accommodate even small boats. The early spring is a probably the best time of year to fish Rat Lake I was hoping to find the ice that had formed on the lake to be gone when I checked on it last Saturday, but it’s going to be a while before it goes away.