Idaho is an angler's dream come true. With 26,000 miles of streams and rivers, and upwards of 3,000 natural lakes, Idaho is home to a variety of fish species. Many of these species are unique to Idaho. Starting in spring and going through fall, many locals pack up their poles and fly rods and wander out to take full advantage of the many fishing opportunities our state has granted us. If you're looking for your next fishing spot, it won't be too hard to find. There are simply so many places to choose from, and this guarantees a unique fishing experience every time you cast the line.
Compiled in this list are ten highly treasured fishing spots. However, for many Idahoans the best fishing spot is the one that only they know about. The real fun comes from going out and finding your own!
1. Brownlee Reservoir
Located in Cambridge, Idaho, Browlee Reservoir is 57 miles long and lies on the border between Oregon and Idaho. A variety of fish inhabit the reservoir including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, trout, blue gill, and more. Brownlee is considered the best warm water fishery in the state - all you have to do is cast a line and you catch something.
2. Big Wood River
Big Wood River is a tributary to the Snake and Columbia Rivers. The river goes on for 137 stunning miles, and is known to contain rainbow, brown, and brook trout. Its season generally runs from Memorial Day through November, but there are certain parts of the river open year-round for catch and release. This location is absolutely beautiful and is the perfect fishing getaway.
3. C.J. Strike Reservoir
This reservoir is an awesome location not just for fishing but camping, boating, hiking, you name it. There's something for the whole family at this place. It is a fairly accessible fishing spot and campground located in southwest Idaho. Fish species common here are catfish, bass, trout, perch, and crappie.
4. Fishhook Creek
This creek is for those looking for a bit of solitude. It is a bit of a hike out to get to the creek, starting at Redfish Lake Lodge. The creek is about 9 miles in length and is a tributary to Redfish Lake. Different species observed here are bull trout, cutthroat trout, chinook salmon, and sockeye salmon.
5. Little Salmon River
This tributary to the Salmon River flows for 425 miles, making it the longest flowing river in just one state in the continental United States! This is an incredibly scenic spot, with resident fish species including rainbow, cutthroat, and bull trout.
6. Lake Lowell
Lake Lowell is one of the more underrated fishing spots in the state. It is home to a variety of spaces but is considered a bass haven. The lake is located just south of Nampa, Idaho, and is known to warm up fairly early in the year, making it a great boating spot.
7. Marten Lake
This location requires approximately a five mile hike to get to. Located in the Sawtooths, the scenery is well worth the extra effort to get to the lake. The lakes crystal clear waters are home to both rainbow and bull trout. This fishing spot is great for those wanting to truly immerse themselves in the Idaho wilderness.
8. Saddleback Lakes
Saddleback Lakes contains an abundance of fish and makes for an amazing overnight fishing trip. The hike to the lake is strenuous, with an elevation gain of of 2,000 feet, but the payoff is worth it. Fishing in turquoise waters in the middle of a picturesque forest.
9. Silver Creek
Silver Creek is a must-see place, even for non-anglers! It's known for its amazing fly fishing, along with abundance of wildlife including fox, coyote, moose, elk, rabbits, waterfowl, and more. Silver Creek is located just about 25 miles north of Garden Valley, Idaho in the aptly named Peace Valley.
10. Swan Falls Dam
Located near Kuna, Idaho, the most unique aspect of this reservoir is its large quantity of sturgeon. Six foot fish (and sometimes bigger) are commonly caught here, but make sure to follow the state's regulations on how to catch and release these giants.
What's your favorite fishing spot in Idaho? Let us know!
Also, be sure to check out the best Idaho lakes here and here!
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