The Clearwater River, with its thrilling steelhead fishing, the serene environment of the Teton Valley, and the family-friendly C.J. Strike Reservoir are all among the very best fishing spots in Idaho.
That’s truly saying something when you consider that the Gem State boasts over 26,000 miles of streams and rivers, 3,000 natural lakes, and more than a quarter of a million ponds and reservoirs.
So, what is it about the likes of Clearwater, Teton, and C.J. Strike that stands out among the countless options available?
You’ll find the answer to that question in this guide along with everything you need to know to plan the ultimate Idaho fishing trip.
Top Fishing Spots in Idaho at a Glance
Here’s a quick overview of the top fishing spots in Idaho:
- Best for Steelhead trout – Clearwater River
- Best for Yellowtone trout – Teton Valley
- Best for whitefish – Boise River
- Best for Mackinaw – Priest Lake
6 Best Fishing Spots in Idaho in Detail
1. Clearwater River – Lewiston
Renowned for its abundance of impressive “B-Run” steelhead trout, the Clearwater River runs through the heart of North-Central Idaho’s natural wilderness.
Even in the cooler fall months of steelhead season, the crisp mountain air and rushing waters make it an incredibly exciting experience, perfect for anglers with a sense of adventure.
Type of Fishing: freshwater fishing
Expect to find: Steelhead trout, chinook salmon, cutthroat trout
Rules and safety guidelines: Steelhead trout season begins in September and is catch-and-release only for the first month. Catch-and-keep is allowed from October until the end of April. Bag limits apply.
Explore Clearwater River on a map
2. Teton Valley
Surrounded by the stunning Teton Mountain Range, Teton Valley is the perfect spot for a weekend in the great outdoors.
Pitch your tent at the camping grounds and cast off into the tranquil waters for some serious trout fishing before taking in the sights along one of the many miles of hiking and biking trails around the area.
Type of Fishing: freshwater fishing
Expect to find: yellowstone, brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. Bass, tiger muskie, and whitefish can also be found.
Rules and safety guidelines: There is no limit on rainbow trout or hybrid trout. Cutthroat trout harvesting is not allowed.
Plan your trip to Teton Valley on a map
3. Boise River South Fork – Elmore County
The mighty Boise River spans 102 miles from the Sawtooth range in the Rocky Mountains to the Snake River plains, but it’s the South Fork in Southwest Idaho where you’ll find the best fishing, especially if it’s whitefish you’re after.
An adventurer’s paradise, the prime spots can be found by hiking through tranquil forests towards Anderson Ranch Dam, where jaw-dropping views of magnificent waterfalls and waters teeming with fish await.
Type of Fishing: freshwater fishing, fly fishing
Expect to find: whitefish, trout, kokanee
Rules and safety guidelines: No bait is allowed. Only one barbless hook per fly or lure is permissible. Bag limits and season restrictions apply.
See more of the Boise River South Fork on a map.
4. Priest Lake
Looking for Idaho’s most crystal-clear waters and serene surroundings? You’ll find them at Priest Lake.
Known as Idaho’s Crown Jewel, the lake offers camping, boating, hiking, and more, making it the perfect spot for a family getaway.
Meanwhile, those pristine waters are home to prize-worthy Mackinaw, with the plentiful streams flowing into the river also presenting ample opportunities to catch brook trout.
Type of Fishing: freshwater fishing, boat fishing, fly fishing
Expect to find: Mackinaw, Brook trout,
Rules and safety guidelines: Fishing in Priest Lake is limited to catch-and-release only, with no bait allowed and one barbless hook per fly or lure. Mackinaw has a limit of six fish per day.
5. Eagle Island State Park
Spanning 545 acres of idyllic open waters, sandy beaches, and gorgeous greenery, Eagle Island State Park is an enticing beauty spot as popular with outdoor recreationalists as it is with those looking to relax and unwind.
When you’re done fishing for an assortment of bass, trout, and salmon in the peaceful setting of Eagle Island Park Pond, be sure to take advantage of the many other activities such as the popular 19-hole disc golf course and horseback riding.
Type of Fishing: Freshwater fishing, pond fishing, fly fishing
Expect to find: Largemouth and smallmouth bass, kokanee, brook trout, ocean-run salmon, bluegill
Rules and safety guidelines: Specific bag limits apply for each type of fish caught in Eagle Island waters.
Use a map to plan your Eagle Island State Park visit.
6.C.J Strike Reservoir – Southwest Idaho
Idaho may be a trout angler’s dream, but there are many more jewels beneath the surface of the Gem State’s waters.
Nowhere is that more evident than in the versatile waters of C.J. Strike Reservoir. Sat in the middle of a picturesque wilderness and teeming with a widely diverse range of cold- and warm-water species, the reservoir is known as one of Idaho’s most family-friendly fishing hotspots, with well-kept camping grounds and plenty of opportunity for both boat and shore fishing.
The Snake River arm is your best choice for boat fishing, while the Bruneau arm is where you’ll find the biggest variety of fish.
Type of Fishing: freshwater, fly fishing, boat fishing.
Expect to find: crappie, bass, catfish, perch, rainbow trout, and sturgeon.
Rules and safety guidelines: Daily bag limits apply. Please check before fishing.
Explore C.J Strike Reservoir on a map
Key Things to Consider When Choosing an Idaho Fishing Spot
Accessibility
It’s worth noting that some of Idaho’s best fishing spots aren’t always easy to get to.
Some have limited public roads going to and from them, while others require a serious hike to reach prime angling locations.
With that in mind, plan your trip carefully to ensure that reaching your chosen spot is within the capabilities of you and your party.
Seasons and Weather
While summer fishing in Idaho offers warm weather and abundant opportunities for the trophy-sized catch, some species—particularly the area’s famous steelhead trout—are best caught in the cooler fall months.
Be sure to check seasonal patterns and pack accordingly for temperature changes, especially in the many high-elevation areas found throughout the Mountain State.
Equipment Requirement
Some spots require specific equipment, such as barbless hooks, while most restrict trap and net sizes to 1 ft or less.
Be sure to pack the correct, legally compliant gear to avoid potential problems.
Rules for Fishing in Idaho
Before setting off, we recommend getting a copy of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game’s 80-page Fishing Seasons and Rules brochure.
This contains practically everything you need to know to ensure a safe, successful, and legal fishing expedition.
Don’t have time for that right now?
Here are a few of the most important rules you’ll need to keep in mind:
Idaho’s Waters Are Home To An Endangered Species
The federal Endangered Species Act lists bull trout as a threatened species. As such, you’ll find that not only are they catch-and-release only, but also that many places don’t allow you to fish with live bait to help protect them.
Pay close attention to the rules, as accidentally killing a bull trout carries the same penalty as intentionally poking this at-risk fish.
Some Regions Are Off-Limits
It’s illegal to fish within the posted upstream or downstream boundaries of fish weirs or traps.
Tread carefully and stick to spots you know you’re allowed to be.
Bag and Harvest Limits Apply
Over 40 varieties of fish make Idaho’s waters their home. Many of these have different bag and harvest limits.
Refer to the rule book mentioned above or consult the Idaho Department of Fish and Game to check what restrictions apply to the kind of fish you’re planning to catch.
Idaho Fishing Licenses
As well as abiding by the rules above, anyone over the age of 14 needs a valid license to fish in Idaho.
You can purchase a license via the official Go Outdoors Idaho app (available for iPhone and Android devices) or via any registered license vendor in the state.
Options include:
Idaho Fishing Licenses for Nonresidents
- Daily fishing license
- First day – $22.75
- Additional days – $7 per day.
- Three-day salmon/steelhead license – $44.75
- Annual licenses
- Fishing Only – $108 per year
- Combination hunting and fishing – $264 per year.
Fishing Licenses for Idaho Residents
- Daily fishing license
- First day – $13.50
- Additional day – $6 per day
- Annual licenses:
- Annual fishing – $30.50
- Annual combination hunting & fishing – $38.75
How Salted Angler Selected the Best Fishing Spots in Idaho
With its spectacular natural beauty, well-maintained recreation groups, and diverse aquatic life, Idaho is a haven for anglers and outdoor adventurers alike, making it just as popular for a family getaway as it is for a solo fishing expedition.
Still, with thousands of miles of open waters to choose from, picking just six spots as the best of the best was no easy task.
Here’s how we did it:
1. Fish Type – Idaho is well-known for its trout, but there are over 40 game fish varieties waiting to be caught; variety was a top priority in our selection process. We looked for spots that offered something unique for anglers of all preferences and scored high marks for variety.
2. Facilities and Abilities – While some anglers love an off-the-beaten-path adventure, we know that many others are looking to Idaho as the ideal spot to combine fishing with a family break. With that in mind, we included a mix of locations, from family-friendly destinations with campsites and facilities to hidden gems for the more adventurous.
3. Local Expertise – Our recommendations are based on our own experiences fishing in the Gem State, as well as input from seasoned local anglers who know Idaho’s waters like the back of their hands. This helped us identify top-tier spots and refine our list to reflect the very best Idaho has to offer.
Check out our editorial policy to learn more about our team and how we work.
General FAQs
What’s the hardest fish to catch in Idaho?
Tiger muskies are Idaho’s most elusive fish, proving incredibly difficult to catch. Though it’s very rare to land one, anyone lucky enough to do so will no doubt class it as a highlight of their angling career.
What is the best month to fish in Idaho?
Early September is the best time to book your Idaho fishing trip. You’ll get the tail end of the beautiful summer weather with the excitement of steelhead season and fewer tourists.
Why does Idaho require barbless hooks?
Some parts of Idaho require barbless hooks to protect endangered species such as bull trout and help maintain a healthy population of other species.
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