Fly Fishing Idaho | The best Trout Fly Fishing in Idaho
The Best places to Fly Fish in Idaho
Fishing is a hobby enjoyed by people of all ages and backgrounds. Idaho is a state that has some of the most scenic fishing streams in the country. People come from all over to enjoy their time on these streams. The following are some of the best places for Idaho fly fishing:
1. TWIN LAKES
The unique beauty of the Sawtooth Mountains, crystal clear water, and an abundance of fish make this location one of the most popular places to fish in Idaho. Several smaller lakes around Twin Lakes are equally beautiful but allow for less boating traffic which is great for those looking to get away from it all. You can also try fishing on the many creeks that run into the two largest lakes in this region - you might catch a giant fish! Fish species include Rainbow trout, Brook trout, and Cutthroat Trout.
2. SOUTH FORK BOISE RIVER
An epic location for those who enjoy river fishing. The river itself is around 3 miles long, allowing plenty of room on this famous stretch of water. Public access points are available on both sides of the river, but parking can be limited at peak times, so it's best to get there early in the day if you don't want to miss out! Fish species include Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, and Brook Trout.
3. SILVER CREEK
It is a great spot away from heavy traffic - this creek is not very well known, so you are likely to have it all to yourself. The fishing is best at the head of the stream where there are loads of deep pools, so bring your sinking line! Fish species include Rainbow Trout and Brook Trout.
4. CARIBOU CREEK
If you like fly fishing in a beautiful location in peace, this is your place. You can fish all year round on this stream, but your best bet is in April - May when the water levels drop and fish move up into shallower parts of the river where fly fishers can more easily catch them. Fish species include Brown Trout and Cutthroat trout.
(Photo: Henry's Fork Anglers)
A great spot if you want to catch fish known to be significant. Rainbow Trout and Brown Trout make up the bulk of catches, but some Brook trout are also in this river. The best time to fish is from late May until early October, as fishing can be slow during the winter months. Access points are available on both sides of the river, so you have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to where you start your fishing day.
6. SALMON RIVER
Everyone knows about this world-famous location for big fish - the river itself stretches over 200 miles, so there are many opportunities here. Fish species include Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout, and Brook trout, making this great spot good for fly fisherman, lure fishers, and bait anglers alike! You can also stay at several resorts that cater well to anglers if you want to get in some dedicated time on the water.
If you are looking for a place to fish where you can also take in some beautiful scenery, this is the spot for you! The reservoir covers over 47,000 acres and is home to many different types of fish, including Rainbow trout, Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Crappie, and Perch. There are plenty of boat ramps and docks, making it easy to get out on the water and start fishing.
8. PAYETTE RIVER
This river is known for its sizeable Brown trout. The river flows over 500 miles, so there is no shortage of spots to try your luck, but the best time to go fishing is between June and August. Access points are available along the river's entire length, so you can try different places if you don't like where you start!
9. LAKE COEUR D'ALENE
This is a large lake that offers plenty of opportunities for fishing. The lake is home to many different types of fish, including Kokanee salmon, Brown trout, Cutthroat trout, Largemouth bass, and Smallmouth Bass. There are also several resorts located on the lake where you can rent a cabin or stay in a hotel and have all your meals taken care of - making it easy to spend a few days out on the water without having to worry about anything else.
10. C.J. STRIKE RESERVOIR
One of the best spots in Idaho for Bass fishing! The reservoir is home to Largemouth bass, Smallmouth bass, Spotted bass, Crappie, and Catfish. If you are looking to catch fish that will give you a good fight, this is the place for you! The reservoir covers over 7500 acres, so plenty of great fishing spots are available to try out.
11. LAKE PEND OREILLE
Another large lake in Idaho with many fish species makes it great for anglers. The best time to fish on this lake is between May and August, when fish are more active during the summer months. There are several resorts located around the lake. You can spend a few days enjoying everything that it offers while not having to worry about anything else - sit back and enjoy your vacation. At the same time, you relax by the water surrounded by nature.
12. PRIEST LAKE
This large lake is home to fish like Kokanee, Rainbow trout, Brook trout, and Brown Trout - there are also several other fish that can be found in the lake, but these four are the most prevalent. The best time to go fishing on this lake is between June and August, when conditions for fishing are best. There are plenty of great spots where you can cast your line out, so you don't have to worry about not having somewhere suitable to go (make sure you obey any rules or laws regarding where you can fish).
13. LAKE CASCADE
Located around 40 miles south of Moscow, Idaho, this large body of water offers plenty of opportunity for fishing year-round with a variety of different species, including Brown trout, Cutthroat trout-speckled dace, and largemouth bass. The lake is also an excellent spot for bird watching as many kinds of birds can be found in the area.
14. SNAKE RIVER
This river offers some of the best fishing in Idaho. This is due to plenty of different fish to choose from depending on what you are looking for. The best time to fish on the river is between April and October when the fish are most active. There are plenty of access points along the entire length of the river, so you can try out different spots if you don't like where you start.
Idaho is home to many excellent fly fishing spots. You can find these in different parts of the state, with some being better for beginners and others catering more towards experienced anglers.