Idaho is blessed with 26,000 miles of streams and rivers, more than 3,000 natural lakes, and a quarter-million acres of ponds and reservoirs. Inhabiting Idaho’s waters are 42 game fish species, from giant white sturgeon to wild trout, catfish to kokanee, smallmouth bass, salmon and steelhead.
Despite the variety however, most people think trout fishing when they think of Idaho, and it’s no wonder. This beautiful state has tons of great trout waters including, but not limited to Big Creek, Kelly Creek, Selway River, St. Joe River, and the South Fork of the Snake River.
Idaho is one of the West’s hidden gems for fly fishing enthusiasts.
We work with the best Idaho fly fishing guides who are looking forward to sharing this state’s incredibly beautiful, and nearly untouched trout waters. From casting dry flies to native cutthroat trout in the remote wilderness areas, to hauling in smallmouth bass in Hells Canyon, to fighting giant sturgeon on the Snake River…Idaho has the fishing trip you’re looking for.
Fishing Hotspots in Idaho
Big Creek
Big Creek in the Frank Church Wilderness is Idaho’s premier Westslope cutthroat fishery….and that’s saying a lot because this state has some incredible cutthroat fishing. Kelly Creek, the Lochsa River and the Selway River rank close behind in our opinion.
Hells Canyon
You can expect some exceptional sturgeon fishing in Hells Canyon. In addition to the sturgeon though, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, salmon and steelhead can all be caught in Hells Canyon, depending on the time of year. All trips up and down the river will be in jet boats, it’s a relaxing trip and makes for an amazing family vacation. You’ll see tons of wildlife and the scenery is breathtaking.
Middle Fork of the Salmon River
The Middle Fork of the Salmon River is a gem located in Idaho’s Frank Church Wilderness. The largest wilderness area in the Lower 48. It is an awe inspiring place to get away from your phone, computer, and the rest of the “real world”. This trip has been described as “life changing” by many of our clients.
Since the 1973 catch-and-release, single barbless hook policy, native trout populations have thrived on this world famous watershed. We regularly fish dry flies only for the entire float, and regardless of your experience level, you WILL catch fish!
Salmon River
For almost 180 miles, the Salmon River Canyon is more than one mile deep, making it one-fifth of a mile deeper than the Grand Canyon! Good numbers of wild and hatchery steelhead enter the Salmon River in the fall. Fishing is most productive with gear fishing the deep pools and tail outs of runs. However fly fishing can also be done this time of year with a spey rod.
I expected big trout on this trip based on all the stories I've read over the years, and I was not disappointed! I broke my own personal best rainbow trout record at least SIX times on this trip, with the biggest being a 16 pound beauty. I will be going again soon!
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