Spring Fishing Report
Updated: April 14, 2010
This report highlights a few of the best places to fish, what anglers are using and what they are catching. The information is compiled from regional Fish and Game fishery managers, local tackle shops and anglers. Other general regional information is available below.

Steelhead
Only a short time to catch a steelhead before the spring season ends. The fish are making their final push to their spawning grounds. Best bets to try are roe or bobbers and jigs for bank or boat fishing. Anglers may now buy a second steelhead card that allows them to catch and keep 40 additional steelhead for the spring 2010 season within the Salmon River drainage only. The Clearwater River is the first area to close on April 30. Check regulations for subsequent closings.

Spring Chinook
Spring Chinook season is just around the corner! Biologists predict that this year the run could be three times what it was last year. Unfortunately, our winter snow pack is low. However, the lower water flows usually makes fishing better due to less mud and debris in the rivers. Fishing opens April 24 on the Clearwater River, Salmon River and Snake River drainages; on May 23 in the Lochsa River, and June 10 in the Vinegar Creek section of the lower Salmon River. For spring Chinook try bouncing along the bottom with a single hook with egg loop, a corky on the line above the hook, and yarn on the hook. Bait such as salmon roe can be added to this setup. Another option is using a winged bobber or other drift bobbers.

Kokanee
Kokanee fishing is good to great these days and historically continues through May. Find these desirable game fish at Dworshak Reservoir and Waha Lake. Also try for kokanee in the Little North Fork, North Fork and the Mainstem of the Clearwater River.

Trout
Trout fishing is picking up. It's hard to beat using a worm with a white shoepeg corn or PowerBait. Lowland lakes are being stocked.

Cooking tip: Double dip filets for a tasty pan-fried fish. Pat dry fresh fish filets. Dip filets into flour, then milk, then bread crumbs. Fry in 1-2 Tbs. canola oil on medium heat.


http://fishandgame.idaho.gov/