Idaho Fish Report

2023 family fishing events

The calendar for family fishing events is filling up. These events are aimed at the whole family and can be a great way to learn how to fish together. Find an event near you.

Apply for your big game hunt tag

Less than three weeks left to apply for your 2023 big game tag. This is our annual reminder to apply early to avoid the last-minute rush and to allow for kinks in the system. Maybe one year it will work. How to apply online.

Archery and bowhunting workshop May 6-7

This two-day workshop is in La Pine. Day one includes fast-paced and hands-on training in archery fundamentals, equipment and theory. Day two is a “next step” introduction to bow hunting. To learn more and to register.

First halibut seasons of 2023 open May 1

Halibut 2023 begins on May 1 for the central and southern Oregon subareas. Find season details here (dates, places and other regulations).

Best bets for weekend fishing

Finally, a sunny warm weekend is in the forecast. No more excuses for not going fishing. Lots of anglers will have the same idea, so expect company wherever you fish. Be kind and patient, and have fun.

• Late season winter steelhead. Fish are still around and being caught in several locations.
• Early season spring Chinook. The season is jusssst starting in many locations, but there are reports of anglers catching fish from Tillamook Bay to the Rogue River.
• Recently stocked trout. Almost all accessible locations have been stocked at least once this year. Check the trout stocking schedule to find fish near you, and be sure to confirm access before you head out.

Need more intel? Check out the zone reports.

Late winter impact on spring trout stocking

Spring stocking in several parts of the state is being delayed due to heavy snow and lack of access for the liberation trucks. A good rule of thumb is if a waterbody is still inaccessible or frozen over, it will not be stocked as scheduled. We're doing our best to keep the online stocking schedule and Recreation Report up-to-date. In addition, check local road reports to confirm access.

Due to cold water conditions, fishing for newly stocked trout may be slow. These trout are coming from the warmer water in the hatcheries, and are in for a bit of a shock when they're stocked in very cold water of many lakes and ponds. Within a few days, these fish should acclimate and become more active.