Fishing For Salmon In Idaho
Guide to fishing for Atlantic and coho salmon in ID.
Idaho is renowned for its exceptional salmon fishing opportunities, attracting anglers from far and wide. The state is home to two main species of salmon: Chinook salmon (also known as king salmon) and sockeye salmon. These iconic fish species undertake remarkable journeys to reach their spawning grounds, providing anglers with thrilling fishing experiences. The purpose of this page is to share basic information about salmon fishing and identify popular salmon waters in the state.
Atlantic Salmon
Known as the “king of fish”, Atlantic salmon live in both fresh and saltwater, which means they are anadromous. They are renowned for their impressive athleticism, and delectable taste. Native to the North Atlantic Ocean, these fish undertake extraordinary journeys from their natal rivers to distant feeding grounds in the open ocean and back again to spawn. In recent years, the allure of fishing for landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes has grown in popularity. Landlocked Atlantic salmon in lakes exhibit similar behaviors to their sea-run counterparts, including feeding frenzies and impressive displays of strength when hooked. Anglers most often target landlocked salmon by trolling open water. The pursuit of landlocked Atlantic salmon also comes with a responsibility. Conservation efforts are essential to ensure the long-term sustainability of these populations. Anglers must follow local regulations, and support habitat restoration initiatives to safeguard the future of this cherished species.
Coho Salmon
Another species of salmon found in Idaho is the coho salmon. These coho's can are often more available to be caught during the fall when they migrate closer to the shoreline. These acrobatic fish put up a fierce fight and are highly prized by anglers. Trolling with spoons, plugs, or flies is a popular method for targeting coho salmon.
Coho Salmon are smaller in size compared to other salmon but still provide a thrilling fight when hooked. Coho salmon, also called silver salmon, are another prized species targeted by anglers in Wisconsin. These fish are known for their aggressive nature and aerial displays when hooked. Coho salmon offer thrilling battles, often leaping out of the water and making blistering runs. They can be caught by trolling or casting near shore areas during their migratory periods. Use small spinners, or bait on a bobber setup. Good bait options include wax worms, minnows, shrimp, and nightcrawlers.
Chinook salmon, known for their large size and impressive fighting ability, are highly sought after by anglers in Idaho. These prized fish can weigh up to 50 pounds or more, making each catch an adrenaline-pumping adventure. The Salmon River and Clearwater River are popular destinations for Chinook salmon fishing in Idaho. Anglers employ various techniques, such as drift fishing, trolling, or back-bouncing, to entice these powerful fish to bite.
Sockeye salmon, while smaller in size compared to Chinook salmon, offer their own unique fishing experience. Idaho is home to one of the most remarkable sockeye salmon runs in the country, with fish returning to Redfish Lake in the Sawtooth Mountains. The journey of the sockeye salmon from the Pacific Ocean to the mountain lakes is awe-inspiring, and anglers have the opportunity to catch these vibrant and flavorful fish during their return.
Salmon fishing in Idaho typically occurs during specific seasons and is subject to regulations to ensure sustainable populations. Anglers should familiarize themselves with the rules and regulations set by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game to participate in responsible and ethical fishing practices.
Whether it's battling a Chinook salmon on the end of the line or witnessing the spectacle of sockeye salmon returning to their ancestral waters, Idaho's salmon fishing offers a captivating and memorable experience. Anglers can immerse themselves in the beauty of Idaho's rivers and witness the natural wonder of these magnificent fish species as they complete their remarkable life cycle.
Salmon Fishing Waters In Idaho
The major lakes in Idaho with quality populations of salmon include Anderson Ranch Reservoir, Arrowrock Reservoir, C J Strike Reservoir, Cascade Reservoir, Coeur D'Alene Lake, Deadwood Reservoir, Dworshak Reservoir, Hayden Lake, Island Park Reservoir, Lake Lowell, Lake Pend Oreille, Little Payette Lake, Lucky Peak Reservoir, Palisades Reservoir, Payette Lake, Priest Lake, Redfish Lake, Ririe Reservoir, Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir, Spirit Lake, Upper Priest Lake and Warm Lake. Try ice fishing for salmon at several lakes in the state.
Atlantic salmon
World record: 79 lbs 2 oz
State Record: 13.25 lbs
Chinook salmon
World record: 54 lbs 0 oz
State Record: 42.0 lbs
Coho salmon
World record: 33 lbs 7 oz
State Record: 6.0 lbs
Kokanee salmon
World record: 9 lbs 10 oz
State Record: 6.59 lbs
Click the images and links above for species details.
Idaho state record salmon
The state record atlantic salmon came out of Deadwood Reservoir.
The state record king-chinook salmon came from Coeur d' Alene Lake.
The state record coho salmon came from Cascade Reservoir.
The state record kokanee salmon was caught in Priest Lake.
About The Pacific Salmon Family
Pacific Salmon are born in and remain in freshwater streams for the early years of life. The number varies by species. Afterward they migrate to the Pacific Ocean waters where they bulk up and prepare for their once in a lifetime spawning run up the freshwater stream where they were born. They will instinctively return to their birthplace, spawn and die. They are found in the streams which empty into the ocean, and adjoining ocean waters.
The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies. For more details check here for articles about fly fishing.
Salmon Organizations
Idaho Salmon Fishing
The preferred method for catching salmon is fly fishing. Depending on the activity level, salmon may be caught on wet or dry flies, as well as a variety of other lures and baits.
Salmon fishing waters and information, by state.
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