If you’re a passionate angler looking for the perfect bass fishing spot, then Idaho is definitely the place to be. With its picturesque natural scenery and abundant fish populations, Idaho offers some of the best bass fishing opportunities in the country. In this article, we will take a closer look at the top 10 bass fishing spots in Idaho, with useful tips, secrets, and interesting facts for both beginners and professional fishermen.
Without further ado, here are the top 10 bass fishing spots in Idaho:
- Lake Pend Oreille
Located in the northern part of Idaho, Lake Pend Oreille is a popular spot for bass fishing. The lake is home to both smallmouth and largemouth bass, with the latter being more abundant. Fishing season starts in May and lasts until October, with the best time to fish being early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Useful tip: use jigs or plastic worms to catch larger bass. - Coeur d’Alene Lake
Another great spot for bass fishing in northern Idaho is Coeur d’Alene Lake. This lake has both smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as some other species like walleye and trout. Fishing season starts in May and lasts until September, with the best time to fish being during the early morning or late afternoon. Useful tip: use topwater lures or crankbaits to catch smallmouth bass, and spinnerbaits or jigs to catch largemouth bass. - Snake River
If you’re looking for a challenge, try fishing in the Snake River. This river flows through the southern part of Idaho and is home to both smallmouth and largemouth bass. Fishing season starts in May and lasts until September, with the best time to fish being during the early morning or late afternoon. Useful tip: use spinnerbaits or jigs to catch smallmouth bass, and topwater lures or crankbaits to catch largemouth bass. - Payette River
The Payette River is another great spot for bass fishing, located in western Idaho. This river has both smallmouth and largemouth bass, with the former being more abundant. Fishing season starts in May and lasts until October, with the best time to fish being during the early morning or late afternoon. Useful tip: use soft plastics or jerkbaits to catch smallmouth bass. - Lake Lowell
Located in southwestern Idaho, Lake Lowell is a popular spot for bass fishing. This lake has both small mouth and largemouth bass, as well as some other species like bluegill and crappie. Fishing season starts in April and lasts until October, with the best time to fish being early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Useful tip: use jigs or spinnerbaits to catch larger bass. - American Falls Reservoir
If you’re looking for a peaceful spot to fish, check out the American Falls Reservoir in southeastern Idaho. This reservoir has both smallmouth and largemouth bass, with the former being more abundant. Fishing season starts in May and lasts until October, with the best time to fish being during the early morning or late afternoon. Useful tip: use crankbaits or jigs to catch smallmouth bass, and topwater lures or spinnerbaits to catch largemouth bass. - Lake Cascade
Located in central Idaho, Lake Cascade is a popular spot for bass fishing. This lake has both smallmouth and largemouth bass, with the latter being more abundant. Fishing season starts in May and lasts until October, with the best time to fish being early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Useful tip: use spinnerbaits or jigs to catch smallmouth bass, and topwater lures or crankbaits to catch largemouth bass. - Henry’s Lake
If you’re up for a challenge, head to Henry’s Lake in eastern Idaho. This lake is home to both smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as some other species like cutthroat trout and kokanee salmon. Fishing season starts in May and lasts until October, with the best time to fish being early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Useful tip: use soft plastics or jerkbaits to catch smallmouth bass. - Lake Walcott
Located in southern Idaho, Lake Walcott is a great spot for bass fishing. This lake has both smallmouth and largemouth bass, as well as some other species like catfish and bluegill. Fishing season starts in April and lasts until October, with the best time to fish being early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Useful tip: use spinnerbaits or jigs to catch smallmouth bass, and topwater lures or crankbaits to catch largemouth bass. - Brownlee Reservoir
Last but not least, the Brownlee Reservoir in western Idaho is a popular spot for bass fishing. This reservoir has both smallmouth and largemouth bass, with the former being more abundant. Fishing season starts in April and lasts until October, with the best time to fish being early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Useful tip: use crankbaits or jigs to catch smallmouth bass.
Beginner’s Guide to Fishing in Idaho
If you’re new to fishing in Idaho, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, make sure you have the proper fishing license and permit, as fishing without one is illegal in Idaho. Second, familiarize yourself with the local fishing regulations, as they can vary depending on the location and time of year. Third, be prepared for the weather, as Idaho can get very hot or very cold, depending on the season. Finally, bring the right equipment, such as a sturdy fishing rod, a good reel, and bait suitable for bass fishing.
Professional Fisherman’s Guide to Fishing in Idaho
If you’re a seasoned fisherman, you already know the basics, but there are still a few things to consider when fishing in Idaho. First, the best time to catch bass in Idaho is during the warmer months, between May and September. Second, be aware of the different types of bass found in Idaho, such as smallmouth and largemouth bass, and adjust your fishing techniques accordingly. Third, pay attention to the water conditions, as different water bodies can have different depths, currents, and structures that affect fish behavior. Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment with different lures and baits, as the fish in Idaho can be quite picky.
Conclusion
Idaho offers some of the best bass fishing spots in the country, with a variety of lakes, rivers, and reservoirs to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional fisherman, there’s something for everyone in Idaho. Just remember to bring the right equipment, follow the local regulations, and be respectful of the environment. Happy fishing!