I always figure if a guy is willing to drive a couple hours, he (or she) can find decent fishing year-round. That’s still the case, but there’s likely to be some curveballs this summer.

I was reminded of this last weekend while watching a wall of dust appear on the horizon and engulf us while we were fishing on the Snake River. I can now say from experience that a biblical dust storm shuts down bass fishing on the Snake. We kept fishing, but never got another bite after the weather turned apocalyptic.

With numerous wildfires burning throughout the state and scorching heat from the desert up the mountains, things are going to be tricky. Before you travel, make sure there are no fire closures in your favorite fishing spots, or blocked roads to those areas.

If you’re staying low in elevation, you may still encounter smoke as it settles in the mornings and evenings.

Don’t let all that keep you at home hugging the air conditioner. I was pleasantly surprised how good fishing was on the Snake, and I wouldn’t hesitate to go back.

There are many other places I want to try, so I will be heading out soon for a big trip around the state, and I plan to hit a few new fishing spots along the way.

And don’t overlook those places close to home. The Boise River is in great shape right now, and I see lots of people out fishing it. You don’t have to make every trip an expedition; you just have to get your line in the water.