Fishing report: Safe ice proving elusive thus far in Southwest Idaho
This time of year, most reader questions and comments are about ice fishing. It’s an increasingly popular topic, and as a hardwater enthusiast, I certainly understand the appeal.
While I already journeyed east for one ice fishing trip this season, I am sorry to report there is no safe ice in southwest Idaho just yet. Read on for the latest ice update, along with some open water destinations to keep us occupied while we wait.
Ice Fishing Update
As of this writing, the only hardwater on our side of the state is at Horsethief Reservoir just outside Cascade. It’s frozen over and I have seen a few anglers brave it, but with less than four inches of ice, I can’t recommend it for safe fishing yet.
Lake Cascade and Magic Reservoir also have ice building in some areas, but not enough to support anglers. Once safe ice arrives, it’s usually here to stay until spring. We just haven’t had cold weather stick around long enough to build a solid layer. It will likely be Christmas before there’s safe ice, but I’ll keep readers posted. I’m as anxious as anyone to drill some holes, but thin ice isn’t worth the risk.
If you can’t wait, plan a weekend getaway to Henry’s Lake in eastern Idaho. It’s been frozen since Halloween, and it remains open for fishing through New Year’s Day.
Owyhee River (Trout)
Late fall fishing can be tricky on the Owyhee, but there are still some big rainbows and browns to be caught. Fly anglers can catch trout on streamers, leeches, midges and pheasant tail nymphs. On warmer days, some afternoon dry fly action might also be in the cards. Spin anglers can fish the Owyhee with spinners, spoons and crankbaits. Single, barbless hooks are recommended, as all brown trout are catch-and-release only.
Flows get pretty low this time of year, so waders are helpful for getting to the good spots. Don’t forget your Oregon fishing license!
Brownlee Reservoir (Bass, Crappie, Catfish)
Brownlee is usually a friendly spot to fish from a boat in the fall. Even if water levels drop below the ramps, there are numerous spots where you can launch from shore, and snow and ice typically aren’t a problem.
Crappie fishing has been slow, but I have had some great days catching cold-weather crappie at Brownlee in the past. If you can locate a school, you might be in business. Bass have slowed down, but catching them in cold water is a fun challenge. Using drop-shot soft plastics in deeper water or dragging slow, deep-diving crankbaits might entice a nice bass. The same goes for catfish, which have a hard time resisting a nice chunk of cut bait no matter how chilly it gets.
Boise River (Trout, Whitefish)
Steady as the tides and convenient as they come, the Boise River is a reliable fishing spot this time of year. There won’t be any steelhead in the Boise this fall, but rainbow trout, brown trout and whitefish can be found in abundance if you know where to look.
Spinners, spoons, worms, Power Bait, streamers and hare’s ear nymphs are good tackle choices for fishing the Boise River. Remember to practice catch-and-release on big, wild trout to help preserve our unique urban fishery.
Tight lines!
Jordan Rodriguez has been fishing Idaho waters since he was a teen. Share your fish stories, adventures, tips and tricks with him at tightlinesboise@gmail.com or visit www.tightlines208.com.