Fishing report: Avoid other anglers if you plan to fish
Editor’s note: A previous version of this article suggested fishing spots in Hagerman and Cascade. To avoid the spread of coronavirus to small communities, this article has been updated. Please practice social distancing and use caution when spending time outdoors.
Much has changed since I wrote my last fishing article. These are strange and troubling times, and while getting outdoors still seems like a safe activity, it’s getting harder to do so without encountering other people.
In the original version of this article, which was written more than a week ago and recently published online, I recommended the Hagerman Valley for family-friendly trout fishing. But I’m going to instead suggest avoiding travel to small communities for now — it’s just not worth the risk of spreading this blasted virus. At a minimum, avoid restaurants, restrooms, shops and other public spaces if you do travel to fish. Destinations you can reach and return from on a single tank of gas are best.
Anglers should also be mindful of large crowds at popular fishing spots, boat launches and campgrounds. With so many people sent home from work and school, angler access points are exponentially more crowded than usual. I heard reports of more than 200 boats in the Narrows at C.J. Strike over the weekend. Fishing is a great social distancing activity if you can find some space, but that might not be easy. Please be courteous of other anglers and give them their space—even more than you usually would.
This situation sucks on pretty much all levels, and the last thing I want to do is put a damper on fishing. Idaho has plenty of wilderness to roam — let’s just be safe and smart about it until this pandemic passes us by.
Salmon and Clearwater Rivers (Steelhead)
Steelhead fishing is one activity I still feel pretty good about, provided you make it a day trip or set up camp in the backcountry (hotels and crowded campgrounds should be avoided).
Angler efforts have increased in recent weeks, and I have seen some nice fish being caught on both the Salmon and Clearwater rivers. The most productive stretches right now are the South Fork of the Clearwater and the Salmon between its Middle and North Forks. Anglers are averaging about 14 hours per fish caught in both locations, which isn’t too bad considering this year’s low fish numbers. Keep an eye on river flows and visibility conditions.
Crankbaits, brightly colored jigs and streamers, shrimp and roe balls are the best lures and baits to catch a steelhead. Make sure to grab your 2020 permit and check out the Fish & Game website for the latest updates.
Closure notices
As you plan your fishing trips, here are a few closures to keep in mind:
The South Fork Boise River closes to fishing April 1. It reopens Memorial Day weekend.
In the interest of public safety, Idaho Power has closed its campgrounds along the Snake River, including popular fishing spots at C.J. Strike Reservoir and in Hells Canyon. Boat launches and fishing access remain available, but restrooms and camping are not.
Fish & Game has closed public access to hatchery buildings and canceled public events, including its “Take Me Fishing” trailer, until future notice.
Stay healthy and safe out there, everybody. 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.
This story was originally published March 23, 2020 at 12:00 AM.