Reader mailbag: Idaho anglers talk fishing in the time of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic in Idaho is about to hit the two-month mark. I hope everyone is staying healthy, sane and safe — and getting a chance to enjoy some “social fishtancing.”
My inbox has been flooded with questions and comments from readers, including many who are looking for answers about fishing-related impacts of the pandemic and associated shutdowns. It’s a fluid situation, but here’s the best information I have as of this writing:
Which Idaho fishing spots are open or closed?
There seems to be a lot of misinformation out there as to what fishing access areas and boat launches are closed. Here’s what I know for sure:
Fishing season remains open for licensed Idaho residents, as do access points and boat ramps operated by Idaho Fish and Game. Anglers are encouraged to fish close to home and practice social distancing while enjoying the outdoors.
State parks are closed for camping, but remain open for day use, including fishing.
Lake Lowell, after a brief delay, is now open to boaters.
Facilities operated by Idaho Power are closed — this includes parks, campgrounds, boat ramps and day use areas.
Most boat ramps associated with resorts and other businesses are closed.
I’ve also received complaints about overcrowding and a lack of social distancing. Personally, people have been respectful and courteous when I’ve encountered them on the water. There will always be a few bad apples (or folks who aren’t experienced enough to know boat ramp traffic patterns and fishing etiquette), and the number of those folks is sure to be amplified given how many stir-crazy people are using fishing as an outlet. Just remember — everyone is in the same boat, so let’s be extra patient until this crummy situation is in our rearview.
Oregon still selling non-resident fishing licenses
I heard from two readers who were frustrated that they were allowed to purchase a non-resident Oregon license, but not allowed to use it. Fishing in Oregon closed to non-residents on April 10 and remains closed (Oregon has a stay-home order similar to Idaho’s, and an end date has not yet been announced).
I confirmed with the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife that non-resident permits are still being sold, and that refunds are not being offered for the annual permit (the rationale being that restrictions will lift at some point and non-residents can resume use of the license). If you purchased a daily license but were not able to use it, you can request a refund at odfw.websales@state.or.us.
On a related note, Idaho suspended the sale of many non-resident permits because of COVID-19.
Big trout feedback
My inbox lit up after last week’s column about the monster rainbow trout I caught. Thanks for all your kind words! Two common themes emerged — many folks thanked me for releasing the whopper, and others wondered why I let it go. Here’s my thinking:
Big fish are old, wily and rare, which is what makes catching one so special. When I catch a big fish, I release it to keep those good genetics in the river or lake, and to provide an opportunity for someone else to experience the same thrill. Today’s fiberglass replicas are super high quality, so I’d rather keep mid-sized fish for the frying pan and let the trophies swim off to fight another day.
Fishing class update
I haven’t been teaching my Tight Lines 208 fishing classes during the pandemic, but I will resume as soon as it’s safe to do so. Right now, Trout of This World is up next on May 19, followed by All About That Bass on June 23. I’ll continue to adjust the schedule as needed — until then, 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.