February ice fishing report: Here’s what’s biting on southwest Idaho hardwater
February marks the final month of reliable ice at many local fisheries (although some will likely stay frozen into March). Ice conditions have improved thanks to colder temperatures, especially at higher elevations. As you plan your trips, here are some destinations to consider. As always, I recommend fishing on at least four inches of ice, using the buddy system and drilling test holes as you go.
Payette Lake (Mackinaw trout)
Payette currently has six-plus inches of solid ice, with relatively little slush and snow on top. Payette offers the unique opportunity to catch massive trophy fish through the ice — Mackinaw trout that can surpass 40 inches long! It is not typically a high-volume fishery.
If you go, expect to put in a lot of effort for a handful of opportunities (catching one nice Mackinaw is a success). Most anglers use white tube jigs tipped with a piece of cut sucker, pikeminnow or kokanee. Spoons, swimbaits and bucktail jigs can also be effective at times. Mackinaw are often found in deep water, anywhere from 60 to 90 feet, so electronics are vital.
Public access is tricky at Payette, so many anglers fish near the marina in town. Hiking to explore other areas can pay off with better quality fish. I recommend releasing large lake trout, which take decades to reach trophy size.
Mountain View Reservoir (trout, perch)
With low water conditions hampering efforts at Magic and Mormon reservoirs, the Duck Valley Reservation has had the most consistent trout fishing this hardwater season. Mountain View is the go-to ice fishery, and it has been producing solid catch rates on 15-to-20-inch rainbows.
Anglers are catching trout on jigs and dead sticks with shrimp, cut bait and worms. Big perch are also possible (perch pattern lures are a good bet for both species). If you go, get there early — the bite often dies by late morning. Duck Valley requires a separate permit, which cost $18 per day or $100 for the year.
Lake Cascade (perch, trout)
It has been a good perch season at Lake Cascade. The fish are actively chasing minnow patterns like jigging Rapalas and, as usual, there are plenty of 14-to-16-inch jumbos. They are hard to get to on foot, with the majority of the fish being found in 30-plus feet of water out in the old river channel. The good news is the ice and slush conditions have improved, and snowmobile travel is a lot easier than it was throughout most of January.
Don’t overlook the trophy trout possibilities at Cascade. I always like to have a trout rod or two out while I’m jigging for perch, and big rainbows often add some excitement to the day. For the latest reports, stop by Tackle Tom’s or call (208) 382-4367.
Other options
Magic continues to produce slow catch rates on rainbow trout, but the fish are usually big. Horsethief remains a consistent bet for friendly access and pan-sized trout. Warm Lake is a beautiful place to fish for rainbows, small kokanee and occasional surprises. Stay safe out there! Tight lines!
Jordan Rodriguez has been fishing Idaho waters since he was a teen. Share your fish stories, adventures and questions with him at tightlinesboise@gmail.com, or visit www.tightlines208.com for the latest local fishing reports and upcoming class offerings.
This story was originally published February 10, 2023 at 12:00 AM.