Idaho Outdoors fishing report: Wednesday, Jan. 13

Lake Cascade (ice fishing)

Anglers continue to catch nice perch and rainbows across most of the reservoir, which is covered by 8-12 inches of ice in most areas. Perch fishing has been better on the north end, while trout fishing has been best around Blue Heron. Fishing for both species has been steady in recent weeks, with anglers using lures such as Chubby Darters and Hali jigs and baits such as worms, PowerBait and mealworms. A heads up: The ice likely will be crowded this Saturday because of the annual Youth Ice Fishing Day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The derby will take place on the west side of the lake at the Poison Creek Campground. More details: www.idahoyouthoutdoors.org.

Getting there: Take Idaho 55 north through Cascade and follow the turnoff signs to sportsman access areas.

Magic Reservoir (ice fishing)

Ice fishing is slow but steady according to the folks at West Magic Resort. You might not catch a ton of fish, but most of the rainbow trout coming through the ice are in the 3- to 4-pound range, which is awesome. The perch are starting to bite as well. Magic doesn’t have the jumbo perch that Cascade is known for, but there are lots of keeper-worthy fish in the 8- to 11-inch range. Marshmallows and night crawlers fished in tandem are the bait of choice. Jigs such as Swedish Pimples should work, too. Parking is somewhat limited until the resort can fully plow the ice fishing lot, so please be courteous to your fellow anglers and resort visitors. Call West Magic, 208-487-2571, for updates.

Getting there: Take I-84 east past Mountain Home. Take Exit 141 and follow U.S. 26 and Idaho 75 northeast to West Magic Resort.

Owyhee River (trout)

You might have to maneuver around some ice, but fly fishermen are still catching some nice browns and rainbows using streamer and midge patterns. The recent warming after the long cold spell could give fishing a boost, too. Action was red-hot on the Owyhee in early December. Don’t forget your 2016 Oregon license.

Getting there: Fish downstream from Adrian, Ore.

Boise River (trout)

Flows are pretty angler-friendly through town, and there are plenty of fish being caught by those who put in the effort. Warmer temperatures in the Valley should clear out the ice that formed during the cold snap, though it might bring a bit of muddy runoff, too. At any rate, none of the changes should affect fishing conditions too much, so cast your favorite flies, lures and baits into some deep pools and riffles and give it a shot.

Getting there: Rainbow trout are stocked between Barber Park and the Glenwood Bridge.

This story was originally published January 12, 2016 at 10:55 PM with the headline "Idaho Outdoors fishing report: Wednesday, Jan. 13."