May 8, 2008
Steelhead Trout
The Steelhead season closed April 30 on most regional waters, but goes until May 15 on the Little Salmon River.
The Little Salmon River near Riggins is still providing great steelhead action (season closes May 15). This section is for bank anglers only. Drifting baited corky rigs is the preferred method. With the changing weather, both the water level and clarity fluctuates. The waters are running high and muddy
Chinook Salmon
The salmon fishing frenzy hasn't reached Lewiston yet. However, fishing success is expected to pick up the next few weeks, with excellent fishing expected through June if anglers follow the migration upstream. Like during the spring steelhead season, the towns of Orofino, Kooskia, Kamiah, and Riggins are considered "Chinook Central" during late May and early June during a good run.
Kokanee
The best kokanee fishing on Dworshak Reservoir is usually in April, May and June, with most of the action occurring between the dam and Dent Bridge.Kokanee numbers are down, so sizes are up, averaging 10-12inches. The best kokanee fishing on Dworshak Reservoir is usually in April, May and June, with most of the action occurring between the dam and Dent Bridge.
Anglers with boats are reminded that water levels are usually down 60 feet this time of year, but will rise to nearly full pool by June. Boat anglers trolling slowly with weighted line or 1-3oz weights with standard spinner-gear with hooks baited with maggots or corn are reporting fair catches.
Snake River
Bass anglers are beginning to catch some very nice smallmouth (1-4lb range) taking bait, baited jigs, and crankbaits on the Snake above Lewiston. Anglers fishing in 10 to 12 feet of water near rocky structure are doing the best. Catfish in the 3 to 8-pound range are also starting to bite on bait such as nightcrawlers, stink-bait and power-bait. No boat - no worries. The levees near Lewiston offer great places to catfish from shore.
This report, from the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, updated May 2, highlights a few of the best places to fish, what anglers are using and what they are catching. The information is compiled from regional Fish and Game fishery managers, local tackle shops and anglers.Sportsmen's Report sponsored by John and Lorraine Weiland
Riverside Sport Shop/Sinclair
11320 U.S. Highway 12, Orofino--208-476-5418