FISHTRACKS
CLEARWATER RIVER IN IDAHO
Idaho Steelhead
The Clearwater is famous for the large "B-Run" Steelhead that return to the spawning areas after two years in the ocean. Many of these great fighters will weigh 20 lbs. or more. The Clearwater River is suited to all styles of fishing-drifting, backtrolling, spin fishing or fly fishing - from shore or from the boat.
In recent years one of the most productive techniques has been "jig and bobber fishing", this particular style is very well suited to the less experienced steelheader who may find it difficult to learn the more demanding methods such as fly fishing or drift fishing..
Another popular method of fishing this river is fly fishing. During the early portion of the season these fish will willingly take flies. Anglers travel from all parts of the country to experience the excitement of one of these large fish taken on their favorite fly. Late season flyfishers that are skilled at nymph fishing can do very well in many of the runs. You need to expect cold water fishing as the water temps can be in the mid 30 degree range but for those who enjoy this type of fishing it can be extremely satisfying.
Clearwater steelheading starts with "catch and release" fishing as early as July and continue through January and February. The lower Clearwater opens to "catch and keep" fishing in September with the main section opening in October. The early fish tend to be smaller (in the 5 to 10 lb. range) with the larger fish entering the river in late October and November. Good fishing continues into late February and possibility into March.
The entire late season is weather dependent as high water will send these fish into their spawning areas.
March and April basically provides a terminal fishing opportunity. There may be a tremendous number of fish taken in the upper rivers. These fish however, are very close to, or are spawning and their ability to offer a strong fight is somewhat limited.
The pale, soft flesh is less than good table quality and most people smoke any fish retained.
Fishing this portion of the year the fish are near or on the beds they will be spawning in. Many sportsmen question the ethics of targeting fish in this situation; however, Idaho Fish and Game sanctions fishing and removal of any hatchery fish from the river so angling is a matter of personal choices.
The Clearwater River has had a nice spring Chinook fishery for the past several years. We are hopeful this trend continues as Salmon fishing has become a point of interest for anglers through the inland area.
This entire system also has a good trout fishery and some very large white fish. Whether it is winter steelhead, trout or whitefish the Clearwater can provide some great fishing throughout the year.
Visit north central Idaho and join the thousands that fish its beautiful clear streams.
Clearwater steelhead fishing is the most popular winter fishery in the area.
Advertisement: Snake River Guide Service guiding on the Clearwater River since 2000. Custom boats and only the finest guides makes for a great fishing experience. We provide a service that is unique and unsurpassed in quality.
A Steelhead Fishing Dream
This world famous river draws anglers from throughout the world. Prime Steelhead fishing is from October through February. March and April provide terminal fishing opportunities.
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INFORMATION:
ARTICLES:
2 part article discussing general requirements for licensing fishing guides in Washington...part 2. Questions to ask and evaluation of internet advertising...
TACKLE SHOPS:
AREA WATERS:
Grande Ronde River Granite Lake
Lake Bryan
Dworshack Reservoir
FISH:
Catfish |Snake River
Sturgeon
Page 2 Steelhead fishing
Trout
Fun article describing Salmon mania
affecting Idaho anglers.
