OUTDOORS Fish fill Panhandle lakes
Photo courtesy Idaho Fish and Game A child fishes for stocked rainbow trout.
By T.J. ROSS
IDFG Regional Communications Manager
More fish are on their way to the Panhandle in July. Over 6,500 catchable-size (10- to 12-inch) rainbow trout will be stocked in the Panhandle Region this month.
Date, Lake and number of fish
July 4-9 — Day Rock Pond, 500; Dismal Lake, 450; Elsie Lake, 675; Gene Day Pond, 1,000; Lower Glidden Lake, 675.
July 11-15 — Lucky Friday Pond, 900; Steam Boat Pond, 1,000; Elsie Lake, 675; and Lower Glidden Lake, 675.
Many of the waters highlighted above are easy to access, family-friendly fishing destinations. All you need to get started is a fishing license and some basic tackle. Annual adult fishing licenses cost around $30, junior licenses (ages 14-17) cost $16, and youth under 14 fish for free. To purchase a license call 800-554-8685
Fishing for stocked rainbow trout, particularly in community ponds, is a great way to introduce new anglers to the sport by using simple (and relatively thrifty) set-ups like worm/marshmallow combinations or commercial baits like Power Bait or Crave, either near the bottom or below a bobber. The Learn to Fish webpage offers diagrams for basic bait rigs.
Most Idaho waters are open to fishing year-round, but some may have slightly different rules. Be sure to pick up a 2022-24 Idaho Fishing Seasons and Rules booklet, which outlines season dates, special regulations and bag limits at any Idaho Fish and Game office or most sporting goods stores statewide.