It's trout stocking time!

If you're looking for a good way to kick off summer, look no further. Over 26,000 catchable-size (10 to 12 inch) rainbow trout will be stocked in the Panhandle Region in June.

Many of the waters 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: Online; Phone: 800-554-8685; At a Fish and Game office; At a license vendor.

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. 

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 offices or most sporting goods stores statewide.