Statewide stocking highlights for June

Many of Idaho’s lakes and ponds are soon going to be bolstered with Idaho Fish and Game stocking over 275,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout this June. 

Wondering if the stocking trucks are going to be backing up to your favorite fishing hole? We asked our Fish and Game hatchery staff to boil down some of the most notable stocking highlights coming to your local fishery this month.

Fishing for stocked rainbow trout can be a great way to introduce budding anglers to the sport by using simple, inexpensive setups. Many of these fisheries highlighted below are easy to access, family-friendly fishing destinations. 

All you need to get started is a fishing license, and youth (under 14) fish for free. If you need a license, purchasing one on the fly is easy to do with your smartphone — and you can start fishing immediately.

Panhandle Region

Elsie Lake — 810 rainbow trout

Offering excellent fishing for anglers of all levels, you will also find a beautiful setting. It's a drive-to mountain lake, but the road is mountainous and rough.

Fernan Lake — 5,650 rainbow trout

A popular fishing spot 10 minutes from downtown Coeur d'Alene, anglers of all abilities can enjoy fishing from floating docks, miles of shoreline or from boats.

Gene Day Pond — 800 rainbow trout

Also known as Osburn Pond, this water is stocked regularly, so catch rates should be good!

Post Falls Park Pond — 800 rainbow trout

This park offers a great fishing spot for kids and anglers with special needs. Anglers can easily fish the small pond from a fishing bridge, shore or fishing platforms. Take some time to also enjoy the adjacent park, nature trails, falls and picnic areas.

Round Lake — 2,500 rainbow trout

Beginners and experts alike will enjoy fishing this scenic lake. The full-feature park offers hiking trails and a swimming beach.

Sinclair Lake — 300 rainbow trout

A small, quiet lake beside the Moyie River, this is ideal for beginning and skilled anglers to enjoy good trout fishing.

Smith Lake — 1,080 rainbow trout

Located north of Bonners Ferry, diverse fishing opportunities are offered here in a peaceful, forested setting. There is a Forest Service campground and picnic area nearby.

Steamboat Pond — 600 rainbow trout

This easily accessible pond is located next to the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River. Anglers who might find fishing the river too difficult will enjoy harvesting a few trout from this pond.