Statewide trout stocking highlights for May

Many of Idaho’s lakes and ponds are soon going to be bolstered with Idaho Fish and Game stocking over 390,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout this May. 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.

Cocolalla Lake — 3,300 rainbow trout

This diverse fishery affords anglers the opportunity to catch catfish, bass, perch, crappie, and a variety of trout species.

Gene Day Pond — 800 rainbow trout

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

Jewel Lake — 1,620 rainbow trout

A peaceful lake where anglers can catch rainbow trout, channel catfish and lots of bluegill that will thrill young anglers. There is a single fishing dock to help with access in this forested and picturesque rural setting.

Kelso Lake — 5,000 rainbow trout

With easy access to this quiet forested lake, you will find good fishing opportunities from a large dock. It's a great place for a small boat, kayak or canoe along Idaho Birding Trail No. 14, so bring your binoculars!

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.

Smith Lake — 600 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.

Spicer Pond — 1,600 rainbow trout

This is a small, easily accessed pond next to the St. Maries River near the town of St. Maries.

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.

— Idaho Department of Fish and Game