Navigation Home - AA-Fishing Lakes Fish

Fishing C J Strike Reservoir

AKA: C J Strike

Pick A LakePick A SpeciesPick A State

By AA-Fishing Staff Writers

C J Strike Reservoir, ID

Popular Fish Species C J Strike Reservoir, ID


C J Strike Reservoir Popular Fish - Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fishing for rainbow trout in C J Strike Reservoir continues to be very productive for local anglers. Fish for rainbow trout here with worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic their preferred prey. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.


C J Strike Reservoir Popular Fish - Smallmouth Bass

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Feisty Smallmouth bass continue to be a favorite of many locals at C J Strike Reservoir, as they are tough fighters and exciting to catch. Fishing for smallmouth bass is good anytime they are shallow - in spring, during high water, mornings in summer and during warmer fall afternoons. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap, and around grass use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In winter, spend your time on deeper structure with small worms, jigs and spoons. Largemouth bass also reside here in good numbers. When the lake freezes over, consider ice fishing for smallies.


C J Strike Reservoir Popular Fish - Crappie

Crappie Fishing

C J Strike Reservoir has good populations of both black crappie and white crappie. These two species generally school by with their own, but once located around cover, you may find that you catch both species, due to the fact they often share the same cover. Crappie fishing can be found in varying size schools, hanging around brush, vegetation, wood or other cover. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing is often a great way to catch a quick limit of crappie. Using a fish finder any time of year can help locate these crappie schools, which tend to stack vertically around cover. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here. In spring and fall focus on the 8 to 12 foot range. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. As the crappie move deep in summer and winter, follow points out deep, as well as find ledges near channels, especially areas with brush or timber in deeper water.


Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, white crappie, rainbow trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish, yellow perch, chinook salmon and white sturgeon at C J Strike Reservoir in Idaho.

C J Strike Reservoir Fishing Video

At the relatively low elevation of 2,450, C J Strike Reservoir is an ideal lake for both cold-water and warm-water species of fish. Due to this condition the lake has populations of trout, bass, crappie, bluegill, catfish, perch and salmon.

C J Strike Reservoir, located in southwestern Idaho, is a hidden gem for fishing enthusiasts. This expansive reservoir, formed by the Bruneau and Snake Rivers, offers a serene environment and excellent angling opportunities. Anglers are drawn to C J Strike Reservoir for its diverse fish populations and the chance to catch some of Idaho's popular species.

One of the prized catches in C J Strike Reservoir is the largemouth bass. The reservoir is known for its healthy population of largemouth bass, providing anglers with thrilling battles and the opportunity to reel in trophy-sized fish. Additionally, the reservoir is home to other popular species such as crappie, bluegill, and catfish. Anglers can employ a variety of techniques, from casting lures to using live bait, to target these sought-after species.

C J Strike Reservoir embodies the spirit of Idaho's natural beauty and outdoor recreation. Whether you're casting a line for largemouth bass, enjoying a day of boating on the water, or spending nights camping under the stars, C J Strike Reservoir promises an unforgettable experience. Its diverse fish populations, ample boating opportunities, and picturesque camping areas make it a must-visit destination for those seeking angling adventures and relaxation in Idaho's southwest region.

This 6,700-acre lake in the southwest part of the state has around 100 miles of shoreline. Situated close to Bruneau and Grandview, ID the lake has multiple access points off highways 51 and 78. When ice conditions are present this is a good destination for catching trout, sunfish and perch by ice fishing - especially on the Bruneau Arm of the lake. Pleasure and fishing boats have no HP restrictions and there several boat ramps from which to choose. Fishing from the bank is popular here with shoreline access available at campgrounds, boat ramps and quite a few places around the lake where the roads veer near the water. Most of these shoreline access areas are also good for portage of a canoe or kayak.

Fishing Boats For Rent In Idaho

Primary fish species residing in C J Strike Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Largemouth bass Smallmouth bass Channel catfish Black crappie White crappie Rainbow trout Bluegill Pumpkinseed Sunfish Yellow Perch Chinook salmon Sturgeon

C J Strike Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

C J Strike Reservoir is not only a haven for fishing but also offers ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts. With its vast expanse of water, boaters can enjoy leisurely cruises, engage in water sports, or explore the reservoir's scenic beauty. Whether you prefer pontoon boats, fishing boats, or personal watercraft, C J Strike Reservoir provides plenty of space for recreational boating activities.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

C J Strike Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off Strike Dam Cutoff Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Cottonwood Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, southwest side, off Marsing Murphy Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Highway 51 Boat Ramps
Located in the northeast section of the lake, one at each end of the Highway 51 Bridge, these are two-lane, concrete ramps with docks and gravel parking.

Fishing Guides On C J Strike Reservoir

Jones Sport Fishing - crappie, bass, trout, sturgeon

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Idaho Fishing License.

For those looking to extend their fishing adventure, camping near C J Strike Reservoir is a fantastic option. The reservoir offers several campgrounds with scenic surroundings, where visitors can set up tents or park their RVs. Camping allows anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to fully immerse themselves in the tranquil environment, enjoy campfire evenings, and wake up to beautiful sunrises over the water.

Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby

Cove Recreation Site Campground - 208 384-3300

Bruneau Dunes State Park Campground - 208 366-7919

Cottonwood RV Park Campground - 208 587-4426

Scout Park Campground - Unknown

Lodging Nearby

Owyhee Bed & Breakfast - 208 908-2615

Hilander Motel - 208 587-3311

Towne Center Motel - 208 587-3373

C J Strike Reservoir ID Map - Fishing & Camping Areas

Contact Information

C J Strike Reservoir
C.J. Strike Wildlife Management Area
ID-78
Bruneau, ID 83604
208 465-8465

 

Fishing lakes in each state.

AL Fishing Lakes AR Fishing Lakes AZ Fishing Lakes CA Fishing Lakes CO Fishing Lakes CT Fishing Lakes DC Fishing Lakes DE Fishing Lakes FL Fishing Lakes GA Fishing Lakes HI Fishing Lakes IA Fishing Lakes ID Fishing Lakes
IL Fishing Lakes IN Fishing Lakes KS Fishing Lakes KY Fishing Lakes LA Fishing Lakes MA Fishing Lakes MD Fishing Lakes ME Fishing Lakes MI Fishing Lakes MN Fishing Lakes MO Fishing Lakes MS Fishing Lakes MT Fishing Lakes
NC Fishing Lakes ND Fishing Lakes NE Fishing Lakes NH Fishing Lakes NJ Fishing Lakes NM Fishing Lakes NV Fishing Lakes NY Fishing Lakes OH Fishing Lakes OK Fishing Lakes OR Fishing Lakes PA Fishing Lakes
RI Fishing Lakes SC Fishing Lakes SD Fishing Lakes TN Fishing Lakes TX Fishing Lakes UT Fishing Lakes VA Fishing Lakes VT Fishing Lakes WA Fishing Lakes WI Fishing Lakes WV Fishing Lakes WY Fishing Lakes

070924