Fishing Dworshak Reservoir

AKA: Dworshak Lake

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Dworshak Reservoir, ID

Popular Fish Species Dworshak Reservoir, ID

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Smallmouth bass are a favorite of many locals at Dworshak Reservoir, as they are plentiful and easy to catch, once located. 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.

Kokanee Salmon

Sockeye salmon which remain landlocked, never migrating to the ocean, are called kokanee salmon. Typically kokanee average about one to two pounds. As one of the premiere kokanee fishing lakes in Idaho, Dworshak Reservoir has the largest population of kokanee salmon and delivers plenty of fish above average. These tasty fish school in lakes at depths which remain at ideal temperatures of between 48 and 58 degrees. Once this depth is identified, use a fish finder to locate schools. Use small lures trolled at the appropriate depth. The can also be caught using corn, but the main way they are caught is using flashy lures which they attack when the lure intrudes their space.

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Even though smallmouth bass and kokanee salmon get the most attention at Dworshak Reservoir, this year fishing for rainbow trout is on the rise. Catching rainbow trout here often involves using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, and 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.

Dworshak Reservoir Fishing Video

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for smallmouth bass, black crappie, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, kokanee salmon and steelhead at Dworshak Reservoir in Idaho.

Extending more than 50 miles, Dworshak Reservoir covers 16,500 surface acres providing excellent fishing lake in the northwest part of the state. Much of the 175 miles of shoreline is mostly accessible by boat. Dworshak Reservoir is home to kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, crappie and catfish. Check out fishing reports for popular species at this lake.

There are roads surrounding the lake, some primitive, that do provide some access for fishing from the bank. Shoreline fishing is available along sections of the roads that run close to the lake, at both ends of Dent Bridge, and the campgrounds and boat launch ramps.