Guide To The Best Fishing Spots For Catfish In Idaho

All about fishing for flathead and channel catfish in ID.

Lakes in Idaho which have standing populations of catfish, or lakes which are stocked with catfish, include the likes of Brownlee Reservoir, C J Strike Reservoir, Cascade Reservoir, Crane Creek Reservoir, Hells Canyon Reservoir, Lake Lowell, Mann Lake, Mud Lake, Paddock Valley Reservoir, Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir and Spirit Lake all have healthy populations of catfish.

Click the images and links above for species details.

What's the best bait for catfish in Idaho?

Choose from the top 5 all-time catfish baits and try them on local waters. Appealing to the keen sense of smell and taste could turn a so-so day into a memorable event.

Mann Lake served up the state record channel catfish.

Brownlee Reservoir was home to the state record flathead catfish.

There are many species of catfish and even more ways to catch them. Adults range in size from less than a pound to hundreds of pounds. Catfish are found in all types of water including ponds, streams, lakes and rivers throughout Idaho. There are even species which spend a limited amount of time on dry land. Big giant catfish put up a very noble fight once hooked.

Catfish Fishing Video

Additional catfishing information resources.

Catfish Conservation Group

U.S. Catfish Anglers Tournaments

Planet Catfish

Most catfish are considered bottom feeders to one extent or another. They will generally eat anything that can get in their mouth. Their strongest sense is smell which they use to locate potential food sources. Capitalizing on this sense is the primary weapon in your search for these creatures. Aggressive catfish have been caught on most types of fast moving bass lures so don't under estimate their ability to catch live bait.

Information for states with catfish.