Beginning near Crater Lake in southern Oregon, the Rogue River tends to be divided into three sections -- lower, middle, and upper -- along its 200-mile course. I've heard it said to be "an angler's paradise." The upper and middle sections offer a plethora of opportunities for more than just fishing -- hiking, camping, and white-water rafting are all popular. Serious fisherman, however, should concentrate on the lower portion. If you're strictly looking for good fish, specifically King and Silver salmon, the lower section of the Rogue is your best bet since it has great prospects in the fall and spring.

Flowing from the western slopes of Mt. Adams, the north fork of Lewis River is among the most popular in Washington. Before meeting the Columbia River, the Lewis River passes through three dams (Swift, Yale, Merwin). This lower portion of the river, with ample bank and boat access, provides plenty of Coho and Chinook salmon as well as steelhead. Since the lower Lewis has a reputation for productivity, don't be surprised to see fellow anglers, especially in spots near the salmon hatchery and Cedar Creek Hole. Because there are a number of protected species, check with the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for current and updated information on catch limits.

Part of the Snake River, the 57-mile long Brownlee Reservoir is the uppermost of the Hells Canyon recreation area. Many have claimed Brownlee to be the best warm water fishery in the western United States, and the reservoir is among the most heavily fished waters in Idaho. Expect smallmouth bass, catfish, and crappie; don't be surprised to see perch, bluegill, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout, either. The reservoir acts as the border between Oregon and Idaho, so anglers who possess a fishing license in either state can fish the reservoir as long as they do not fish from the shore of the state in which they do not possess a valid license. I'd have to say this particular spot is my personal favorite. Nothing beats floating peacefully in the water on a hot summer day casting and catching all day long.

Located in South central Idaho within the Minidoka Wildlife Refuge. Lake Walcott is administered by the Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Services.

Created by Minidoka Dam, which is part of the Mindoka Project. Boat fishing on Lake Walcott is permitted from April 1 through September 30 in designated areas. Approximately 5 miles of shoreline are available for year-round bank fishing.

Reservoir acre feet and total reservoir capacity and cubic feet/second release rates for rivers below Upper Snake River Basin reservoirs and select river locations are updated daily and graphically provided.

Historic Walcott Park, located on the west end of Lake Walcott, once housed an experimental farm, housing for Bureau of Reclamation workers, a resort, and a Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp. Stone retaining walls built by CCC workers still stand. A kiosk on the park's south end describes the park's history with a series of interpretive panels.

Located in the northern part of Clearwater National Forest, Kelly Creek is said to be known by fly fishermen from all over the world as the premier fly fishing water in Idaho. In addition to its beautiful scenery, Kelly Creek is an excellent river to fish, specifically for westslope cutthroat, or "cuts" as the locals say. You'll also see mountain whitefish, rainbows, and the occasional bull trout. Seasoned anglers at Kelly Creek will tell you the fish are plentiful and usually bite regardless of any particular fly. As they say, "Tight lines at Kelly Creek, Idaho."

In your haste to find great fishing, don't forget to pack important essentials. Of course, you'll have the obvious -- a rod, tackle, and a fillet knife. Pack a fishing light, too. Even though many boats come equipped with fishing lights, bringing a hand-held fishing light will add security to your trip. I'd recommend getting a quality flex light for optimal beam direction and hands-free use. You just never know when a fishing light will come in handy.
~Richard McNeal, 2009.