Statewide trout stocking highlights for March
Many of Idaho’s lakes and ponds are soon going to be bolstered with Idaho Fish and Game stocking over 60,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout this March. 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.
Many of the fisheries highlighted below are easy-to-access, family-friendly fishing destinations. All you need to get started is a fishing license and some basic tackle. Annual adult fishing licenses cost around $30, junior licenses (ages 14-17) cost $16, and youth (under 14) fish for free. Go to Fish and Game's online vendor to buy a license.
Clearwater Region
Kiwanis Park Pond — 900 rainbow trout
This convenient community pond is located next to the Snake River within walking distance of picnic shelters and a playground. The pond is stocked with rainbow trout to maintain high catch rates for anglers. Access this levee pond in Lewiston's Kiwanis Park along Snake River Avenue south of Bridge Street.
Mann Lake — 6,000 rainbow trout
Located in Nez Perce County, this lake provides a multi-species fishery. In addition to rainbow trout, anglers can catch bass, catfish, and a variety of panfish. Electric motors allowed only on this waterbody.
Southwest Region
Boise River, Strawberry Glen to Barber Dam — 864 rainbow trout
Boise River, Middleton to Eagle Road — 864 rainbow trout
The Boise River offers miles of fishing in one of the finest urban trout rivers in the country!
Caldwell Rotary Pond — 480 rainbow trout
Rotary Pond is a park-like setting. Plentiful bank fishing opportunity offers young anglers easy access to bluegills, bass and rainbow trout. A dock invites visitors of every mobility level to enjoy the fishing.
Duff Lane Pond — 195 rainbow trout
Located near Middleton, a small ramp is available for launching small boats and float craft. There are also two fishing docks. In addition to rainbow trout, bass and bluegill are often targeted by anglers.
Esther Simplot Pond — 360 rainbow trout
Located next to the Boise River, this park offers fishing, walking and biking paths, docks, shelters and a playground.
Horseshoe Bend Mill Pond — 390 rainbow trout
Just north of town, this pond features easy access and productive fishing for bass and trout in a pleasant setting next to the Payette River. This pond is one of more than 70 waters designated as Family Fishing Waters in Idaho. These waters have been established to make it easier for families to go and enjoy fishing. The rules are simple, and there are lots of fish to catch.
Magic Valley Region
Blair Trail Fishing Pond — 1,500 rainbow trout
Located on Little Canyon Creek, this remote desert water is surrounded by sagebrush solitude.
Cedar Creek Reservoir (Roseworth Reservoir) — 2,000 rainbow trout
If you are looking to get out of town for the day, this reservoir is a remote trout fishery in the high desert. It has great shoreline access as well as high-water and low-water boat ramps.
Freedom Park Pond — 1,000 rainbow trout
Located in Burley, this trout pond was built with young anglers in mind. It’s a great place to take the kids fishing!
Southeast Region
American Falls Reservoir — 18,000 rainbow trout
This large waterbody on the Snake River provides abundant boating opportunities. Additionally, there is good shoreline fishing near the West Side Boat Ramp located by the dam. These fish will be stocked once ice is off and conditions are conducive to stocking.
Bannock Reservoir — 1,000 rainbow trout
Located within the Portneuf Wellness Complex Park near the County Fairgrounds in Pocatello, this community park offers trout fishing and many recreational amenities nearby. Multiple docks provide excellent fishing access.
Bear River below Alexander Dam — 500 rainbow trout
Bear River below Oneida Dam — 2,250 rainbow trout
These fish will be stocked in the very scenic Oneida Narrows reach of the river below the dam. This popular section of the river offers the longest continuous public access along the entire Bear River.
Upper Snake Region
Gem Lake — 3,000 rainbow trout
Conveniently located near Idaho Falls at the Gem Lake Recreation Area.
Salmon Region
Hayden Creek Pond — 650 rainbow trout
This is a family-friendly fishing area in the high desert along Hayden Creek. Anglers will find ample bank fishing opportunities and a dock for anglers with limited mobility.
Kids Creek Pond — 300 rainbow trout
Located near downtown Salmon, this small fishing pond offers good trout fishing and is regularly stocked.