Idaho Family Fishing Waters

Each Fish and Game region has Family Fishing Waters. They are a few choice spots close to home geared toward families and the likelihood you'll catch fish. These waters are easy to reach and the rules are simple. Click on a region to explore...

Panhandle |

Clearwater |

Southwest North |

Southwest South |

Magic Valley |

Southeast |

Upper Snake |

Salmon |

Family Fishing Waters Home

Simple Rules

Year-round fishing season
Limit of six trout and six bass
No limits on other species
No limit on length of a fish
Buy a fishing license if you are 14 or older.

More Information

Getting Started Tips - More tips on fishing with kids.
Fishing Planner - To plan your next fishing trip, click here for the Idaho Fishing Planner.
Free Fishing Day - Look for special fishing activities in your region on Free Fishing Day every June.
Fish Identification - Learn about Idaho's game fish.
Fish Stocking - Check out areas recently stocked.
Buy a License - Buy your fishing license today!
Family Fishing Videos - Follow the link for more video stories.
Regional Info - Find even more outdoor information by region.

Fishing with Kids
To keep fishing fun, be sure to take breaks, explore nature, eat, drink and play, too. Bring these extra items to ensure a great day outdoors.

Snacks and drinks
Hat, sunglasses and extra set of clothes
Sun block and mosquito repellant
Band-aids and antiseptic for cuts and scrapes

Equipment
An easy way to get started is to purchase a pre-packaged rod and reel kit found in any sporting good store. Or you can assemble the pieces yourself. What you need is:

Standard fishing gear - a light to medium weight rod
Easy-to-use spinning reel with 4-8 lb. line
Hooks, sinkers and a bobber
Common baits are worms, eggs and maggots along with a marshmallow to hold the bait up off the bottom.
Lures can also be used. These vary with each type of fish.

Remember to…

Pick up after yourself. Try to leave a fishing site cleaner than you found it.
Respect other people's fishing space.
Clean fishing gear of plants and other debris when you're done.
Do not use live fish for bait.
Do not transport live fish.