Dworshak Reservoir

Dworshak dam was constructed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in 1971. The dam is 718 feet tall and is the largest straight axis dam in North America. The reservoir is 53 miles in length, has 16,000 surface acres, a maximum depth of 636 feet with 183 miles of shoreline. Primitive campsites, accessible by boat only, are located in isolated coves along the shoreline. Additional camping and access information can be obtained through the Corp of Engineers visitor center located at the dam.

Kokanee
Kokanee salmon, introduced in 1972, is the most predominate species of angler interest. Dworshak kokanee have been noted for their good size. These open water fish are most effectively caught while trolling from a boat, using flashing pop-gear along with lures, such as the ever popular wedding ring spinner. The rubber snubber (as illustrated below) is important in preventing the tearing of the soft mouth of the kokanee when the hook is set.

Trout
Rainbow trout, stocked as fingerlings, grow rapidly and provide for a healthy winter fishery. Fishing for rainbow is mainly done from the shore, using a common rod and reel set up baited with worms, eggs, marshmallow or power bait.

Smallmouth Bass
A good smallmouth bass population provides an exciting fishery for anglers who get out to the steep, rocky shoreline areas. The reservoir produced the Idaho State record smallmouth bass in 1982, weighing 7lbs 5.6 oz. and was 20 3/4 inches in length.

Jigging rubber grubs or jigs is an effective technique used for catching smallmouth bass. If fishing from a boat, cast into the rocky shore-line and retrieve in the irregular pattern.

Early season flyfishing for smallmouth, with nymphs and poppers, can add a thrill to your fishing experience.

Other Species
The reservoir also has limited populations of largemouth bass, native cutthroat and crappie which adds to the angler opportunity year-round. Bull trout are also present and anglers should note that there is a NO harvest regulation on bull trout, and if caught must be released immediately.

Be sure to visit the Dworshak National Fish Hatchery and the Idaho Department of Fish and Game's Clearwater Anadromous Hatchery. Both are located one mile downstream of the dam and provide information and viewing opportunities to help you learn more about the native chinook salmon and steelhead trout of the Clearwater River.