American Falls Reservoir

At full pool, American Falls Reservoir is the largest reservoir in the state of Idaho. This 56,000 acre reservoir was created in 1927 by the Bureau of Reclamation. Primarily built as a water storage reservoir for irrigation, it also provides electric power, and flood control protection. Historically, American Falls Reservoir has been one of the best fisheries in Idaho. However, the fishery is dependent upon the availability of water to maintain the minimum pool necessary to carry over fish from year to year.

Located near the city of American Falls, adjacent to Interstate 86, the reservoir is easy to find. Numerous access sites, complete with ramps and docks, make it easy to use for boaters as well as shore anglers. The Sportsman Park access, near the dam at Aberdeen, is particularly popular.

Equipment
If you are just getting started fishing, the equipment you will need to fish are quite basic, inexpensive and easy to find. Look for a light to medium weight rod, usually about 5' to 5 1/2' long with a matching reel loaded with 6-10 pound line. Tackle will vary depending on the fish you pursue. You may want to start with a standard set-up as illustrated below. Worms, cut bait or fish eggs work well as bait.

Trout
Rainbow trout are by far the most popular fish in American Falls Reservoir. Fish weighing 5-6 pounds are not uncommon. Cutthroat and brown trout are also found.

Shoreline Fishing
Shoreline fishing with worms and eggs can be good early in the year. As water temperatures climb in the summer, fish move to deeper water near the dam where boating anglers have better success trolling with spinners, rapalas or pop-gear. As waters cool again in the fall, reservoir wide fishing again picks up.

Catfish, Perch and Crappie
Bullhead catfish are relatively few in number, but those caught are good sized. They can be caught with worms or stinkbait still fished on the bottom. The perch in American Falls Reservoir can be caught with basic gear baited with worms or cutbait. They are schooling fish and once a school is found, the fishing can be very fast. Some crappie can be caught early in the year in shallow coves or inlets. Actively fish, by casting and retrieving repeatedly, a skirted lead-headed jig or worm tipped hook.

Ice Fishing
Ice fishing can greatly expand your fishing season, and provide a great outdoor activity for those long winter months. Equipment is simple, short rods or tip-ups, and ice auger, a scoop, and some warm clothes. Add a few lures such as leaded head jigs or Swedish pimples baited with worms, maggots or cut-bait, and you'll be catching fish. Be sure to check the ice before venturing out.

Angler Note: If gaining access to American Falls Reservoir through the Shoshone-Bannock Reservation a tribal permit is required. Please check with the tribal office for further information.