Idaho may not be the first place you think of when it comes to bass fishing, but the state has an abundance of excellent bass fishing locations that should not be overlooked. From small streams to large reservoirs, Idaho offers a diverse range of opportunities for anglers looking to catch this popular game fish. In this guide, we will cover everything you need to know about bass fishing in Idaho.

Best Spots for Bass Fishing in Idaho

Idaho has several great lakes and rivers that offer excellent bass fishing opportunities. Here are a few of the best spots:

1. Lake Coeur d'Alene: This large lake in northern Idaho has an excellent reputation for producing bigger-sized largemouth and smallmouth bass.

2. C.J. Strike Reservoir: Located near Mountain Home, this reservoir is home to largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. The reservoir has significant fishing pressure, and the best fishing is during the spring and fall.

3. Brownlee Reservoir: Located in southwestern Idaho on the Oregon/Idaho border, this reservoir offers excellent smallmouth bass fishing opportunities and if the Bass are not biting the crappie and catfishing are excellent also.

4. Swan Fall: Swan Falls Dam is located on the Snake River South of Kuna. It has excellent largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing opportunities in both a river fishing setting below the dam and lake fishing up above. Bass fishing below the dam can be very productive and as simple as tossing out a jig tipped with worm.

5. American Falls Reservoir: Located near Pocatello, this reservoir offers a chance to catch both smallmouth and largemouth bass.

6. Snake River: Any accessible portion of the snake river has Bass fishing potential. While CJ Strike, Brownlee, and Swan Falls might get a lot of attention, just about anywhere you can get a lure in the water is worth trying. One thing to note is that in early spring parts of the river can become swamped with seaweed and debris stirred up from spring runoff flows making fishing difficult. Fishing the mouth of rivers and streams or back flows out of the main current can prove productive when spring flows are high.

Techniques for Bass Fishing in Idaho

The techniques used for bass fishing in Idaho will depend on the time of day and the location being fished. Here are some effective bass fishing techniques that can be used in Idaho:

1. Use Soft Plastic Lures: Soft plastic lures such as worms, lizards, and crawfish are popular choices for bass fishing in Idaho. These lures come in various colors and sizes to mimic the appearance of natural prey.

2. Topwater Fishing: Fishing with topwater lures is a thrilling way to catch bass. The best times for this technique are during the early morning and late evening when the water is calm.

3. Jig Fishing: Jig fishing is a versatile technique that can be used in both deep and shallow waters. The key is to use jigs that match the color and size of the natural prey in the area.

4. Crankbait Fishing: Crankbaits can mimic the appearance and action of baitfish and crawfish. These lures are effective when fishing in deeper waters.

5. Drop Shot Fishing: This technique is effective when fishing in deeper waters with small finesse baits. This technique offers a chance to catch bass that are less active.

Bass fishing in Idaho offers anglers a chance to experience excellent fishing and natural beauty. By following the above techniques and fishing in the right locations, anglers can experience some thrilling fishing opportunities. Whether it's fishing for largemouth or smallmouth bass, Idaho offers fantastic bass fishing locations for anglers of all levels of experience. So grab your gear, hit the water, and enjoy everything that Idaho's bass fishing has to offer!