Fishing the Salmon River Idaho: A Complete Guide

You will find multiple fish species, unique wildlife, and remote and breathtaking scenery when fishing the Salmon River Idaho.

The river is renowned for its abundant fish species, such as bull trout, rainbows, multiple salmon species, cutthroat trout, bass, white sturgeon, and even whitefish.

In some areas, the river is so remote you will need a boat or need to hike for hours to get to your spots. Other areas are more accessible, and many anglers will catch fish from bridges and near roads.

Best Fishing Types	Prime Seasons	Notable Locations	Recommended Methods
Trout Fishing	Late Spring – Fall	Near Salmon, Idaho	Fly Fishing
Steelhead Fishing	Feb-April, Oct-Nov	Near Salmon, Idaho	Fly Fishing, Backtrolling
Salmon Fishing	Mid-Fall, Late Winter	Lower River Stretches	Trolling, Bottom Bouncing
King Salmon	Mid-May through July	Salmon River Canyon	Various Techniques

The Majestic Salmon River: A Fishing Paradise

Winding through the heart of Idaho, the Salmon River, often referred to as “The River of No Return,” unveils a canvas where nature paints its most exquisite scenes. From the lush Sawtooth and Lemhi Valleys to the rugged terrains with cliffs and canyons. This is part of the allure when fishing Idaho’s salmon river.

An angler could spend weeks and never fish the same piece of water.

Scenic Beauty and Wildlife Encounters

Anglers often find themselves amidst a plethora of wildlife, including mule deer and bighorn sheep, enhancing the fishing trip with moments where nature and wildlife converge in a harmonious display.

Fishing The Salmon River Idaho: Species

Trout Fishing On the Salmon River, Idaho

Trout can be scattered throughout the Salmon River, but the upper Salmon River has some of the best habitat for wild trout and is easier for trout anglers to read the water, find fish, and land fish.

Fly fishing with nymphs when the fish aren’t rising, but good hatches are available for dry fly fishing during the summer.

• Best Times and Areas: In early spring, when the river has ice-cold water from run-off, the fishing is generally slow. Late spring to early fall, especially near Salmon, Idaho, provides more optimal conditions for trout fishing. Good hopper hatches and larger hatches occur in July and August. The middle fork is also excellent for trout fishing.
• Trout Species: Engage with various trout species, including cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and bull trout, each offering a unique angling experience.
• Methods: Using a fly rod is popular, but many anglers will use spinning rods and reels and cast lures or drift baits.
• Baits and Lures: Artificial flies, spinners, worms, or dry flies that mimic local insects all work for the trout.

North Fork: The North Fork of the Salmon River is another option that proved good fishing for trout in the summer.

Steelhead Fishing On the Salmon River, Idaho

• Location: Lower and main stem of the Salmon River and good areas for catching steelhead. Look for areas around the mouth of small tributaries, seams, pockets, pools, and slower water along the river’s edges.
• Prime Times: Late February through late March and mid-October to mid-November are your best bets for steelhead fishing. There are steelhead in the river in December and January, but it can be icy and slow fishing.
• Methods and Baits: Fly fishing, drift fishing, plunking, and back trolling with roe, jigs, plugs, or spinners are effective for catching steelhead on the Salmon River. Back bouncing is also effective in the larger and deep pools.

Salmon Fishing On the Salmon River, Idaho

King Salmon Fishing On the Salmon River, Idaho

• When to Visit: Seasons can fluctuate, but typically, King Salmon make their appearance from mid-May, continuing through June and into July. Seasonal weather and conditions will dictate run times and it take time for the salmon to migrate up from the Pacific Ocean.
• The Experience: Employing a variety of techniques, from trolling to bottom bouncing, anglers can engage with these splendid fish, creating memories that linger long after the trip.

Before using any method or any bait, check the Idaho Department Of Fish And Game for rules, regulations, and updates on fishing closures.

Best Fishing Guides on the Salmon River, Idaho

Whether you’re a seasoned angler or trying your hand at fishing for the first time, these guides offer a wealth of knowledge and an enhanced fishing experience.

• Row Adventures offers walk and wade and drift boat fishing trips near their home base of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.⁠
• Aggipah River Trips offers a variety of fishing trips, guiding anglers through the best spots on the Salmon River.
• Salmon River Anglers provides guided fly fishing trips, helping you navigate the rich waters of the river.
• Idaho River Journeys offers guided fishing trips, ensuring you explore the prime fishing spots on the Salmon River.

Rest and Relax: Lodges Near the Salmon River, Idaho

• Redfish Lake Lodge provides a serene getaway with stunning views and easy access to fishing spots. Redfish Lake Lodge may offer guiding services.
• Triangle C Cabins offers a rustic and comfortable stay, ensuring you’re energized for your fishing adventures.
• River Dance Lodge ensures a comfortable and scenic stay, keeping you close to the vibrant life of the Salmon River.

Disclaimer: All information on this page is for entertainment purposes. It is your responsibility to check the official rules and regulations.

Additional Resources

• Idaho Department of Fish and Game – Salmon River Corridor – Salmon
• The Nature Conservancy in Idaho
• Visit Idaho