Free Fishing Day events scheduled in the Upper Snake

Saturday, June 14, is Idaho’s Free Fishing Day and the Upper Snake Region is celebrating by loaning poles and bait at Jim Moore Pond, near Roberts, and Trail Creek Pond, near Victor. The equipment check-out is free and will run from 9 am -1 pm. Come and get some tips from the experts and experience how fun and easy fishing can be. 

Jim Moore Pond-    This is a great place for kids to chase small perch with lots of biting action close to Idaho Falls. In addition to yellow perch, anglers may also catch rainbow trout and the occasional catfish. From Roberts State Hwy 48/E 650 N, travel south on N Bassett Rd about 2.5 miles. Turn west on E 400 N and continue 0.4 mile to the pond.

Trail Creek Pond-  Trail Creek Pond is about two miles southeast of Victor near the Wyoming border on State Hwy 33 (toward Jackson, WY). This small scenic pond next to Trail Creek is in the lush Teton Basin. One of the most consistent kids' fisheries in the area, it is easily fished from the bank, with trails and picnic tables around the perimeter.

Remember, you don’t have to enjoy a specific event to get the benefits of Free Fishing Day!  Just get outside and enjoy a day of fishing without need of a license!  All other fishing rules apply, so make sure to check the fishing regulations before you head off to “reel in” some fun.

Fishing for stocked rainbow trout, particularly in community ponds, is a great way to introduce new anglers to the sport by using simple set-ups like worm/marshmallow combinations or commercial baits like Power Bait or Crave, either near the bottom or below a bobber. Fish and Game’s Learn to Fish webpage offers diagrams for basic bait rigs and more. 

When fishing with kids, remember to keep it fun, short, and simple.  For other tips, see 10 tips for taking kids fishing. 

While a fishing license is not required on Idaho's Free Fishing Day, all other rules apply.  Be sure to review the 2025-2027 Idaho Fishing Seasons and Rules booklet for the water where you plan to go fishing. 

Anglers can find more detailed information on Idaho’s fishing destinations including maps, facilities, fish species present, stocking records, and fishing rules by visiting the Fishing Planner on Fish and Game’s website.