Get your early-season fishing fix at Hagerman WMA

Idaho Fish and Game’s Hagerman Wildlife Management Area opened for fishing on March 1, and with it, about a dozen ponds and lakes regularly stocked with trout and family-friendly accommodations that include bathrooms, picnic tables, handicap accessible dock, fish-viewing pond and more.

Thanks to its mild “banana-belt” climate, well-stocked waters, and amenities, anglers of all ages can look forward to casting lines and getting outdoors. It’s common to see groups of friends and families fishing, relaxing, and enjoying the scenery at this picturesque location, where springs gurgle out of canyon walls down to the Snake River.

Hagerman has long been a favorite destination for early-season anglers thanks to its mild climate, and ample fishing opportunity and Fish and Game’s Hagerman Hatchery keeps the ponds brimming with catchable rainbow trout, and a few surprises.

Before the fishing opener, hatchery crews stocked roughly 4,000 rainbow trout, including the area’s legendary “banana trout” — a yellow-colored rainbow trout variant that’s eye-catching, fun to fish for, and, despite some reports, does not taste like bananas.

As spring progresses and the weather warms, hatchery crews supply a steady supply of trout, and the fish become more active, offering plenty of chances to reel in fish throughout the season. In addition to trout, many ponds support warmwater species such as bass and bluegill, providing variety for anglers who enjoy targeting different kinds of fish.

The wildlife management area and nearby rivers, creeks and states parks make this a great day trip or weekend destination to fish, watch wildlife, and see a unique part of Idaho. 

To learn more, check out Idaho Fish and Game’s Fishing Planner to, well, plan your next fishing outing this spring.