Ice Fishing in Idaho

Avid anglers reel in one of the biggest pike they've ever caught while ice fishing in the Panhandle. The ice fishing experience will be one these anglers will never forget. "What an exciting moment to watch my son catch his largest pike." said Mike Nunemacher. 

Ice fishing on Ririe Reservoir has been productive this winter for anglers seeking kokanee and yellow perch, with some anglers catching both species in the same hole!

Panhandle ice fishing opportunities have been somewhat discouraging this season, but with a cold front coming through the region and a few tips from one of our biologist, you'll be catching fish in no time!

Get the latest ice conditions report for Cascade and Payette lakes.

Anglers spent a record number of hours fishing the hard deck at Henrys Lake during the 2020 ice fishing season with over twice the total number of estimated fishing hours than the 2019 ice fishing season. Despite this amount of angling effort, anglers harvested fewer trout during the 2020 ice fishing season than the 2019 season.

Due to current surface conditions, we do not recommend bringing wheeled-ATVs onto Lake Cascade at this time. Additionally, those using snowmobiles should use caution and avoid staying in one spot for too long as to sink and/or freeze their machine in a slush area. Expect slush areas to be partially frozen in the morning and thaw as the day progresses, making travel difficult from one area to another on the lake.

Ready to hit the ice? This month’s Wildlife Express covers everything you need to know about ice fishing, including tips on equipment, technique, ice safety, and more.