Ask Fish and Game: Angler Access

Q. Do I need permission to fish along a side channel of the Boise River? A. No. Under Idaho law, anglers do not need permission to fish along a navigable stream as long as they stay within the normal high-water marks and enter and exit the stream from a public right-of-way, such as a road or bridge. Anglers may cross private land only with permission, except to go around an obstruction with no other means of getting around - but they must use the shortest most direct route around the obstruction. For details, refer to Page 48 of the current Idaho 2011-2012 Fishing Seasons and Rules booklet, available at fishing license vendors, Fish and Game offices and online at http://fishandgame.idaho.gov.