IDFG releases March trout stocking schedule

The following is a statement from the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.

Just when you thought it was time to start trading snowshoes for wading shoes, Mother Nature had other plans. That said, Idaho Fish and Game hatchery personnel will bring more than 23,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout to Southeast Region fisheries this month. Get them!

Here’s a quick summary of what you need to know about some of these fun fisheries.

American Falls Reservoir – 18,000 rainbow trout. At 55,000 acres, this body of water is the largest of Idaho’s Snake River reservoirs. However, due to its various bays, inlets and coves along the coast, it provides a fishing experience similar to smaller waters, which can be enjoyed by anglers in small watercraft.

Besides rainbow trout, anglers can fish for browns, cutthroats, smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and yellow perch. The town of American Falls is at the southwest end of the reservoir, where there are also several boat launches and fuel available. There are also boat services and launches available near Aberdeen, midway on the west side of the reservoir. Camping is available at Massacre Rocks State Park, as well as several private RV parks and campgrounds at or near the reservoir.

Bannock Reservoir – 500 rainbow trout. Located within the Portneuf Wellness Complex Park near the County Fairgrounds in Pocatello, this community park offers trout fishing with many recreational amenities nearby. The six-acre lake is surrounded by playgrounds, soccer fields, basketball courts, running and biking trails, and an amphitheater for community events. Several piers provide fishing around the lake.

Bear River below Oneida Dam – 1,500 rainbow trout. These fish will be stocked in the beautiful Oneida Narrows reach of the river below the dam. This popular section of the river offers the longest continuous public access on the entire Bear River.

Crystal Springs Pond – 1,000 rainbow trout. This spring fed pond is always clear and cool! Located near Springfield, this family friendly pond has a paved walking path and docks for easy fishing access.

Edson Fichter Pond – 950 rainbow trout. This three-acre pond is located just minutes from downtown Pocatello and offers local anglers of all ages a convenient escape close to home. Located within the 40-acre Edson Fichter Nature Area, this pond features several docks and a trail for access around the pond.

Your dog is welcome to be your fishing buddy—on a leash while at the pond and on the trails. However, if they need to cool off or want to practice their fetching skills, there is a “puppy pond” built just for them on the same property.

Stocking of all water is temporary and dependent on river/lake/pond conditions (fisherman safety concerns); dates are subject to change due to weather or staffing constraints.

If you need detailed information about Idaho’s waters, fish species, facilities, maps and rules, see the Idaho Fishing Planner on the Fish and Game website.