Fishing Deadwood Reservoir

AKA: Deadwood Lake

Popular Fish Species
Deadwood Reservoir Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
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Deadwood Reservoir, ID

Popular Fish Species Deadwood Reservoir, ID

Deadwood Reservoir Popular Fish - Kokanee Salmon

Kokanee Salmon Fishing

On-going stocking of kokanee salmon by the Idaho Fish and Game helps to maintain a nice population for the fishery here in Deadwood Reservoir. Typically kokanee average one to two pounds. Sockeye salmon which remain landlocked, never migrating to the ocean, are called kokanee salmon. As one of the prime kokanee fishing lakes in Idaho, Deadwood Reservoir delivers plenty of fish above normal averages. These tasty fish school in lakes at depths which remain at ideal temperatures of between 48 and 58 degrees. Once this depth is identified, use a fish finder to locate schools. Use small lures trolled at the appropriate depth. The can also be caught using corn, but the main way they are caught is using flashy lures which they attack when the lure intrudes their space.

Deadwood Reservoir Popular Fish - Cutthroat Trout

Cutthroat Trout Fishing

The ideal approach to catching westslope cutthroat is fly fishing, and the key is to match the hatch. Catching cutthroat trout in Deadwood Reservoir with lures or bait can also productive. Presented properly, cutthroat trout can be caught on small spinners and spoons. Like all fish, cutthroat like to have some sort of cover. This year, fishing for cutthroat trout here has been fair to very good, year round depending on conditions. While the ideal setting for cutthroats is in a river or stream, they are also stocked in reservoirs, like Deadwood Reservoir. They will hang out in boulders, fallen trees, along drop-offs and ledges.

Deadwood Reservoir Popular Fish - Rainbow Trout

Rainbow Trout Fishing

Fishing for rainbow trout at Deadwood Reservoir can be effective using worms, salmon eggs, prepared baits, small spinners, spoons, jerkbaits and small crankbaits in vibrant colors to mimic prey. Use the lightest fishing line for the best possible results, based on conditions. Annual stockings have helped to maintain a good population of rainbow trout. While fishing from a boat is often the preferred method, plenty of trout are caught here by anglers fishing from the bank. Additionally, floating or sinking flies, such as nymphs, streamers, or dry flies, are popular choices for fly anglers targeting rainbow trout. Trolling with lures or flies behind a boat, casting near shoreline structures, or still fishing with bait can all yield success. Adjusting lure size, color, and retrieve speed can enhance chances of enticing these colorful and spirited fish.

Deadwood Reservoir Fishing Video

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for Rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, Atlantic salmon, chinook salmon and kokanee salmon at Deadwood Reservoir in Idaho.

In the rugged wild of Idaho sits Deadwood Reservoir, a 3,000-acre lake in the central part of the state, 12 miles north of Lowman. The lake is about 4 miles long, with over 20 miles of shoreline. All of the east side, and some of the northwest and southwest sides of the reservoir have road access, some of which presents opportunity for fishing from the bank.

Deadwood Reservoir offers fishing for native cutthroat trout. Anglers can find both Yellowstone cutthroat trout and rainbow trout in these crystal-clear waters. Fly fishing is particularly popular here. Trolling is also very popular. Boat launch ramps are available on the north, east and south sides of the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Deadwood Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Deadwood Reservoir Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: NO
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: NO
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NO

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Cozy Cove Boat Launch
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Scott Mountain Road, this is a primitive gravel ramp with gravel parking.

Howers Campground Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off Forest Road 55JA, this is a primitive gravel ramp with gravel parking.