Fishing Palisades Reservoir

AKA: Palisades Lake

Most Popular Fish
Palisades Reservoir Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Local Fishing Guides
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Palisades Reservoir, ID

Popular Fish Species Palisades Reservoir, ID

Palisades Reservoir Popular Fish - Kokanee Salmon

Kokanee Salmon Fishing

Sockeye salmon which remain landlocked, never migrating to the ocean, are called kokanee salmon. On-going stocking of kokanee salmon by the Idaho Fish and Game helps to maintain a nice population for the fishery. Typically kokanee average one to two pounds. As one of the premiere kokanee fishing lakes in Idaho, Palisades Reservoir delivers plenty of fish above normal averages. When the lake freezes over,you can catch kokanee through the ice while ice fishing. 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. In winter, once the ice is safe, try ice fishing for kokanee.

Palisades Reservoir Popular Fish - Lake Torut

Lake Trout Fishing

Year round, including through the ice in winter, fishing for lake trout in Palisades Reservoir often delivers great results. These large trout can be caught from as shallow as 15 to 30 feet in Spring and Fall, to as deep as 150 feet or more during Summer and Winter. It is a monumental help to use fish finders, or other electronics to help in locating these roaming schools of lake trout. They feed on baitfish, so jigs rigged to imitate their prey often work well straight down under the boat. Trolling with numerous set-ups can also produce good catches. When the lake freezes over, ice fishing for big lake trout with spoons can deliver some great catches.

Palisades Reservoir Popular Fish - Brown Trout

Brown Trout Fishing

Currently, fishing for brown trout in Palisades Reservoir is delivering some nice catches. These hearty fighters migrate around the lake in search of baitfish and comfortable water temperatures, preferably in the 50 to 62 degree range. In spring brown trout, along with the baitfish, move to the shallows which warms first. As the days get warmer in summer they move deeper, again following schools of bait. As Fall and Winter arrive, browns tend to stay in deeper water. When these trout move deep, it is typically in the 20- to 45-foot range. Nightcrawlers are always a good bait for brown trout. In-line spinners, bait-colored crankbaits and small spoons are other options. Experiment with depth and retrieve speed. When the lake freezes over, try your luck at ice fishing.

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, brown trout, lake trout and kokanee salmon at Palisades Reservoir in Idaho.

Palisades Reservoir Fishing Video

Nestled in a beautiful mountain setting, Palisades Reservoir is a trout anglers dream. At an elevation 5,600 feet above sea level, this 16,000-acre lake provides fishing opportunities year round.

Palisades Reservoir, located in southeastern Idaho, is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts. This stunning reservoir, nestled among the majestic mountains and sprawling forests of the Caribou-Targhee National Forest, offers a serene setting and outstanding angling opportunities. Anglers are drawn to Palisades Reservoir for its diverse fish populations and the chance to catch some of Idaho's most sought-after fish species.

One of the prized catches in Palisades Reservoir is the cutthroat trout. These native trout thrive in the reservoir's clear waters, providing anglers with thrilling battles and the opportunity to reel in impressive-sized fish. The reservoir is also home to other popular species such as rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon. Anglers can choose from various techniques, such as fly fishing, bait fishing, or trolling, to target these sought-after species.

Palisades Reservoir is truly a gem in Idaho, captivating anglers and nature lovers with its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Whether you're casting a line for cutthroat trout, cruising the reservoir's tranquil waters, or spending nights camping under the starry sky, Palisades Reservoir promises an unforgettable experience. Its diverse fish populations, boating amenities, and picturesque camping areas make it a must-visit destination for those seeking outdoor adventures in southeastern Idaho.

Ice fishing in winter, fishing from a boat in summer and bank fishing the remainder of the year makes this an ideal trout fishing destination. This gem is located in the southeast part of the state, on the Wyoming-Idaho border, 5 miles southeast of Irwin, ID. 70 miles of shoreline provide plenty of places to wet a line, from shore or from a boat. The boat launches serve pleasure and fishing boats with no HP restrictions. Several campgrounds and RV parks are available during the season.

Primary fish species residing in Palisades Reservoir

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Palisades Reservoir Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

In addition to fishing, Palisades Reservoir offers ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts. The expansive waters of the reservoir invite boaters to embark on leisurely cruises, indulge in water sports, or explore the secluded coves and bays. Whether you prefer motorized boats, kayaks, or canoes, Palisades Reservoir provides a picturesque and tranquil environment to enjoy a day on the water.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Blowout Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, east side, off US Highway 26, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Calamity Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off Bear Creek Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Fishing Guides On Palisades Reservoir

Palisades Reservoir Guided Fishing - trout, salmon

If you offer fishing guide services on this lake, please contact us for a free listing, to be posted here.

Fishing License

Click here for a Idaho Fishing License.

Camping near Palisades Reservoir is a popular option for those seeking an impressive outdoor experience. The area offers several campgrounds equipped with facilities and stunning views, where visitors can set up their tents or park their RVs. Camping allows anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to wake up to breathtaking views, savor peaceful evenings under starlit skies, and make the most of their time in this scenic retreat.