Fishing At Payette Lake

AKA: Payette Reservoir

Fishing for smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, lake trout, yellow perch and kokanee salmon at Payette Lake in Idaho.

Stunning, natural beauty surrounds Payette Lake, a 5,000-acre lake in the west-central part of the state, at McCall, ID. This fertile fishery has over 20 miles of shoreline, some of which is accessible for fishing from the bank. Anglers mainly target rainbow trout, cutthroat trout, lake trout and kokanee salmon, often hooking trophy-size fish. Bass enthusiasts are happy to enjoy the quality smallmouth fishing. Ponderosa State Park, plus the north and east portions of the lake afford the best opportunities for bank fishing. Boat are ramps are open for boats, with no limit on horsepower. Canoes, kayaks and row boats can be portaged from the park as well as several areas around the lake. Mile High Marina serves the boating public with docks, a store, gas, boat rentals, hot food, fishing gear and supplies for camping, boating and fishing.

Primary fish species residing in Payette Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Payette Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES