Fishing At Lake Walcott

AKA: Walcott Reservoir, Walcott Lake

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, rainbow trout, bluegill, pumpkinseed sunfish and yellow perch at Lake Walcott in Idaho.

Spanning about 25 miles of the Snake River, Lake Walcott is an anglers favorite for numerous species of fish. Bass, bluegill, sunfish, perch and rainbow trout all thrive here. All but the trout reproduce naturally, and the trout are stocked by the Idaho Fish & Game on a regular basis. This 8,200-acre lake in the south-central part of the state has about 80 miles of shoreline.

Lake Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites that each offer select bits of information, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Idaho Fish and Game, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

Lake Walcott, located in southern Idaho, is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts. This serene reservoir, nestled in the beautiful Snake River Plain, offers excellent angling opportunities and a picturesque setting. Anglers are drawn to Lake Walcott for its diverse fish populations and the chance to catch some of Idaho's popular fish species.

One of the prized catches in Lake Walcott is the rainbow trout. This reservoir is known for its thriving population of rainbow trout, providing anglers with exciting fishing experiences. These vibrant and acrobatic trout can be caught using various techniques such as fly fishing, bait fishing, or trolling. Additionally, the lake is home to other popular fish species such as yellow perch, smallmouth bass, and catfish, offering anglers a variety of fishing options.

Lake Walcott is a true gem in Idaho, captivating anglers and nature lovers with its natural beauty and recreational opportunities. Whether you're casting a line for rainbow trout, cruising the reservoir's tranquil waters, or spending nights camping under the starry sky, Lake Walcott 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 southern Idaho.

The lake is at an elevation of 4,200 feet above sea level and is open for fishing most of the year. In winter, once the ice is safe, there is good ice fishing for perch, sunfish and trout. Boating season is open April 1 to Sept. 30 with no HP restrictions for fishing or pleasure boats. There is a boat launch ramp at Lake Walcott State Park. Much of the shoreline is not accessible for bank fishing due to lack of roads leading to the lake in many areas. However there are plenty of bank-fishing opportunities in the areas where roadway access permits. See the map below for travel options.

Primary fish species residing in Lake Walcott

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Lake Walcott Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

In addition to fishing, Lake Walcott offers ample opportunities for boating enthusiasts. The calm waters of the reservoir are perfect for leisurely boat rides, water sports, and exploring the scenic surroundings. Whether you prefer motorized boats, kayaks, or canoes, Lake Walcott provides a serene environment to enjoy a day on the water and discover secluded coves and inlets.

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Lake Walcott State Park Boat Ramp
Located in the western section of the lake, off E 400 N Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Click here for a Idaho Fishing License.

Camping is a popular activity for those seeking to fully immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Lake Walcott. The area offers several campgrounds with facilities, where visitors can set up their tents or park their RVs. Camping near Lake Walcott allows anglers and outdoor enthusiasts to wake up to beautiful lake views, enjoy peaceful evenings under starry skies, and have convenient access to the fishing hotspots along the shoreline.