Dworshak Reservoir Fishing Forecast for 2018

By Joe Dupont/Idaho Department of Fish and Game

Spring weather is predictably unpredictable. But, as some nice days come our way, anglers are getting out to chase “bluebacks”, “smallies”, and whatever else may bite. So, if you’re itching to go, here’s what to expect from the Dworshak Reservoir fishery in 2018.

If you’re a bass fisherman, you’ve either been fishing Dworshak the last two years, or you’ve been missing out. The smallmouth population has been very healthy and growth of the larger fish has been incredible, as it often is during years of high kokanee abundance.

However, with declines in kokanee abundance, we expect the growth of bass to slow. As the big ones that were produced in recent years die off from natural causes, the number of larger fish may go down, as the ones taking their place didn’t have the benefit of being able to feed in years of high kokanee abundance. But, take heart, kokanee numbers are expected to go back up again. When they do, expect the bass to grow like crazy.

With that said, there are still plenty of bass out there to catch, including some big ones. If you go, concentrate your efforts near creekmouths early on. The bigger fish will move up shallow to spawn by the time the water is 50 degrees. As the water continues to warm, the larger fish will move back out into deeper water and smaller fish will move up along the banks. As this happens, catch rates will pick up, but average size will go down.