Idaho Opens “No Limit” Kokanee Fishing on North Fork Clearwater River

Here’s a press release from Idaho Department of Fish and Game announcing an opportunity for anglers to “salvage” kokanee salmon that are being flushed out of Dworshak Reservoir and into the North Fork Clearwater River near Orofino.

According to Joe Dupont, regional fisheries manager for Idaho’s Clearwater region, flows from the dam are expected to increase again next week, meaning more of these very tasty fish are going to be available. The “salvage” season begins immediately.

Due to this unique flush of kokanee anglers can keep as many of these salmon as they ant. Anglers can take them by rod and reel, with dip nets, or with their hands if they choose. Note: steelhead and other gamefish can not be targeted with dip nets. The salvage season runs through May 31, 2018.

Dupont said that the kokanee can be abundant at times, meaning in spurts, while at other times there aren’t any present. In his press release Dupont said, “I guess what I’m saying is don’t expect to rush up there and fill buckets full of fish. However, if you are in the area you may want to check it out. Often a good indicator that a lot of kokanee are (present) is when you see a bunch of seagulls flying over the water. Another thing to check out is the back eddies. This is often where dead kokanees stack up.”

If you have a Little Chief smoker that’s begging for use, or a Traeger grill, you might want to keep an eye out for those birds because kokanee, especially after swimming in the clear, cold waters of Dworshake Reservoir all winter, should be amazing on the plate, either baked, grilled or smoked. Take advantage of the opportunity if you can.