Palisades Reservoir

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[url "http://www2.state.id.us/fishgame/common/maps/angguid/anglergd.htm"][/url]

Palies Reservoir, on the upper Snake River, was developed by the Bureau of Reclamation in 1957. This 16,100 acre reservoir was designed as an irrigation storage, power generation, and flood control impoundment. It is located in some of Idaho's most scenic country, near the Idaho-Wyoming border. Access to the reservoir, for both shore and boat anglers, is best on the northwest side, along U.S. route 26. Camping is available at Elk Creek, Alpine and Hoffman Campgrounds.

Fluctuating water levels in Palies has resulted in an inconsistent fishery. Though most of the angler pressure occurs during the summer months, spring, fall and winter seasons actually provides the best fishing opportunities. Catch rates typically drop off dramatically in mid - late June, then pick up just as quickly when cooler temperatures arrive in September.

During these cooler months, there is good fishing for both boat and shore angler. Shore anglers may however, find some difficulty reaching the undeveloped shoreline due to the steep slopes in some areas.

The predominate game species of Palies Reservoir is cutthroat trout, both wild and stocked. Second in angler popularity is the brown trout. Though not as abundant, the browns provide a good trophy fishery with an average length of nearly 17". Also in the lake are kokanee and mackinaw. The mackinaw, or lake trout, are relatively few in number, but can be found in deep water.

A basic medium weight rod with matching reel, loaded with 8-10 lb. line will get you started. Terminal gear consisting of a number 8-10 hook, small swivel and light weights will do. If you are fishing from the shore, worms and marshmallows work well. The marshmallow helps to hold the bait up into the fish's view. Anglers have also had success with lures such as spoons, roostertails and spinners.

Boat anglers, fishing for trout, find success trolling with rapalas, spoons and pop-gear rigged with spinners. Shallow trolling with worms can also bring success early in the year.

Kokanee
Fishing for kokanee can be challenging on Palies. Trolling deep, with pop-gear tipped with a spinner is most effective. Local tackle shops can be helpful in providing tips for specific gear that is working at the time.

Ice Fishing
Ice fishing Palies can be some of the best fishing of the year. Ice fishing can be a great family outing to cure the winter blahs. Winter trout are great to eat, and the snow and ice add to the beauty of the area. Always be sure to check for safe ice before venturing out.

Equip yourself with some warm clothes and boots, short rods or tip-ups, and ice auger, and a scoop. Add some ice flies, jigs, swedish pimple type lure or lead-headed hooks and tip them with worms, or shrimp bait and the catching is on. If you've never been ice fishing, give it a try!
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