An Update on the Steelhead, Chinook and Coho runs on the Clearwater River, Idaho.

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Warm weather and lower than usual water levels have delayed the steelhead run by about two weeks. Historically, Clearwater B-Run (bigger) steelhead do not start to pass Bonneville dam until after August 15. So we are just now starting to see these fish begin their journey back to Idaho. It’s no secret that the A-Run (smaller) steelhead destined for the Snake River and Salmon rivers are at historical lows. The Idaho Fish and Game has reduced bag limits for the Snake and Salmon rivers. The good news is that early PIT (Passive Integrated Transponder) data indicates that the B-run should be similar to last year and provide some amazing fishing.

These early predictions estimate that we should see over 20,000 steelhead return to the Clearwater this fall. To date no season or retention changes have been made for the Clearwater River. For the fist time in 100 years we will also have a Coho (Silver salmon) season! The Coho and Fall Chinook (King salmon) runs are looking very strong. Steelhead, Chinook and Coho are all awesome fish and now they are all available to catch on the Clearwater River. We should seem some great fishing this season, so book your trip today!

CRC appreciates the great fishing guides that joined us this year.

We had a fantastic steelhead season. Nothing would have been possible if it weren’t for the guides. They brought to the river their talent, professionalism and enthusiasm for fishing. We thank each and every guide that helped make the dreams of many people a reality on the Clearwater River.

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DAN BOLTON (CEDAR SPRINGS MARINA, UT.), ERIN HALE (EVERSETOUTFITTERS), BRIAN KAPALOSKI,

MIKE WIDENER, RUSS WINGER (@LONGDRAW_WOODWORKS).

ClearwaterRiverCo. encourages you to Help Idaho Fish and Game

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Here is a message from Jo Dupont, Clearwater Regional Fisheries Manager, IDFG. -

“ I know many of you enjoy fishing for the steelhead in the South Fork Clearwater River and often help us collect broodstock to support future returns.  For those who want to know more about this program or are interested in helping, you can learn more by clicking on this link https://idfg.idaho.gov/press/anglers-help-needed-collect-steelhead-broodstock-south-fork-clearwater-river.

As an FYI, this will be the largest steelhead return to the South Fork Clearwater River we have seen since 2017.  On top of that, these fish are bigger than normal this year.  The last three catch-and-release steelhead state records actually came from the South Fork Clearwater River and it currently stands at 38 inches. It wouldn’t surprise me if that record falls again this year!”

Although ClearwaterRiver Company doesn’t guide on the South Fork of the Clearwater, we do guide on the Middle Fork confluence where the fish stack up before heading up into the South Fork. Our open dates for the end of February are just about full, call today if you want to get out on the water and chase the Huge B-Run steelhead. 1-866-846-4240.

CRC LLC professional Idaho fishing guides out on the river.

Clearwater River Company LLC has a team of professional fishing guides that are not only getting our customers into these massive Steelhead but also the beautiful scenery of the Clearwater River. Call and make a reservation, we have openings just waiting for You!

photo by Erin Hale

photo by Erin Hale