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Panhandle

Cold rivers, deep lakes, and North Idaho cutthroat country.

North Idaho fishing is shaped by steep forested mountains, long winters, and an abundance of cold, clear water. Explore current conditions across the Kootenai, St. Joe, Coeur d’Alene, Priest, and Clark Fork systems, along with the region’s large lakes and smaller mountain tributaries.

Rivers

6

Recent reports

87

Last updated

October 9, 2026

Rivers

Lakes

Latest by river

DateRiverConditions
October 9, 2026Clark Fork RiverThe Clark Fork is in good shape for floating with manageable flows and overcast fall conditions.
October 9, 2026Coeur d'Alene RiverFish are holding in tailouts and glides on the lower Coeur d'Alene, feeding selectively on small mayflies and caddis. Flows are stable at 268 cfs and much below normal.
October 9, 2026Kootenai RiverClear water and stable flows are making for solid angling on the Kootenai. October caddis, mahogany duns, and blue-wing olives are on the water, with nymphing working well in the morning and streamers productive all day over structure.
October 9, 2026North Fork Coeur d'Alene RiverFlows are stable at 207 cfs on October 9 as fall conditions settle in. October Caddis, Mahogany Duns, and emerging BWO make for a reliable dry-fly and streamer bite.
October 9, 2026Saint Joe RiverThe Saint Joe is running low but fishable with stable fall conditions and multiple hatches driving fish into slower water. Focus on deeper pools and seams with dry-dropper rigs and nymphs.
October 9, 2026Spokane RiverThe Spokane is running normal flows with cooler fall weather pushing fish into prime habitat. October Caddis, fall caddis, and Baetis offer excellent dry fly opportunities backed by nymph patterns.