Loading intel...
Loading intel...
Chase Chinook salmon through Idaho's legendary wilderness rivers. The Salmon River and its tributaries offer some of the most remote and rewarding fishing in the West.
Important: Salmon Fishing is Highly Regulated
Idaho's salmon seasons depend on fish returns and may be closed or limited in any given year. Always check current IDFG regulations before planning a trip.
The Salmon River is the longest free-flowing river in the lower 48 states at 425 miles.
Idaho's primary salmon species, also known as King salmon. Fish can exceed 30 pounds.
Fish in the Frank Church Wilderness, the largest roadless area in the contiguous US.
The Salmon River system is Idaho's primary salmon fishery.
The legendary 'River of No Return' is Idaho's most famous salmon water. Wild, scenic, and home to spring and summer Chinook runs. The main Salmon flows 425 miles through some of the most rugged wilderness in the lower 48.
One of the premier wilderness fishing experiences in America. The Middle Fork offers exceptional Chinook fishing in a remote, roadless setting. Most anglers access via multi-day float trips.
Less crowded than the main Salmon, the South Fork provides good Chinook opportunities for anglers willing to make the journey to this remote drainage.
A tributary of the main Salmon, the Little Salmon offers more accessible fishing for Chinook. Popular with bank anglers due to easy highway access.
Chinook migrate through the Snake River corridor. While not a prime fishing destination, fish can be caught as they move toward the Salmon River tributaries.
When to fish for Chinook salmon in Idaho.
Spring Chinook enter Idaho rivers in late spring, typically May through June. These fish are prized for their high oil content and excellent table quality.
Limited opportunity - check IDFGThe main salmon fishing season in Idaho. Summer Chinook provide the bulk of fishing opportunity on the Salmon River system.
Primary fishing seasonCritical rules for salmon fishing. Regulations change yearly—always verify before fishing.
Idaho's primary salmon fishing occurs on the Salmon River system, including the main Salmon River, Middle Fork Salmon, South Fork Salmon, and Little Salmon River. The Snake River also sees salmon migration. Seasons and opportunities vary by year based on fish returns.
The Salmon River near Riggins and the Middle Fork Salmon River offer the best Chinook fishing opportunities in Idaho. The Middle Fork provides a world-class wilderness experience, while the main Salmon near Riggins offers more accessible fishing.
Idaho's salmon season typically runs from June through August, with peak fishing in June and July. However, seasons are highly regulated and vary by year based on fish returns. Always check current IDFG regulations before planning a trip.
Yes, you need a valid Idaho fishing license and typically a salmon permit. Salmon permits may be limited or unavailable in some years depending on fish returns. Check IDFG's website for current permit availability and regulations.
It depends on the year and current fish returns. Some years allow retention of hatchery Chinook while wild fish must be released. Other years may be catch-and-release only. Always verify current regulations before fishing.
Discover all of Idaho's fishing opportunities with our interactive map.
Open Fishing Map