Idaho Fish and Game plans more than 210,000 October catchable rainbows

October is a big stocking month across Idaho. Fish and Game said hatchery crews will put out more than 210,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout statewide this month, with regional schedules listing family-friendly lakes, ponds, and reservoirs from the Panhandle to Magic Valley.

In the Clearwater Region alone, staff plan nearly 29,000 10- to 12-inch rainbows. Highlights include Spring Valley Reservoir (6,000), Deyo Reservoir (5,000), Soldiers Meadow Reservoir (5,000), plus Deer Creek, Elk Creek, and Moose Creek reservoirs at 3,000 each. Magic Valley’s October plan is about 41,300 fish, topped by 24,000 rainbows at Lake Walcott the week of Oct. 19–23. Southwest Region schedules include 4,000 at Lucky Peak Reservoir the week of Oct. 6–10 and more community ponds through month’s end.

Dates and numbers are tentative and can shift with weather, water quality, or staffing. Youth under 14 fish free; others need a current Idaho fishing license. Check the Idaho Fishing Planner and the 2025–2027 seasons booklet for site rules before you go.

This is a The Gillnet news desk summary, not a reprint.

Source: Idaho Fish and Game — Clearwater Region October 2026 rainbow trout stocking (Sept. 29, 2026); statewide October highlights also carried via IDFG press (Oct. 3, 2026).