Idaho Fishing Reports ยท Lakes ยท Southwest Region
Brownlee Reservoir on the Snake River is one of the best crappie and smallmouth fisheries in the West.
Looking for the latest Brownlee Reservoir river report? This page is updated by the AvidMax fly shop team with live flows, current conditions, hatches and the flies working now on the Brownlee Reservoir.
Water level
There is no public daily water level gauge for Brownlee Reservoir that we can show here. Check with the managing agency or a local shop for the latest.
Wind forecast
Brownlee Reservoir fishing report
Updated November 7, 2026.
Smallmouth are on rocky points as the water cools.
Streamers and crayfish patterns along the points.
Stocking report
See the Idaho Fish and Game fish stocking schedule for the latest stocking at Brownlee Reservoir and other Idaho waters.
Load your fly box
Before you head to Brownlee Reservoir, bring: Clouser Minnow #2-6, Crayfish #4-6, Woolly Bugger #4-8, Balanced Leech #10-12, Balanced Bou Leech #10-12, Slump Buster #6-8, Egg #12-14, Scud Bomb #12-16, Pitching Leech #10, Circus Peanut #4.
Flies working right now
The flies above that we have in stock right now.
Brownlee Reservoir lake details
| Access | Ramps at Woodhead Park and other sites. |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 2,000 ft |
| Nearest town | Cambridge, Idaho |
| Best season | Spring through fall |
| Fish | Smallmouth, crappie, catfish, trout |
| Regulations | Check the Idaho Department of Fish and Game rules before you go. An Idaho fishing license is required for anglers 14 and older, plus a steelhead or salmon permit where those fish are targeted. |
| Leaders and tippet | 9 ft leaders, 1X to 3X |
| Ice fishing | Rarely freezes. |
| Camping | Woodhead Park and McCormick Park |
| Kids | Yes. |
| Good to know | Water levels change with dam operations. |
Fishing by season
Winter
Quiet.
Spring
Crappie and smallmouth.
Summer
Smallmouth.
Fall
Smallmouth.
How to get there
From Cambridge, take State Highway 71 west.