Idaho Fishing Reports ยท Lakes ยท Clearwater Region
Dworshak Reservoir on the North Fork Clearwater is a long, deep reservoir known for kokanee and smallmouth bass.
Looking for the latest Dworshak 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 Dworshak Reservoir.
Water level
There is no public daily water level gauge for Dworshak Reservoir that we can show here. Check with the managing agency or a local shop for the latest.
Wind forecast
Dworshak Reservoir fishing report
Updated November 7, 2026.
Water is drawn down for the season.
Smallmouth slow down as the water cools.
Stocking report
See the Idaho Fish and Game fish stocking schedule for the latest stocking at Dworshak Reservoir and other Idaho waters.
Load your fly box
Before you head to Dworshak Reservoir, bring: Clouser Minnow #4-6, Woolly Bugger #4-8, Crayfish #4-6, 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.
Dworshak Reservoir lake details
| Access | Ramps at Big Eddy, Dent Acres and near the dam. |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 1,600 ft |
| Nearest town | Orofino, Idaho |
| Best season | Spring through fall |
| Fish | Kokanee, smallmouth, rainbow 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, 2X to 3X |
| Ice fishing | Not usually ice-fished. |
| Camping | Dworshak State Park and Dent Acres |
| Kids | Partly. |
| Good to know | Big drawdowns change access. |
Fishing by season
Winter
Quiet.
Spring
Smallmouth.
Summer
Kokanee.
Fall
Smallmouth.
How to get there
From Orofino, take State Highway 7 to the dam.