Idaho Fishing Reports ยท Lakes ยท Salmon Region
Williams Lake near Salmon is a landslide-formed lake with rainbows and good float-tube fishing.
Looking for the latest Williams Lake 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 Williams Lake.
Water level
There is no public daily water level gauge for Williams Lake that we can show here. Check with the managing agency or a local shop for the latest.
Wind forecast
Williams Lake fishing report
Updated November 7, 2026.
Fishing slows as the water cools.
Leeches and small nymphs along the drop-offs.
Stocking report
See the Idaho Fish and Game fish stocking schedule for the latest stocking at Williams Lake and other Idaho waters.
Load your fly box
Before you head to Williams Lake, bring: Mini Leech #8-10, Woolly Bugger #6-8, Zebra Midge #14-18, Balanced Leech #10-12, Balanced Bou Leech #10-12, Slump Buster #6-8, Egg #12-14, Scud Bomb #12-16, Clouser Minnow #2-6.
Flies working right now
The flies above that we have in stock right now.
Williams Lake lake details
| Access | Campground and ramp on the north shore. |
|---|---|
| Elevation | About 5,300 ft |
| Nearest town | Salmon, Idaho |
| Best season | Spring through fall |
| Fish | 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, 4X |
| Ice fishing | Ice fishing. |
| Camping | Williams Lake campground |
| Kids | Yes. |
| Good to know | Steep drop-offs near shore. |
Fishing by season
Winter
Ice fishing.
Spring
Ice-out.
Summer
Rainbows.
Fall
Rainbows.
How to get there
From Salmon, take US-93 south and the Williams Lake road.