Pre-runoff Walk/Wade Tactics North Idaho Streams - Part 1

No boat? No problem!

Just because the water levels are usually a little higher in the spring doesn't mean that can't fish right now! If you know the right type of water to look for, it's actually pretty easy to fish the Coeur d'Alene and St. Joe River during the spring months.

Some of this might be redundant, but I am going to burn it into your head...

When water levels are up focus on these 2 areas and you are on your way to success:

1. Back Eddies - Areas that the water is redirected along the bank and flows opposite of the main current creating a "pocket". Typically eddies have softer current seams and are some of the best fish holding areas at higher levels.
2. Soft Pockets - As the main "run" starts to mellow out, slow down, and spread out typically there are slower / softer pockets along the shore that fish love to sit in. These soft pockets are easy to hit on foot... because they are right on the bank!! You don't even have to wade into the river!!

Fishing slow pockets on foot pays off!

Wanna really get dialed in for walk / wade fishing pre-runoff AND learn a casting tip for dealing with brushy / steep banks?! Watch the video below!