Lochsa River
Lochsa River
- Boat Ramps
- 12
- Access Points
- 49
- Species
- 11
The Lochsa River is a pristine 69.2-mile waterway flowing through north-central Idaho, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and exceptional trout fishing opportunities. Designated as a tributary of the Middle Fork Clearwater River, this mountain stream carves through rugged terrain, creating diverse aquatic habitats that support healthy fish populations. The river follows Highway 12, making it easily accessible for anglers while still maintaining its wild character. With stunning mountain vistas as a backdrop, the Lochsa offers both novice and experienced fly fishermen a serene yet challenging environment. The river is particularly famous for its native Westslope Cutthroat trout fishery and beautiful surroundings, drawing fishing enthusiasts from across the region seeking a quintessential Idaho fishing experience.
Species & education
Learn what type of fish are at Lochsa River and what's needed to catch them.
Find which waters have the species you want to catch
Smallmouth Bass
Micropterus dolomieu
Rainbow Trout
Oncorhynchus mykiss
Brook Trout
Salvelinus fontinalis
Cutthroat Trout
Oncorhynchus clarkii
Northern Pike
Esox lucius
Bull Trout
Salvelinus confluentus
Chinook Salmon
Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
Common Carp
Cyprinus carpio
Lake Whitefish
Coregonus clupeaformis
Mountain Whitefish
Prosopium williamsoni
Steelhead
Fish stocking schedule
Latest 5 stockings
- Chinook Salmon646,174 fish · 4.5 inMar 21, 2026
- Chinook Salmon402,786 fish · 4.5 inMar 18, 2021
- Chinook Salmon791,296 fish · 4.5 inMar 17, 2020
- Chinook Salmon16,219 fish · 1.5 inJan 4, 2017
- Chinook Salmon244,485 fish · 4.5 inMar 18, 2016
Source
Idaho Department of Fish and Game
Updated Nov 13, 2026. Sizes are the length the agency reports. Dates are as precise as the agency reports them.
Open stocking page, opens in new tabFishing spots, boat ramps & amenities
Learn how to get on Lochsa River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.
Knife Edge Access
Shoe String Access
Colgate Licks Access
Log Jam Access
House Rock Access
Warm Springs Trailhead and Access
Shoe String Access
Eagle Mountain Trailhead and Access
Shoe String Access
Badger Creek Access
Know where you can legally fish on Lochsa River
See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.
Idaho licenses and regulations
Idaho Boating Regulations
When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.
Idaho Fishing License
"To fish in Idaho any person 14 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license. Anglers younger than 14 do not need a license, but there is a small difference between resident and nonresident youth. -A resident child under 14 has their own separate fishing limit. -A nonresident child under 14 must be with someone who has a valid fishing license and their fish are in included in the license holders fishing limit. However, a nonresident child may purchase their own license and have their own limit. Special fishing permits are need for some activities for both residents and nonresidents: -Fishing for salmon and steelhead -Fishing with two poles."
Idaho Fishing Regulations
This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.
Idaho Stream Access Laws
Navigable streams are recognized as public transportation corridors, thus members of the public have the right to use the corridor, provided they enter and exit the corridor at a public right of way and remain within the corridor. Many navigable streams flow through private property, thus it is important that anglers know their rights and responsibilities when fishing in navigable waters that flow through private property.
Take Lochsa River with you
The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.
Use the map without signal
Download the map around Lochsa River to use it offline when coverage drops.
Log your catches here
Keep a private fishing journal for Lochsa River to find where and when fish are biting for you.
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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)
See the best times to fish Lochsa River and check the forecast before you go.
LOCHSA RIVER NR LOWELL ID
Fishing near Lochsa River
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