Idaho · Fishing
Fishing in avery, Idaho
Avery sits deep in the St. Joe River corridor in the Idaho Panhandle, a small railroad town that most anglers drive past on their way somewhere else — which is exactly why it's worth stopping.
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View on mapFishing · 3 spots
Avery sits deep in the St. Joe River corridor in the Idaho Panhandle, a small railroad town that most anglers drive past on their way somewhere else — which is exactly why it's worth stopping. The fishing here splits into two distinct experiences: lake fishing at Northbound Lake and river fishing along the stretches accessible from cabins like the Beaver Creek A-Frame and Red Ives Cabin, both of which put you within easy reach of moving water. The St. Joe drainage runs cold and clear through this part of Shoshone County, and the river-fishing options here tend to reward anglers who are willing to wade and read water rather than those looking for a stocked pond experience. Access to the area runs through Forest Service roads that can be rough depending on the season, so trip planning matters more here than it would closer to a highway corridor. With three active listings covering both lake and river fishing, Avery works well as a base for anglers who want to mix up their approach across a few days rather than commit to a single spot.
Frequently asked questions
What type of fishing is available near Avery, Idaho?
The listings in this area cover two types: lake fishing at Northbound Lake and river fishing accessible from the Beaver Creek A-Frame Cabin and Red Ives Cabin. If you want moving water, the cabin-based options are your best starting point since they're positioned along river access points in the St. Joe drainage.
What gear should I bring for river fishing in this area?
Waders and wading boots are worth packing for the river-fishing spots — the St. Joe and its tributaries require you to get in the water to reach the better runs. A medium-light spinning or fly rod in the 8-9 foot range handles most situations here. Bring a valid Idaho fishing license and check current regulations for the specific water body before you go, as rules can vary by tributary.
When is the best time of year to fish near Avery?
Late spring through early fall is the primary window, with early summer being productive on the rivers once runoff settles and water clarity improves. Early mornings and evenings are consistently better for river fishing when temperatures are up. Northbound Lake can fish well through more of the day during summer.
How do I get to the fishing spots around Avery?
Avery is accessible via Highway 3 and Forest Service roads heading into the St. Joe National Forest. The roads to spots like Red Ives Cabin get progressively rougher the further you go, and some require a high-clearance vehicle, especially early in the season. Check road conditions with the St. Joe Ranger District before heading out if you're unsure about access.
Is this area suitable for beginner anglers?
Northbound Lake is the more approachable option for beginners since lake fishing generally requires less technical skill than reading and wading a river. The river-fishing spots near Beaver Creek and Red Ives are better suited to anglers who have some experience with moving water and basic casting technique, though they're not expert-only water.
