Fishing in Stanley, Idaho

The Salmon River through the Stanley Basin holds cutthroat trout, rainbow trout, and brown trout. Redfish Lake is stocked with rainbow trout and also has brook trout. The higher alpine lakes in the Sawtooth Wilderness vary, so check Idaho Fish and Game's current stocking reports before committing to a long hike in.

You need a valid Idaho fishing license for all waters in the area. Some sections of the Salmon River and certain wilderness lakes may have additional regulations around catch limits or gear restrictions. Check Idaho Fish and Game's current regulation booklet for the Salmon Region before your trip — regulations can change season to season and vary by specific water body.

The Salmon River through the Stanley Basin typically fishes well from late spring through early fall, with early summer and September being particularly productive for trout. The alpine lakes — Sawtooth, Ruffneck, Middle Cramer, and others — are usually ice-free from late June or July through September, depending on snowpack. Stanley sits at elevation and can see snow in any month, so check conditions before heading up.

The Salmon River through the Stanley Basin is listed as moderate difficulty. It's not a beginner's stretch — the currents can be strong and reading the water takes some experience — but it's approachable for intermediate anglers comfortable with wading and basic fly fishing technique. If you're new to fly fishing, the campground access points near Elk Creek, Trap Creek, and Pole Flat give you calmer spots to practice before moving into more technical runs.

Redfish Lake can be fished from shore and is rated easy access, making it one of the more beginner-friendly options in the area. There is also a boat ramp at the Sandy Beach Day Use location if you want to get out on the water. Early morning and evening are generally the most productive times on any still water, and Redfish is no exception.