April may be known for its finicky spring weather in Southeast Idaho, but here is a “forecast” anglers can really rely on to plan their outings. Personnel from Idaho Fish and Game’s hatcheries in the Southeast Region will be releasing nearly 34,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout at the following locations throughout this month:
- Crystal Springs Pond: April 5-9 (375 fish)
- Edson Fichter Pond: April 5-9 (950 fish)
- Jensen Grove Pond: April 5-9 (4,500 fish)
- Bannock Reservoir: April 5-9 (500 fish)
- Bear River at Oneida Narrows: April 5-9 (750 fish)
- Portneuf River below Center Street Bridge in Lava Hot Springs: April 5-9 (330 fish)
- Crowthers Reservoir: April 12-16 (2,200 fish)
- Weston Creek Reservoir: April 12-16 (1,500 fish)
- Chesterfield Reservoir: April 12-16 (19,200 fish)
- Crystal Springs Pond: April 19-23 (375 hours)
- Bannock Reservoir: April 19-23 (500 fish)
- Hawkins Reservoir: April 26-30 (1,680 fish)
- Bear River at Oneida Narrows: April 26-30 (1,000 fish)
Here is a quick summary of what you need to know about some of these fun fisheries!
Bannock Reservoir: Located within the Portneuf Wellness Complex near the county fairgrounds in Pocatello, this community park offers trout fishing at a 6-acre pond with many recreational amenities nearby. There are sand volleyball courts, a playground, soccer fields, basketball courts, a swimming area with beach, running and biking trails, and an amphitheater for community events. Multiple docks provide fishing access at the pond.
Chesterfield Reservoir: Known for BIG fish, this 1200-acre reservoir in Caribou County is a popular spot to plan a great fishing trip.
Crowthers Reservoir: Tucked away on the northern edge of Malad City, this 23-acre reservoir provides a nice local fishing spot.
Crystal Springs Pond: This 5-acre, spring-fed pond in Springfield offers good fishing opportunity for all ages and abilities. A large parking area and paved path around the pond provides easy access.
Edson Fichter Pond: This 3-acre pond is located just minutes from downtown Pocatello and offers local anglers of all ages a convenient escape close to home. Nestled within the 40-acre Edson Fichter Nature Area, this pond features several docks and a trail for access around the pond. Your dog is welcome to be your fishing buddy — if leashed while at the pond and on the trails. However, if they need to cool off or would like to practice their retrieving skills, there is a “puppy pond” built just for them on the same property.
Hawkins Reservoir: Located near Downey, this 40-acre reservoir provides good trout fishing opportunities for Yellowstone cutthroat trout, rainbows and cutbows. Bring your boat or fish from the banks. The Bureau of Land Management manages nearby amenities including campsites, picnic shelters, and picnic tables.
Jensens Grove Pond: This 55-acre pond is located within Jensen Grove Park along the greenbelt in the heart of Blackfoot. Park activities and facilities nearby also include a skate park, playground, restrooms and picnic areas.
Weston Creek Reservoir: Located about 9 miles southeast of Malad City, this 111-acre fishery is a great place to catch a trout, but you may want to bring along your bass gear as well.
The number of trout actually released may be altered by weather, water conditions, equipment problems or schedule changes. If delays occur, trout will be stocked when conditions become favorable.
