What You'll Find in the Spokane River

The Spokane River runs roughly 111 miles from Coeur d'Alene Lake in Idaho to the Washington border, and it holds three species that draw most anglers: steelhead, walleye, and smallmouth bass. Steelhead move through in fall and winter, walleye are year-round residents in deeper pools and slower sections, and smallmouth bass thrive in the warmer months from June through September. The river's character changes as it flows west—the upper sections near Coeur d'Alene are clearer and rockier, while the lower reaches flatten out and warm up, favoring different techniques and species.

Access is straightforward. Highway 90 parallels much of the river, and several public boat launches exist between Coeur d'Alene and the Washington line. The river is open to public fishing, though you will need an Idaho fishing license and must follow state regulations on seasons, bag limits, and gear restrictions. Water levels fluctuate with dam releases upstream and seasonal runoff, so checking current conditions before you go is worth the five minutes it takes.

Key Takeaways

  • Steelhead run the Spokane River from September through March, with peak activity in fall and early winter when water temperatures drop below 55 degrees.
  • Walleye fishing is best in spring and fall when they move into shallower water; summer heat pushes them to deeper pools where they are harder to reach.
  • Smallmouth bass are abundant in summer and respond well to topwater lures early and late in the day, especially in rocky sections and around current breaks.
  • The river's lower sections near the Washington border are warmer and slower, favoring walleye and bass; upper sections near Coeur d'Alene are colder and faster, better for steelhead.
  • Public boat launches are available, but water levels change with dam releases, so confirm access conditions before launching.

Steelhead Season and Where to Fish Them

Steelhead enter the Spokane River in September and continue through March, with the heaviest push usually occurring from October through December. These are B-run steelhead—fish that spend two years in the ocean before returning to spawn—and they average 8 to 12 pounds, though larger fish are caught each season. Water temperature is the key trigger: steelhead move most actively when the river cools to 50 to 55 degrees, which typically happens in late September or early October depending on that year's weather.

Fish the deeper runs and pools where steelhead rest during their upstream migration. The section between Coeur d'Alene and Cataldo is popular because it holds good numbers of fish and offers several pullouts and access points. Drifting with roe or sand shrimp works well, as does swinging small spoons or plugs. Early morning and late afternoon are most productive, and overcast days often outfish sunny ones. Winter steelhead fishing can be cold and the water is high and fast, so wear a life jacket and know your limits.

Walleye Fishing in Spring and Fall

Walleye are present year-round in the Spokane River, but they are most catchable in spring (April through May) and fall (September through October) when they move into shallower water to feed. Summer heat pushes them into the deepest pools and current breaks, where they become difficult to locate and catch. The river's slower, lower sections—particularly between Post Falls and the Washington border—hold the largest walleye populations.

Jigs tipped with live minnows or soft plastics are the standard approach. Fish the edges of current, around submerged rocks, and in the deeper slots between shallows. Early morning and dusk are prime times, and night fishing can be excellent in summer when daytime temperatures make the river uncomfortable for both fish and angler. Walleye in the Spokane River average 12 to 16 inches, with occasional fish pushing 20 inches or better. Check current Idaho regulations for bag limits and size restrictions, as these can change.

Smallmouth Bass in Summer

Smallmouth bass thrive in the Spokane River from June through September and are often overlooked by anglers focused on steelhead and walleye. The river's rocky structure, moderate current, and warming water create ideal habitat. Fish average 12 to 16 inches, with a solid population of fish in the 16- to 18-inch range. The upper river near Coeur d'Alene and the middle sections around Cataldo and Tensed hold good numbers.

Topwater lures—poppers, walking baits, and small plugs—produce explosive strikes in early morning and late evening. During midday, move to deeper water and slower current breaks, fishing soft plastics like 4-inch tubes or crawdad imitations. Rocky points, current seams, and areas with fallen timber are prime spots. The river's smallmouth are aggressive and will chase lures, making this fishery rewarding for anglers who enjoy active, visual fishing. No special restrictions apply beyond standard Idaho bass regulations.

Access, Launches, and Regulations

Public boat launches are located at Coeur d'Alene (near the lake outlet), Cataldo, and several smaller access points downstream. The Coeur d'Alene launch is the most developed and offers parking and facilities. Cataldo is a smaller, quieter option that puts you in good steelhead and walleye water. Confirm water levels and launch conditions before you go, especially in summer when dam releases can fluctuate.

You will need a valid Idaho fishing license, available online through the Idaho Department of Fish and Game or at local sporting goods stores. Seasons, bag limits, and gear restrictions vary by species and sometimes by river section, so review the current Idaho fishing regulations before you fish. Steelhead have specific seasons and gear rules (barbless hooks in some areas), walleye have daily bag limits, and bass follow standard state regulations. The river is open to public fishing, but respect private property along the banks and use designated access points.

Water Conditions and Best Times to Fish

The Spokane River's flow is managed by dams upstream, so water levels can change significantly throughout the day and season. Spring runoff (April through June) brings high, cold, turbid water that is difficult to fish; fall and winter offer clearer, more stable conditions. Summer can see low water and warm temperatures, which stress fish and make midday fishing poor. Check the U.S. Geological Survey's real-time streamflow data for the Spokane River near Post Falls to see current conditions before you leave home.

Overcast days and low-light periods (dawn, dusk, and night) are consistently more productive than bright midday sun. Steelhead are most active in fall and early winter when water temperatures drop. Walleye bite best in spring and fall. Smallmouth bass are most aggressive in summer early morning and evening. If you can only fish during midday in summer, focus on deeper water and slower current breaks where fish retreat from the heat and bright light.

Gear and Tackle Recommendations

For steelhead, a 7- to 8-foot medium-action rod with a good drag system and 12- to 15-pound line handles drifting and swinging. Bring roe, sand shrimp, small spoons (1/4 to 3/8 ounce), and plugs in natural colors. A net is essential—steelhead are strong and the river has current. For walleye, a 6- to 7-foot medium rod with 8- to 10-pound line works well. Stock jigs in 1/8 to 1/4 ounce, live minnows, and soft plastics in natural and chartreuse. For smallmouth bass, a 6- to 6.5-foot medium-light rod with 8- to 10-pound line is ideal. Bring topwater lures, tubes, crawdad imitations, and a few crankbaits.

Waders are useful for steelhead and walleye fishing, especially in fall and winter. A life jacket is required by law in Idaho when operating a motorized boat and is strongly recommended for all river fishing. Polarized sunglasses help you spot fish and structure, and a headlamp is essential if you fish early morning or evening. The river can be cold and current is real, so dress for immersion and never fish alone.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best month to fish the Spokane River?

It depends on what you want to catch. October and November are excellent for steelhead when water temperatures drop and fish are most active. April and May are prime for walleye. June through August favor smallmouth bass. If you want to fish year-round, fall offers the most consistent action across all three species.

Do I need a boat to fish the Spokane River?

No. Bank access exists at several points, especially near Coeur d'Alene and Cataldo, and you can wade in many sections. A boat gives you more water to cover and access to deeper pools, but it is not required. Wading is productive for steelhead and smallmouth bass in particular.

What size fish can I expect to catch?

Steelhead average 8 to 12 pounds. Walleye typically run 12 to 16 inches with occasional larger fish. Smallmouth bass average 12 to 16 inches with a solid population of 16- to 18-inch fish. These are healthy populations, and larger fish are caught regularly.

Is the Spokane River safe to fish in winter?

Winter fishing is cold and the river has current, so it requires caution. Wear a life jacket, dress for immersion, and never fish alone. Water temperatures in winter are in the 40s, so hypothermia is a real risk if you fall in. Many anglers fish the Spokane in winter successfully, but it demands respect and preparation.

Where can I find current water level information?

The U.S. Geological Survey maintains real-time streamflow data for the Spokane River near Post Falls. Search "USGS Spokane River streamflow" to see current conditions, which help you decide whether water is fishable and whether launches are accessible.