What the Spokane River offers and when to fish it

The Spokane River runs 111 miles from Spokane Falls to the Idaho border, where it joins the Columbia River. It holds rainbow trout, brown trout, and kokanee salmon, with the best fishing concentrated in two main sections: the upper river from the falls to Long Lake (roughly 30 miles), and the lower river below the nine dams that create a chain of reservoirs. The upper section is faster, colder, and more technical; the lower section is slower, warmer in summer, and more forgiving for beginners.

Spring (April through June) brings the strongest bite on the upper river as snowmelt clears and water temperatures climb into the 50s. Fall (September through November) is equally productive, with cooler water and active fish preparing for winter. Summer (July and August) can be slow on the upper river due to heat and low water, but the lower reservoirs remain consistent. Winter fishing is possible but limited by ice and access.

The river's character changes dramatically depending on which section you fish and which dam releases are happening that day. Understanding the difference between upper and lower river, and checking dam schedules before you go, will save you a wasted trip.

Key Takeaways

  • The upper Spokane River (Spokane Falls to Long Lake) is best in spring and fall when water is clear and temperatures are moderate; the lower river (below the dams) fishes consistently year-round but is warmest and slowest in midsummer.
  • Rainbow and brown trout dominate the upper river; kokanee and larger browns are more common in the lower reservoirs, particularly in fall.
  • Access to the upper river is easiest at Gonzaga Park, Holmberg Park, and the Spokane Falls area; lower river access requires boat launch fees at Barker Commons, Long Lake, and other reservoir parks.
  • Flows from dam releases can change water levels and current speed dramatically within hours, so check the Avista dam schedule before fishing the upper river.
  • A Washington fishing license is required; no special endorsement is needed for the Spokane River, but check current regulations for daily limits and seasonal closures.

Upper Spokane River: Spokane Falls to Long Lake

The upper river is a freestone stream with pocket water, runs, and pools. It flows fast in spring and early summer, then slows and warms as the season progresses. The best holding water is behind boulders, in the seams between fast and slow current, and in deeper pools below riffles. Fish here are selective and respond to accurate casting and natural presentations.

Fly fishing dominates this section. Small nymphs (size 14–18) work year-round; caddis and mayfly dry flies are effective in spring and early fall. Spin anglers do well with small spoons (1/8 to 1/4 ounce) and inline spinners, particularly in faster water. The upper river is also popular for float trips from Gonzaga Park down to Holmberg Park, a drift of roughly 5 miles that takes 2 to 3 hours and passes through several productive sections.

Access points include Gonzaga Park (free, day-use only, parking limited), Holmberg Park (free, day-use, restrooms available), and several pullouts along Riverside Drive. The river is wadeable in most places during normal flows, but dam releases can raise water levels quickly and make wading dangerous. Always check Avista's dam schedule before entering the water.

Lower Spokane River: Long Lake to the Idaho border

Below Long Lake, the river becomes a series of nine reservoirs created by Avista dams. These are slower, deeper, and warmer than the upper river. The largest reservoirs—Long Lake, Spokane Lake, and Coeur d'Alene Lake—hold bigger fish and are more productive for anglers who fish from boats. Kokanee salmon move into these reservoirs in late summer and fall, creating a distinct fishery from August through October.

Trolling is the primary method here. Anglers troll small spoons, plugs, and kokanee-specific lures in 20 to 40 feet of water. Jigging near dam structures and drop-offs also produces, particularly for brown trout. Shore fishing is possible at several parks but is less productive than boat fishing because most fish hold in deeper water away from the banks.

Boat launches are available at Barker Commons (Long Lake), Holmberg Park (Spokane Lake), and several county parks along the lower river. Launch fees vary by park; most charge $5 to $10 per day. Fuel and supplies are available in Spokane and Coeur d'Alene, but not at every launch, so plan accordingly.

Seasons and water conditions

Spring (April–June): Snowmelt clears by late April, and water temperatures climb from 45°F to 55°F. The upper river is at its peak. Flows are high but manageable. Nymphs and small dry flies work best. The lower reservoirs are still cold and less productive.

Summer (July–August): Upper river water temperatures exceed 65°F, and flows drop as dam releases decrease. Fishing slows significantly. The lower reservoirs warm but remain more consistent than the upper river. Kokanee begin moving into deeper water. Early morning and evening fishing is more productive than midday.

Fall (September–November): Water temperatures drop to 50–55°F. The upper river recovers and becomes excellent again. Kokanee are active in the lower reservoirs, and brown trout feed heavily in preparation for winter. This is the second-best season after spring. Flows are stable and predictable.

Winter (December–March): Upper river access is limited by ice and high flows. The lower reservoirs remain fishable but are slow. Some anglers fish for kokanee in the reservoirs, but success is inconsistent. Most fishing pressure moves to other Washington rivers.

Regulations and licensing

A valid Washington fishing license is required for anyone 16 and older. Licenses are available online through the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) website, at sporting goods stores, and at many grocery stores. A one-day license costs less than a full-year license if you are visiting.

Daily limits and seasonal closures vary by species and section. As of the most recent regulations, the upper river has a daily limit of 2 trout (combined rainbow and brown), and the lower reservoirs allow 5 trout per day. Kokanee limits are typically 10 per day during the open season. Check the WDFW website or call the Spokane office before you fish to confirm current rules, as regulations change annually and sometimes mid-season.

Some sections of the river are closed to fishing during specific periods to protect spawning fish. The upper river near Spokane Falls has seasonal closures; the lower reservoirs have fewer restrictions but may have gear restrictions (fly-only sections are rare on the Spokane). Always verify before you go.

Gear and tactics for the Spokane River

For the upper river, a 5-weight fly rod (8.5 to 9 feet) is standard. Bring a variety of nymphs, small dry flies, and a few streamers. Waders and felt-soled boots are essential for wading; the rocks are slippery. A net is useful but not required. Spin anglers should carry 1/8 to 1/4 ounce spoons and inline spinners in silver, gold, and natural colors.

For the lower reservoirs, a medium-action spinning rod or a trolling setup works well. Bring small spoons (1/2 to 3/4 ounce), plugs, and jigging lures. If you are trolling, a depth finder is helpful but not essential. A boat is nearly required for consistent success in the lower river; shore fishing is possible but unproductive compared to boat fishing.

The Spokane River is clear most of the year, so use light tippet (4X to 6X for fly fishing, 4 to 6 pound test for spinning) and make long, accurate casts. Fish are not aggressive and will refuse poorly presented flies or lures. Patience and precision matter more than power.

Getting there and where to stay

Spokane is the hub for access to the Spokane River. The upper river is within 15 minutes of downtown Spokane; the lower reservoirs are 30 to 45 minutes away depending on which section you target. Interstate 90 runs through Spokane and connects to US Route 395 and US Route 2, which provide access to various sections of the river.

Spokane has hotels, motels, and vacation rentals throughout the city. Camping is available at several county parks along the lower river, including Barker Commons and Holmberg Park, though these are day-use only during most of the year. The nearest full-service campgrounds are in the Coeur d'Alene area, about 45 minutes east.

Fly shops in Spokane (including Orvis and local independents) carry tackle, rent waders, and offer guided trips if you want local expertise. Guides are particularly useful for first-time visitors to the lower reservoirs or for anyone unfamiliar with the upper river's current patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wade the entire upper river safely?

Most of the upper river is wadeable during normal flows, but dam releases can raise water levels 2 to 3 feet in an hour, making wading dangerous. Always check the Avista dam schedule before entering the water, and be prepared to exit quickly if flows increase. Felt-soled boots are essential; the rocks are extremely slippery.

Do I need a boat to fish the lower reservoirs?

A boat is not required but is strongly recommended. Shore fishing is possible at parks and pullouts, but most fish hold in deeper water away from the banks. If you do not own a boat, several outfitters in Spokane offer guided boat trips and can arrange rentals.

What is the best time to catch kokanee on the Spokane River?

Kokanee are most active from late August through October in the lower reservoirs, particularly in Spokane Lake and Coeur d'Alene Lake. They move into deeper water as summer progresses and are best caught by trolling small spoons or jigging near structure. Early morning and late evening are most productive.

Are there any fly-only sections on the Spokane River?

No fly-only sections exist on the Spokane River. Spin fishing is allowed throughout. However, the upper river is popular with fly anglers and is well-suited to fly fishing due to its clear water and selective trout. Spin anglers do equally well with small spoons and spinners.

What should I do if I hook a large brown trout in the upper river?

Keep your rod tip up and maintain steady pressure. Brown trout are strong and will run into faster water or around rocks if given the chance. Use a net if you have one; trying to land a large brown by hand often results in a lost fish. If the fish runs downstream, follow it carefully—do not try to stop it with brute force.