St. Joe River

144.9-mile scenic river famed for native Westslope Cutthroat Trout. Called the highest elevation navigable river in the world. Upper 30-50 miles are a cutthroat trout paradise in gorgeous mountain setting. Most are wild and eager to take a dry fly.

Species: Westslope Cutthroat, Rainbow Trout, Bull Trout, Mountain Whitefish, Northern Pike. Difficulty: intermediate. Some experience pays off here.

Best timing: Summer and Fall. Summer fishes best at first light and late evening; midday is technical. Fall is prime — heavy feeding before winter, fewer crowds.

Regulations: Cutthroat and bull trout catch-and-release. Always confirm with the current IDFG rule book before fishing.

Panhandle context

Idaho's Panhandle is defined by its big, deep-water lakes and a temperate, lake-effect climate. Lake Pend Oreille produces Gerrard rainbows and lake trout; Coeur d'Alene Lake holds the state's strongest mixed warm-water fishery (smallmouth, northern pike, perch); the St. Joe is one of the most photographed wild westslope cutthroat rivers in the Lower 48. Coeur d'Alene, Sandpoint, and St. Maries are the bases.

Plan for the experience level the fishery rewards.