Bear River Oneida
By
Dave Langston



The Bear River is a hot topic, with the threat of a dam and changing of the water system anglers are voicing their opinions at meetings hoping the dam will not move in and disrupt the fabulous fishing this system offers anglers and campers alike.

If you have never been here I suggest a trip should be in short order. Bro wns and rainbow trout are common with walleye and smallmouth bass also providing anglers with a unique opportunity. “This is one of the most beautiful places in our part of the state, with massive canyon walls surrounding you and a river system that not only provides excellent fishing but rafting, kayaking and tubing for campers this is the perfect place to stay for a few days,” says avid outdoorsman Dave Jackman of Blackfoot.

He is right, anglers and outdoorsmen need to voice their opinions by calling Idaho Fish & Game 208-232-4703 for more information on how to stop the proposed destruction of the Bear River and Oneida reservoir system. This will also affect future deer, elk and wild turkey hunts in the future.

Walleye anglers are taking a few just below the reservoir and also into the Bear River near cottonwood creek as fish are making the attempt to spawn. Don’t worry about taking home spawning females as Fish and Game reports walleyes are not successfully spawning but only going through the motions.

Smallmouths should also be on the take within the next few weeks. Concentrate near the face of the dam on the reservoir and also below the dam in the river system. The river is dotted with deep water and boulders providing excellent habitat for bronzebacks.

I did receive a call from Utah power and lighting a few weeks ago and they ask that all anglers need to stay clear of the spillway. They are posting signs where you can access the river. This is for your safety. Please respect the postings as we don not want to get booted out of this fabulous fishery.