HUNTING & FISHING OPPORTUNITIES

Hunting

Hunting in the Bear Lake valley dates back to the early settlers, native Americans and mountain men that first laid eyes on this area. Game birds and big game animals thrived in the valley.

Today, the majestic Rocky Mountain Elk (Wapiti), the regal Mule Deer and the unique Shiras moose are elusive quarry of big game hunters. These healthy herds of game animals need to be managed through the use of hunting in order to ensure their survival. State wildlife managers carefully review local winter range carrying capacities, the ratio of males to females, and fawn mortality surveys to determine the availability of hunting permits and tags. Popular hunting equipment includes cartridge and black powder rifles and archery equipment such as compound, long, and recurve bows.

Other local animals that have hunting and/or trapping seasons include: ducks, geese, sage grouse, gray partridge, blue and ruffed grouse, black bears, bobcats, mountain lions (cougars), coyotes, fox, and wild turkey. Occasionally, reports come in with sightings of rare and protected animals such as wolverine, lynx, grizzley bears, (and even Bigfoot!); however, few sightings are confirmed, if any. Wolves are now known to be increasing in numbers in the area. No hunting season is available for these animals and actually carry a large fine and possible jail time if found with possession of one of these protected species.

Fishing

Anglers come from miles around to enjoy the various fishing opportunities found in the Bear Lake valley.

Bear Lake is home to a trophy cutthroat trout fishery where the Idaho State record cutthroat of 19 lbs. was caught. Lake trout (mackinaw) also inhabit the lake and may grow to 30 lbs. Trolling and jigging from boats can be done throughout the year (winter and spring months being the most productive).

There are four endemic fish species in Bear Lake: the Bonneville cisco (Prosopium gemmifer), the Bonneville whitefish (Prosopium spilonotus), the Bear Lake whitefish (Prosopium abyssicola), and the Bear Lake sculpin (Cottus extensus). The January-February spawning run of the Bonneville cisco draws fishing enthusiast who dip nets to capture the small swift fish.

Anglers also dunk worms, cast lures and float artificial flies on many of the area lakes, reservoirs, streams and creeks. Float tubes are especially popular at Montpelier Reservoir. The Montpelier Rearing Pond has easy access for small children and physically-challenged individuals who wish to fish.

Caution to Poachers

True Bear Lake valley outdoor enthusiasts love and respect the wild resources that we have here. We welcome all hunters and anglers to come and enjoy; however, poachers are not welcome here! The Bear Lake valley is patrolled by both Utah and Idaho law enforcement and conservation officers. Poachers of our fish and game are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law in order to protect our natural resources. Eyes are everywhere and poaching misdeeds are reported to the local authorities. If you witness any poaching activities, please call Idaho Citizens Against Poaching at 1-800-632-5999, or the Utah Poaching Hotline at 1-800-662-DEER.