Upper Slate Lake Fishing Guide, Idaho County, Idaho

• Overview

  Upper Slate Lake lies in Idaho County, Idaho. Everything around it is rolling bush. About 3 acres of surface, which puts the far bank inside easy sight. It is a small entry by Idaho County standards. Supplies mean a trip to Grangeville, 25 miles off. For a city, Boise is 137 miles off. It sits well inside the county, so one set of rules covers it.

• Where to Fish on Upper Slate Lake

  There is no published depth for this one, so start shallow and work out. On a natural lake the weed line and the shelf beyond it do the work. A natural lake fishes on cover, and cover here means weed and timber. Idaho County records list rainbow trout, Chinook salmon and cutthroat trout among the fish reported. At least one recorded species is protected in parts of its range; read the local rules before targeting anything. Upper Slate Lake fishes better once you know its edges.

• Seasonal Patterns

  July runs about 52°F on average, December about 20°F. The season turns properly here, and fish follow it closely. The open season starts with the thaw, near enough mid May. On average, mid May opens the water and mid November closes it again. The open run goes from the thaw to the freeze, and April through October covers most of it. Plan around that when you fish Upper Slate Lake.

• Tackle & Baits

  Ownership and access are not documented in what we hold. Access points are not mapped for this water, which suits people who like quiet. Light line and small metal for the trout; a fly rod earns its place on calm evenings. State or provincial rules still apply whatever the bank status. Fishing rules and camping rules are set separately here. Slate Lake, 0.4 miles away, makes the obvious fallback. For Upper Slate Lake in particular, ask before you travel.