Largemouth Bass

If you're heading to Rupert, Idaho in search of largemouth bass, you'll want to focus your efforts on the Minidoka Reservoir, and the various canals and sloughs that feed into the Snake River. This area offers a diverse range of habitat, from submerged vegetation and rocky points to shallow, weedy backwaters, all holding bass. Spring and early summer are prime times, as the bass move into the shallows to spawn. Fall can also be productive as they feed up for the winter. A local tip: Pay attention to water levels in the canals, as fluctuating water can concentrate fish. Also, try fishing around the old railroad bridge pilings in the reservoir – they often hold good-sized bass. The bass in this region tend to be relatively aggressive, so don't be afraid to throw reaction baits like crankbaits and spinnerbaits, especially in stained water. Plastics are always a good bet too, fished around weed edges and submerged structure.