The Boise River runs right through the center of Boise and although it is not considered a Blue Ribbon trout stream, it is an amazing Urban Fishery.

Located less than three miles from the airport the Boise River is thought of as one of the city’s most treasured recreational venues. A series of beautiful public parks parallel the river and are linked by the beautiful 35-mile long Boise Greenbelt system. The Greenbelt provides a myriad of year round recreational opportunities that include walking, running, bicycling and wildlife viewing. The wildlife abounds with chances to see Deer, Mink, Beavers, Foxes, Great Blue Herons, Bald Eagles and other birds of prey. The Boise River itself provides floating, swimming and of course FISHING!!

The Boise River through town is a tailwater fishery that provides nearby angling opportunities to residents and visitors alike. The opportunities that fly fishers can expect to hook are wild Rainbow Trout, Brown Trout and Native Whitefish. Idaho Fish and Game generously stock a few sections of the river with catchable size Rainbow Trout. These stocked trout give beginner and intermediate anglers positive reinforcement by graciously eating there offering. The wild trout found in the Bosie River are smart and can reach lengths of two feet or bigger. The Boise River although not known for its hatches have solid numbers of Caddis, Midges and some Mayflies. The Mayflies, including PMD’s, BWO’s and Tricos. These water born insects hatch at different times of the year and on different sections of the river. The large trout get there size from the abundance of Sculpin and Crayfish in the river.

Steelhead and even large Chinook Salmon from Hells Canyon are stocked at certain times of the year if the return of these anadromous fish are bountiful. These additions to the stream can really make a day of fishing exciting!