Idaho Fish and Game stocks Gem lake
IDAHO FALLS, Idaho (KIFI) - Idaho Department of Fish and Game began stocking fish in Gem Lake on Wednesday. The department plans to stock Gem lake with 3,000 catchable (10 to 12-inch) Yellowstone cutthroat trout.
The department's hatcheries make around 200 stops each year to stock different bodies of water. Which becomes more difficult in drought conditions.
"Drought is an issue, and it always is an issue in the summertime in Idaho. But more likely it's water temperature and not access to the water. If it's higher than 70 degrees we can't stock it," said Director of American Falls Hatchery Kevin Yelton. "What's nice about this is it's flowing water. So in the summer, like today is going to be 95, and this water temperature is 65 and will remain 65. But as long as we have access and the water is cool, we can get fish out."
According to the department, all you need to get started is a fishing license and some basic tackle. Annual adult fishing licenses cost around $30, junior licenses (ages 14-17) cost $16 and youth under 14 fish for free. Click here to buy a license.
Gem Lake is one of 28 bodies of water the department will stock with trout along the snake river. For more information on when Fish and Game will be stocking trout in your area, visit our previous story HERE.
