By Glen Bruderer


Idaho anglers should expect most of the same fishing opportunities in 2008 as in years past - only with more water.

Idaho fishing regulations changed very little from 2007, but the spring runoff will play a key role in how Idaho's fishing waters will fish in the spring and early summer.
There are, however, a few things that should be noted in the new rulebook.
To start with, anglers should particularly note the sturgeon rules. Sturgeon must live for 25 to 50 years to reach maturity. To get this old they need some help from anglers. Many have been found tangled in line or have been found hooked to the bottom of the river on lost gear.

"We are trying to raise awareness regarding sturgeon fishing in general and the C.J. Strike population in particular," says Lance Hebdon of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.

"This population is heavily fished, and we want folks to take care of each of these special, trophy fish."

Also, remember steelhead rules are in the back of the new regulations. There are many fish in Idaho's rivers, so give them a try. Spring, fall and winter are great times to toss them a fly.

Early forecasts say salmon should show up in greater numbers this year. Fishery managers are predicting nearly 100,000 chinook, or king, salmon across Lower Granite Dam on their return to Idaho.

It is too early to tell, but Fish and Game anticipates opening some stretches of river that haven't seen a salmon season in 30 years. Seasons this year may include chinook fishing on the upper Salmon River. The last time anglers could fish for Chinook in the Sawtooth Valley was in 1977.

Remember your license. Sounds simple, but this remains the No. 1 Idaho fishing violation.

Lastly, Idaho Free Fishing Day is June 7. Take your family and friends and enjoy the beauty Idaho has to offer.