Quick Details
CJ Strike Reservoir is a large reservoir caused by the construction of CJ Strike Dam, and backs up large portions of both the Snake and Bruneau Rivers. CJ Strike, unlike many other Southern Idaho reservoirs, is always held at full pool. This means it doesn’t suffer from the large draw downs like other impoundments and leads to consistent water levels all year round.
It offers year-round fishing opportunities for a large number of species: Rainbow Trout, Smallmouth Bass, Largemouth Bass, Crappie, Yellow Perch, Channel Catfish, Bluegill, and the reigning champion of them all huge White Sturgeon. It is consistently one of the best Crappie, Perch, and Bass fisheries in the state. Anglers flock here from throughout the region to get in on the amazing fishing!
The section of the Snake River that CJ Strike is located on is one of only two healthy self-sustaining White Sturgeon populations in the State of Idaho. The sturgeon fishing here is simply amazing and produces consistent action with the summer months being the absolute best for chasing these giant river monsters. Fish in the 7-9 foot class are common, and there are fish in the system that will measure to 10 feet or more.
Although better known as a warm water fishery, CJ Strike boasts one of the best open water Fall, Winter, and Spring Rainbow Trout fisheries in Southern Idaho. While many locations are locked up with ice, CJ Strike remains ice free most years giving both boat and bank anglers a great opportunity to catch lots of nice trout for the dinner table. Some very large Rainbows can be found here, and fish greater than 25 inches are not uncommon!