Category: CJ Strike Fishing Reports

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Discover Unforgettable Fishing Trips Near Boise, Idaho: CJ Strike Reservoir and the Snake River

Are you an avid angler or someone looking to experience the thrill of fishing? Welcome to Jones Sport Fishing your ultimate destination for exciting fishing trips near Boise, Idaho! Join us as we explore two of the most stunning fishing spots in the region: CJ Strike Reservoir and the Snake River.

Why Choose Fishing Trips Near Boise?

Boise, known for its beautiful landscapes and vibrant outdoor activities, is a fantastic starting point for fishing enthusiasts. With our guided fishing trips, you’ll have the chance to escape the bustle of city life and immerse yourself in nature. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a beginner, there’s something for everyone!

White Sturgeon caught on the Snake River near CJ Strike Reservoir

CJ Strike Reservoir: A Hidden Gem

Located just a short drive from Boise, CJ Strike Reservoir is renowned for its diverse fish population and breathtaking scenery. This expansive reservoir offers abundant opportunities to catch species such as sturgeon, bass, crappie, and trout.

Our fishing trips at CJ Strike are designed to provide you with a memorable experience. With knowledgeable guides, you’ll learn about the best fishing techniques and local fishing regulations. The tranquil waters combined with picturesque views make this spot a paradise for anglers seeking relaxation and adventure.

Cast Your Line on the Snake River

The Snake River is another must-visit fishing destination near Boise. Famous for its stunning canyons and rich wildlife, the river is home to various fish species, including rainbow trout and sturgeon. Our fishing excursions on the Snake River cater to all skill levels, ensuring that everyone can enjoy a day on the water.

Imagine casting your line while surrounded by the breathtaking landscapes of Idaho. Our expert guides will take you to the best fishing holes, sharing tips and tricks to help you make the most out of your fishing trip. Plus, the opportunity to witness the local wildlife adds an unforgettable touch to your experience.

Crappie and Perch fishing at CJ Strike Reservoir

What to Expect on Your Fishing Trip

When you book a fishing trip with Jones Sport Fishing you can expect:

  • All Equipment Provided: We supply all the necessary gear, so you can focus on fishing.
  • Expert Guidance: Our experienced guides know the waters and will provide personalized tips.
  • Safety First: We prioritize safety on all our trips, ensuring you have a worry-free experience.
  • Memories to Last a Lifetime: Enjoy quality time with friends or family while immersing yourself in the beauty of Idaho’s outdoors.

Book Your Fishing Adventure Today!

Are you ready to reel in the big one? Don’t miss out on the incredible fishing opportunities waiting for you at CJ Strike Reservoir and the Snake River. Visit jonessportfishing.com to learn more about our fishing trips near Boise, Idaho, and to book your adventure today. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or looking for an exciting day trip, we’re here to make your fishing dreams come true!

Make memories, catch fish, and explore the beautiful waters of Idaho with Jonessportfishing.com! Contact us today for more details and let the adventure begin!

Idaho Sturgeon caught near Boise, Idaho
Idaho Sturgeon caught near Boise, Idaho on the Snake River
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Why Southern Idaho is the Ultimate Sturgeon Fishing Destination

When it comes to sturgeon fishing, few places in the western United States can compare to the abundant waters of southern Idaho, particularly around CJ Strike Reservoir. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a newcomer hoping to snag some impressive catches, this remarkable region offers an exceptional fishing experience you won’t want to miss.

The Sturgeon: A Unique Challenge

Sturgeon are one of the world’s oldest fish species, often characterized by their unique appearance and impressive size. Known for their powerful fight and gentle nature, these fish provide both a thrilling and fulfilling fishing experience. CJ Strike Reservoir and the Snake River is home to healthy populations of white sturgeon making it a prime location for anglers seeking a true adventure.

Abundant Waters at CJ Strike Reservoir

Located just southeast of Boise, CJ Strike Reservoir is renowned for its vast and diverse aquatic ecosystem. Stretching over 20 miles, this reservoir offers a variety of habitats perfect for sturgeon. Anglers can find success in different areas—whether you’re fishing shallow bays, deep channels, or rocky structures. The natural beauty of the surrounding landscape paired with the thrill of going after these formidable fish creates an unforgettable outing.

The waters of CJ Strike are particularly well-suited for sturgeon due to ample forage and optimal spawning conditions. The combination of these factors leads to larger fish and more active feeding times, which translates into a more successful fishing trip.

Accessibility and Ease of Travel

One of the standout features of fishing in southern Idaho is the convenience of travel. The Boise Airport (BOI) is the gateway to your sturgeon fishing adventure, providing multiple daily flights from major cities across the country. Once you’ve arrived, it’s just a short drive to CJ Strike Reservoir, making it easy to transition from air travel to the great outdoors.

With various accommodations available nearby, including campgrounds, lodges, and rental cabins, you can easily set up a home base for your sturgeon fishing expedition. This accessibility means you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time casting your line.

Local Guides and Resources

For those new to sturgeon fishing or unfamiliar with CJ Strike Reservoir, working with a local guide can enhance your experience significantly. Dedicated professionals know the ins and outs of the water, ensure your safety, and maximize your chances of landing a trophy sturgeon. Many offer half-day and full-day trips tailored to your needs, whether you’re targeting trophy fish or just having fun with friends and family.

Supporting Local Conservation Efforts

Fishing plays a critical role in the conservation of local ecosystems. By participating in sustainable fishing practices and supporting local fishing guides and businesses, you contribute to the preservation of Idaho’s natural resources. This commitment ensures that future generations will also have the opportunity to enjoy sturgeon fishing in the beautiful waters of southern Idaho.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for an exciting fishing destination, look no further than southern Idaho and CJ Strike Reservoir. With its bountiful sturgeon population, beautiful scenery, ease of access from Boise Airport, and excellent local support, this area is truly the ultimate sturgeon fishing destination in the West.

So pack your gear, book your travel to Boise, and get ready for an unforgettable sturgeon fishing adventure in southern Idaho. Don’t forget to visit jonessportfishing.com for tips, guides, and everything else you need to make your fishing trip a success!

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Discover the Ultimate Sturgeon Fishing Experience in Idaho

When it comes to sturgeon fishing, few places can rival the breathtaking beauty and abundant opportunities found in Idaho. At Jones Sport Fishing, we’re here to highlight the incredible areas we fish for sturgeon and explain why your next fishing adventure should take you to the heart of Idaho’s pristine waters.

Why Choose Idaho for Sturgeon Fishing?

Idaho is home to some of the most stunning landscapes and ecosystems in the United States. With rivers and lakes teeming with fish, it’s no wonder that sturgeon fishing has become a must-do activity for anglers from all over the nation. Here are several reasons why sturgeon fishing in Idaho should be at the top of your destination list:

  1. Year-Round Fishing Opportunities: Unlike many fishing destinations, Idaho offers anglers the unique opportunity to fish for sturgeon year-round. This means that no matter the season, there’s always a chance to hook into these magnificent fish.
  2. Expert Guidance from Local Professionals: At Jones Sport Fishing, our experienced guides are familiar with the local waters and know the best spots for sturgeon fishing. They are equipped with the latest techniques and tips to ensure that you have a successful outing.
  3. Diverse Fishing Locations: We fish in a variety of areas that are perfect for sturgeon, including American Falls, CJ Strike Reservoir, the King Hill area, and the lower end of Hell’s Canyon. These waters not only boast robust sturgeon populations but also offer beautiful scenery, making your fishing experience both enjoyable and memorable.
  4. Catch and Release Practices: Our commitment to sustainable fishing means that we promote catch and release practices, ensuring that the sturgeon population remains healthy for future generations. You can enjoy the thrill of catching a sturgeon while knowing that you’re helping conserve Idaho’s natural resources.

Prime Sturgeon Fishing Areas in Idaho

At Jones Sport Fishing, we target several key locations renowned for their sturgeon fishing potential:

  • Snake River in Southern Idaho: We target the Snake River South East of Boise Idaho in the CJ Strike area, and the Snake River between CJ Strike Dam and the town of Bliss. This is one of the best natural spawning areas in the Snake River for white sturgeon and is our flagship area for sturgeon fishing in Idaho. One of our owners, Brett Jones guided the current Idaho catch and release state record holder to his awesome catch here. That fish measuring 10’4” as of the date this was written still stands as the record for Idaho.
  • Lower Hells Canyon: The lower end of Hell’s Canyon is a top destination for sturgeon anglers. Located near the towns of Lewiston, Idaho and Clarkston, Washington, This area offer fantastic sturgeon fishing in the lower end of Americas deepest canyon. Catch rates here are not as high as the Souther Idaho or American Falls areas, but hooking and landing multiple big fish in a day is definitely a possibility. There are some very large sturgeon in this area, and added bonus of fantastic smallmouth bass fishing can be combined to any sturgeon trip in this area from April – October. Also during the months of September-March multi day trips can be arranged that target salmon or steelhead one day, and Sturgeon the next.
  • American Falls: This is probably the best location we offer for overall numbers of fish caught. The American Falls Sturgeon area offer a very high catch rate for fish that are generally between 3-7 feet with fish over 8 feet in length caught on occasion, but not at the rate of our other areas. The high catch rate in this area is perfect for kids.

Preparing for Your Sturgeon Fishing Adventure

If you’re ready for an unforgettable sturgeon fishing adventure, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Dress Appropriately: Since sturgeon can be caught year-round, be sure to dress for the weather conditions. Layers are essential, especially during the cooler months. During cold weather make sure to bring waders so you can get in the water with these awesome fish and get that perfect picture.
  • Stay Hydrated and Energized: Fishing can be a physically demanding activity, so stay hydrated and bring snacks to keep your energy levels up throughout the day.

Conclusion

Idaho is a sturgeon fishing paradise waiting to be explored. With year-round fishing opportunities, stunning scenery, and experienced local guides, there’s no better place for anglers to embark on their next fishing adventure. Visit Jonessportfishing.com today to book your guided trip and discover the thrill of sturgeon fishing in Idaho—where every catch is a story waiting to be told!

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Winter Crappie Fishing at CJ Strike: Why Pre-Spawn is the Best Time to Cast Your Line

As winter tightens its grip on Idaho, many anglers believe that fishing slows to a halt. However, savvy fishers know that crappie fishing during the pre-spawn period at CJ Strike Reservoir can yield incredible results. This hidden gem in Idaho’s angling landscape offers ideal conditions for targeting crappie throughout the colder months. In this article, we will explore why pre-spawn fishing is exceptionally productive and provide you with tips to make the most of your adventure, all while highlighting how you can plan your trip with Jonessportfishing.com.

Why Pre-Spawn Crappie Fishing is So Productive

1. Crappie Behavior in Winter

As water temperatures drop, crappie tend to school up in deeper waters and near structure. During the pre-spawn period, which typically begins when water temperatures rise to around 45-50°F, crappie start moving towards shallower areas in anticipation of spawning. This migration makes them easier to locate and catch, as they often congregate in larger schools.

2. Ideal Conditions at CJ Strike

CJ Strike Reservoir boasts an abundance of underwater structures like submerged trees, rocky points, and drop-offs that crappie love. As the weather starts to warm slightly leading into spring, these structures become hotspots for crappie fishing. The reservoir also experiences less boat traffic during the winter, allowing for a more serene fishing experience.

3. Optimal Techniques for Success

While jigging with soft plastics or bait works well, employing techniques such as vertical jigging or trolling can lead to better catches. When targeting pre-spawn crappies, look for them suspended over deeper water or near brush piles. Experimenting with various colors and sizes can help you find the right lure to entice these finicky fish.

Tips for a Successful Winter Crappie Fishing Trip

  • Gear Up Properly: Cold weather can be a deterrent for fishing, but having the right gear makes all the difference. Dress in layers, invest in quality gloves and hats, and consider using thermal clothing to stay warm on the water.
  • Take Advantage of Early Light: Fish are often more active during dawn and dusk, so plan your outings accordingly. Arriving early can increase your chances of a successful catch.
  • Stay Patient and Observant: Crappie fishing requires patience. Pay attention to your surroundings and any signs of fish activity, such as surface feeding or birds diving.

Booking Your Winter Fishing Adventure

If you’re ready to experience the thrill of winter crappie fishing at CJ Strike Reservoir, Jonessportfishing.com is your go-to resource for booking guided trips. Our expert guides are familiar with the local waters and have the knowledge to help you find and catch crappie during the pre-spawn period.

Simply visit Jonessportfishing.com to explore our trip options, learn about our experienced guides, and secure your spot for an unforgettable fishing adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a newcomer to the sport, we are dedicated to providing you with the tools and expertise necessary for a successful trip.

Conclusion

Winter crappie fishing at CJ Strike Reservoir during the pre-spawn season is an opportunity you won’t want to miss. With the right preparation, techniques, and guidance from Jonessportfishing.com, you can reel in impressive catches while enjoying the tranquility of Idaho’s winter landscape. Don’t let the cold deter you—gear up, head out, and discover the excitement of crappie fishing this winter!

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Fall Into Great Sturgeon Fishing

The days are getting shorter, hunting seasons are open, and temperatures are dropping. This means one of the best times of year to chase sturgeon is upon us. Fall is one of the absolute best times of year to catch sturgeon as they feed heavily to stock up on critical fat reserves that will get them through the cold winter months ahead.

All of our sturgeon fisheries fish great during the Fall. Now is prime time for both our Southern Idaho area’s and Hells Canyon. Fall is also one of the best times of year to add some additional fishing opportunities onto your Sturgeon trip. In Southern Idaho Crappie and Perch fishing can be done on the same day with sturgeon, and in Hells Canyon we can easily do a sturgeon and steelhead combo trip. We can’t think of a better trip then catching world famous Snake River Steelhead in addition to battling huge Sturgeon.

We currently have openings in both Southern Idaho and Hells Canyon, so if you have been thinking of a sturgeon trip with us it’s not too late in the year, and you may end up on one of our best trips of the year.

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Spring Fishing Opportunities

Columbia River Walleye

Columbia River Walleye, CJ Strike and Hells Canyon Sturgeon, American Falls Trout, and CJ Strike Crappie!

These are just a few of the options that we have right now to get you out on the water this spring with us. March is our official kickoff for our Columbia River Walleye season, and we couldn’t be more excited to chase these tasty and challenging fish. Walleye are one of the most sought after fish in the Columbia basin, and we cant wait to be out on the river chasing them.

March also means the giant white Sturgeon of the Snake River really start to wake up and feed.  We have already had some fantastic Sturgeon fishing the past month or so, and that will just continue to get better as the weather warms, and water temps make getting in the water for a glory shot even more enjoyable.  We are having great success on CJ Strike Reservoir located and hour south of Boise, ID as well as on the lower end of Hell’s Canyon near Lewiston, ID.  Both of these fisheries are a great way to get out on the water and enjoy one of the coolest fish that swims in our Idaho waters.  

March is also our kickoff for trophy trout on the Snake River near American Falls, as well as American Falls Reservoir.  March is one of the best times to spend a day in one of our drift boats fly fishing for the huge trout that call the Snake River home.  This is an amazing opportunity to try and break the 10 pound mark on some huge fish.  As March moves on and river levels rise with spring flows the power boat fishing on the river becomes the hottest bite around.  This is a fantastic fishery and its all catch and release with no bait through the Saturday of memorial day weekend.  The river fishery at American Falls is our bread and butter, and we would love the opportunity to show you why we love this place so much.  

Along with the Snake River at American Falls March also means its time to chase trophy rainbows on American Falls reservoir.  Last year Brett broke the catch and release state record with a 31.5 inch rainbow caught of the reservoir.  While this is a great fish its not even considered a monster on this system.  The huge Rainbows, Browns, and Rainbow/ Cutthroat Hybrids that prowl this huge reservoir are breathtaking, and we have the inside knowledge to put you on these amazing fish.  Along with awesome trophy opportunity we can also target the plentiful 18-24 inch rainbows that are amazing table fare.  the trout limit on the reservoir is 6 trout, although we only advocate harvesting rainbows and hybrids, as the natural reproducing browns and cutthroat are a true gems worth retuning to the river.   

Finally how can we forget the fantastic Crappie fishing at CJ Strike. In recent days the crappie are starting to break out of their huge winter schools and are now moving around much more. As of yesterday they are no yet on the banks in the spawning areas, but it might only be a matter of a week or so before we start casting to large schools of crappie. Nothing is more fun for the entire family than a day spent loading up on these tasty fish. Not only are they an absolute blast to catch, but they are also one of the best tasting fresh water fish around.

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Hot Sturgeon action at CJ Strike!

The sturgeon fishing on CJ Strike Reservoir has been nothing short of fantastic! The bite has been hot and doesn’t show any signs of slowing down. Yesterday was the last day of February and Brett’s boat hooked 17 and landed 14! CJ is arguably the best sturgeon fishery in the state and catching double digit numbers is common. If you are looking for an awesome adventure catching lots of huge sturgeon then book a trip with us. You won’t be disappointed.

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Fantastic Crappie and Sturgeon fishing at CJ Strike!

The absolute lights out winter crappie and perch fishing continues at CJ Strike Reservoir. Located only an hour south of Boise, Idaho this is a truly special place for anglers in southern idaho who are looking for a local get away close to home. One of the best things about CJ Strike is the diversity of this fishery. On any day we can target Crappie, Perch, Smallmouth and Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, huge White Sturgeon, and the ever present fantastic Rainbow Trout Fishery.

Lately our boats have been focusing on the Crappie, Perch, and white sturgeon. We had 2 boats out last Saturday and between them they took 200 crappie and caught and released 12 sturgeon, with the largest fish going 9’1”.

We have been finding all our crappie suspended over deep water. Most of the crappie schools tend to be suspend from 30-50 feet over both deep water flats, and deep water humps. On the flats the fish tend to be moving around a lot, and the schools come and go very quickly, but on the humps fish are tending to hold in the same area all day. This makes these bunches of fish very accessible.

We have also noticed that schools of fish that are more related to the bottom tend to have a bunch more perch in them and provide some awesome mixed bag fishing.

Currently we are finding fish in all parts of the reservoir. Most people relate the narrows as the epicenter of the crappie and perch fishing on CJ Strike, but we have been finding huge piles of fish up the Snake Arm as well. CJ is a huge place, so if fishing around other boats is not your cup of tea then get out and explore. You will be greatly rewarded. Below is a video of Brett giving a quick rundown on how he is targeting these large schools of fish.

We have boats available most days to get you out fishing, and the best thing about CJ is that it’s a year round fishery, so if your more in warm weather adventures make sure to get you spring and summer trips lined up now before we get super busy.

If your ready to book, or just want to talk to us about a trip, please give our office a call at 208-669-1569 or click the green book online button at the top of the page. We can’t wait to get you out on the water.

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Awesome Winter Fishing at CJ Strike

CJ Strike is arguably the crown jewel as far as winter fisheries go in Southern Idaho. Located an hour south of Boise, Idaho it is home to a fantastic winter Crappie and Yellow Perch bite, and can also produce some of the best open water trout fishing in the area.

Over the last several weeks we have been targeting the insane numbers of Crappie that have been filling live wells since last spring. During the winter months most panfish species (crappie, bluegills, and perch) suspend mid water column over deep water. We locate these huge schools of fish and target them by vertically jigging the same style of flutter spoons common to ice fishing.

Over the last two weeks the big schools of fish have been mostly hanging out in 30-50 feet of water over 70 feet of water. To locate these fish we cruise the 70 foot flats with our electronics until we dial in the area they are using. We then use the spot lock feature on our bow mount trolling motor to essentially anchor on the fish. This allows us to stay directly over the schools while we drop our gear into the zone. With multiple anglers fishing it’s nothing to put 50 + fish in the boat in a number of hours.

If you decide to get the boat out and head to CJ Strike a word of caution is warranted. This reservoir can get nasty fast in a very short amount of time. Make sure you plan your launch site accordingly so that if the wind does come up you can safely return to port. With that said this is a fantastic fishery that needs to be enjoyed. These huge numbers of Crappie won’t be around long, as crappie numbers are naturally very cyclicals and go through boom and bust cycles often. We are now in an amazing boom, so get out there and enjoy!

We run guided fishing trips year round on CJ Strike Reservoir. This crappie fishery will be on fire all through the spring, and we will be there catching and enjoying these tasty fish. We also fish for trout, sturgeon, and bass. The trout fishing is good now, and come spring and summer the Sturgeon fishing is amazing. If you looking to learn this fishery there is no better option than booking a trip with us. Our guides have the knowledge and are very willing to share their tips and tricks with anyone that wants to learn.