October-December 2007 Eletter
Welcome to the October-December 2007 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. This newsletter is focused on cold weather fishing on the Clearwater River.
Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: Let the fish pull the rod completely down. Their bite is slow in cold water.
Boating Tip: On power boats, warm up the motors with heaters and then run them for awhile before launching.
October – December Newsletter:
Steelhead fishing on the Clearwater River is better than most reports are saying.
In cold weather, use baits instead of plugs. The steelhead won’t move for plugs when it is cold. Fishing is slower in cold weather than warm because the fish are not as aggressive in cold water. Use sand shrimp and roe as usual.
Dress warm and in layers for the cold, wet weather. Be ready for weather changes with sunscreen, sun glasses, wool hats and rain gear.
Steelhead Chowder
Saute' cubed steelhead in olive oil and basil. Set aside until the end.
Saute' onions, celery and garlic in margarine. Add potatoes, carrots, chicken broth and seasonings. Simmer, covered for 20 minutes or until vegetables are nearly tender.
Add broccoli and cook 5 minutes. Add steelhead, evaporated milk and corn. Heat thoroughly. Sprinkle with minced cilantro to serve.
Makes 10 servings.
Fall 2007 Eletter
Welcome to the Fall 2007 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. This newsletter is focused on fly fishing on the Clearwater River.
Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: Leave a slack line and don’t set the hook while fly fishing.
Boating Tip: When getting out the boat to fly fish, be careful of where you wade. The Clearwater River depths are extremely varied, even in short distances.
Fall Newsletter:
The steelhead are coming. Numbers are really booming. Anglers are catching steelhead downriver now.
Fish down and across with the grease line technique. Let it bag at the end of the swing. Use a skating fly with a wet fly about four feet down the line. With the low water right now, use smaller flies. Don’t set the hook. Duller color flies are best for clear water. Clear water makes them look much brighter. Look at the local fly patterns. They work to a higher success than those brought in from somewhere else.
Use side pressure and let the fish pull the line. Work the seams and the ripples. Morning and evening fishing are better because there is no direct sunlight. Be patient and don't get disgusted.
With Catch and Release, we recommend a 7-8 weight rod. To best care for the steelhead between catch and release, turn them upside down when you get them to the bank. Then they won’t fight while you take out the fly. Tail them on the water. Don’t take them out of the river.
Use chains or studs on your footwear for traction on the slippery rocks. A staff is also recommended. We also recommend wearing an inflatable personal flotation device.
Everyone needs to be cooperative and courteous because there will be a lot of people on the river. Be careful. Have fun. Be courteous.
Crab Tacos
Ingredients:
Saute' crab meat, onion, garlic, cilantro and taco sauce seasoning in a skillet. Set aside. Preheat corn tortilla in microwave for 30 seconds to prevent from cracking. Spoon crab meat filling into tortillas. Brown in skillet until crisp on each side. Serve with grated cheese, lettuce and salsa.
Special Salmon 2007 Eletter
Welcome to the 2007 Chinook Salmon Season edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter.
Special Chinook Salmon Season Newsletter:
The Idaho Fish and Game Commission, meeting by telephone conference Friday morning, May 4, set a limited Spring Chinook Salmon season starting Friday, May 11, on the Clearwater River, and opening May 26 on the Lochsa River.
Fishing will be open Friday through Monday until July 16 – closing earlier if Fish and Game sees a biological need. Fishing will be permitted only a half hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset, local time. Chinook anglers will be allowed to keep 1 fish daily, have 3 in their possession and keep 10 for the season.
Anglers must stop fishing when they have reached daily, possession or season limits. It is unlawful to take or attempt to take salmon by snagging. They may use only barbless hooks no larger than five-eights of an inch from point to shank. In the Lochsa, salmon may be taken only with artificial flies and lures with barbless hooks and no bait.
Only Chinook marked with a scar from a clipped adipose fin may be kept.
All anglers, except residents younger than 14, must have a valid 2007 Idaho fishing license and salmon permit. Children under 14, including nonresidents, do not need a salmon permit but must be accompanied by a valid permit holder.
Fishing Boundaries are:
Contact us for reservations today by sending an email to guideshop@hotmail.com or calling 208-476-3531. For more information or to view our steelhead, salmon or Dworshak Reservoir slideshows visit other pages on our site.
January-March 2007 Eletter
Welcome to the January-March 2007 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing.
Boat Tip—If you are running a jet boat, warm up the jet pumps before going out. Cold weather can be hard on the equipment. The weather is very changeable this time of year.
With the changeable weather, it is a good idea to wear layered clothing so you can adjust more readily to the differences between early morning cold and late afternoon warm temperatures. Bring along rain gear for both the intermittent storms and to break the wind.
The Clearwater River is coming up with recent storms, but anglers are still catching steelhead. With the warmer weather and water, the fish are more active. When fishing, anglers need to get the bait down to the fish. The steelhead like reds the color of eggs and hot pinks like sand shrimp.
Bobbers and jigs are hot from the bank, especially on the North Fork of the Clearwater.
With changing weather, those coming from very far need to call ahead and check conditions before leaving home.
Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Place tomatoes and pickles in strainer to drain. Place corn chips in oven proof serving dish and top with fish, tomatoes, pickles, olives, guacamole, sour cream and other ingredients.
Bake for 15 minutes. Remove and serve.
September-December 2006 Eletter
Welcome to the September-December 2006 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing.
Merry Christmas and Happy 2007 from Evelyn and the crew at the Guide Shop. We hope it was a great Christmas for you all and we are looking forward to a great 2007.
While we had a few days in November the Clearwater River being blown from a major storm system, the positive side it that it helped lots of B-run steelhead find their way home.
Boat anglers are having success with roe, live sand shrimp, dyed sand shrimp and pulling plugs. Hot Shots and Brad’s Plugs are popular with Blue Pirate seeming to be the best color. Bank anglers are using bobbers and jigs. Those with white heads and black bodies or cerise (dark pink) with hot pink heads are popular right now.
Steelhead Lasagna
Fillet the steelhead and then cut in cubes. In a large bowl, season with pepper and lemon juice. Set aside.
Melt butter in a large saucepan. Add leeks and cook stirring for 7-9 minutes. Add flour, cook stirring for another minute. Gradually stir in milk to make thick and creamy. Blend in honey and Mozzarella cheese. Cook 3 more minutes. Remove from heat and mix in steelhead and shrimp.
Put alternate layers of lasagna and fish sauce in an oven proof pan, with top layer being fish sauce. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
Bake 30 minutes at 350 degrees F.
July/August 2006 Eletter
Welcome to the July/August 2006 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. This month’s newsletter is focused on fly fishing on the Clearwater River.
Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: Leave a slack line and don't set the hook while fly fishing.
July-August 2006 Eletter:
Boating Tip: When getting out the boat to fly fish, be careful of where you wade. The Clearwater River depths are extremely varied, even in short distances.
The steelhead are coming. Numbers are really booming the last week or so. Once the thermal block between John Day and Bonneville clears, it will be fast and furious. Anglers are catching steelhead downriver now.
Fish down and across with the grease line technique. Let it bag at the end of the swing. Use a skating fly with a wet fly about four feet down the line. With the high water right now, use bigger flies, 3s and 2s. Don’t set the hook. Duller color flies are best for clear water. Clear water makes them look much brighter. Look at the local fly patterns. They work to a higher success than those brought in from somewhere else.
Use side pressure and let the fish pull the line. Work the seams and the ripples. Morning and evening fishing are better because there is no direct sunlight. Be patient and don't get disgusted.
With Catch and Release, we recommend a 7-8 weight rod. To best care for the steelhead between catch and release, turn them upside down when you get them to the bank. Then they won't fight while you take out the fly. Tail them on the water. Don't take them out of the river.
Use chains or studs on your footwear for traction on the slippery rocks. A staff is also recommended. We also recommend wearing an inflatable personal flotation device.
Everyone needs to be cooperative and courteous because there will be a lot of people on the river. Be careful. Have fun. Be courteous.
Bass with Mushrooms
Line broiler with foil and place fish on top. Sprinkle with lemon juice and sprinkle with celery salt and pepper. Place under preheated moderate broiler. Cook for 7-8 minutes without turning until just cooked. Keep warm.
Meanwhile, melt the butter in a non-stick skillet. Add mushrooms and sauté for 4-5 minutes over low heat until cooked thoroughly.
Gently heat tomatoes in small saucepan. Spoon juices from mushrooms over the tomatoes. Garnish with basil leaves. And serve with mixed salad.
May/June 2006 Eletter
Welcome to the May/June 2006 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. This month's newsletter is focused on fishing at Dworshak Reservoir, particularly for kokanee and bass.
Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: Keep your bait cold and then keep the fish you catch on ice so they don't get mushy.
Boating Tip: When you are on Dworshak Reservoir, make sure your gas tank is full and know how far you can go without running out. You don’t want to get stuck out there with no gas. Also, with these hot days, take plenty of beverages to drink.
May/June Newsletter:
Anglers have been picking up small mouth bass on Dworshak Reservoir. Worms and crank baits are working well. Fish off the points and coves, but be careful of debris.
Dworshak kokanee salmon are small this year, between six and seven inches, because there are so many. Estimates are between 4 and 4.2 million, so there are lots to catch to reach your limit of 25. They like pink or white maggots.
A few trout are being caught with worms or Powerbait.
Clearwater Country's weather has been gorgeous for outdoor activities. Get out and spend some time on the reservoir. Mini camps are available all around the shoreline and the water is just below full. Dworshak also has such amenities are swimming and recreation docks, floating restrooms and sewage dump stations. Gas is available at Big Eddy Marina, check the hours.
Bacon Wrapped Kokanee
Grease cookie sheet with butter. Put apple slices in cavities of each kokanee. Mix lemon juice, olive oil and basil. Then put ¼ teaspoon in each fish cavity, wrap with bacon and season with lemon pepper and salt. Bake 20 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit, turning after 10 minutes. Serve on a bed of noodles.
March/April 2006 Eletter
Welcome to the March/April 2006 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. This month's newsletter is focused on fishing at Dworshak Reservoir, particularly for kokanee and bass.
Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: When fishing Dworshak for kokanee, troll the outer edges. Go out three to four colors which is 30-40 feet.
Boating Tip: Make sure your bilge pump works. Spring weather is unpredictable and you may have to deal with water from storms. If a storm hits and you are too far from docks at Dworshak, hunker down in a cove and wait it out.
March/April Newsletter:
Maggots and white shoe peg corn are a good bet for kokanee. Bass anglers do well with live worms and spinners.
The bass are in the coves and off the points. Kokanee are out toward the middle or by the banks. Don't get too near the points, go around them. Some are shallow and unpredictable.
Be sure when you head out for time on beautiful Dworshak Reservoir, whether it is for fishing, sightseeing or water sports, to let someone know where you will be going and when you expect to be back. Then, if there is a problem, searchers have a better idea where to start. Clearwater Waterways Committee and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers have installed new docks and tables over the last year. Enjoy them. If you don't catch and release; hook and cook with the recipe below:
Broiled Dworshak Kokanee Parmesan
Preheat oven broiler. Grease broiler pan or line with aluminum foil.
In a small bowl, mix together first four ingredients. Fold in next four. Mix well and set aside.
Arrange fish in single layer on prepared pan. Broil a few inches from the heat for three to four minutes. Flip fish over and broil about three more minutes. Remove fish from oven. Cover with Parmesan cheese mixture on top side. Broil for a couple more minutes or until topping is brown and fish flakes easily with a fork.
Be careful not to overcook fish.
February 2006 Eletter
Welcome to the February 2006 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. This month’s newsletter is focused on fishing the Clearwater River for steelhead, especially in the cold months.
Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: In the cold weather, dress in layers with rain gear on top in case it gets wet.
Boating Tip: Always check your life vests before leaving the dock. With the icy weather, they may have frozen to the bottom of the boat. Make sure the sizes are correct for everyone and people know how to put them on.
February Newsletter: Anglers usually have heaters on board and heavy clothing during this cold weather. Be sure you don’t get too close to the heater and catch on fire. That is especially important in the excitement of fighting a Clearwater steelhead. It is best to turn the heater off when you a fish on your line. It is also a good idea to carry a bucket in your boat at all times. It has many uses besides putting out fires.
Rods also need to be kept away from heaters or you could melt your line and lose your fish. When you are not using the heater, turn the valve off at the tank for safety.
Skillet Fried Steelhead Filet
Mix the above ingredients and sprinkle on two Clearwater River steelhead filets or four Snake River steelhead filets.
Mix together:
Dip seasoned filets in egg mixture and press in two cups of crushed cracker crumbs covering filets completely. Preheat skillet and add one cup vegetable oil. Fry fish until golden brown.
January 2006 Eletter
Welcome to the January 2006 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. This month's newsletter is focused on more tips for fishing the Clearwater River for steelhead, especially in the cold months.
Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: Keep your hooks sharp. A file is recommended for every tackle box.
Boating Tip: With the water rising, know where to anchor. Always have enough life vests for all the people in the boat. If you have a power boat, you must have a fire extinguisher.
January Newsletter: Even though the water is off-color, not totally clear, fishing is better. Steelhead green is a good color. When the streams are running muddy chocolate, fish the seams in the main steam.
Eggs are working really well, though some anglers are using shrimp and plugs. This is the season that steelhead spawn, so this time of year, their appetite is for eggs.
Remember, no motors above the Orofino Bridge across the Clearwater River.
Stuffed Steelhead in Foil
Filet an average 15+ pound Clearwater steelhead out. Salt and pepper the meat side.
Spread over top:
Wrap in foil and bake 20-25 minutes in a 350 degree oven or put on the barbecue grill. Check for flakiness to see if it is done.
October/November/December 2005 Eletter
Welcome to the October/November/December 2005 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. This month’s newsletter is focused on fishing the Clearwater River for steelhead, especially in the cold months.
Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: Don’t run aground. As the temperature drops, the water also drops. Know your path on the Clearwater River. Accidents do happen.
Boating Tip: Soak your anchor rope and lead rope in RV antifreeze (environment friendly) to keep them from freezing and stiffening up.
October/November/December Newsletter: When fishing the big deep holes and tail outs, make sure your bait is near the bottom. When drifting eggs, know your current and depth to account for how much weight you use.
When fishing in cold temperatures, as in December and January, remember the fish are lethargic and don't bite very hard. Pay attention! Don't be lethargic and miss the fish.
Plugs have been doing very well. Some people use jet divers to get their smaller plugs down. Divers are also good with bait and a long leader.
If you have take photos while out with the Guide Shop, please send us copies so we can update our bulletin board.
Remember, gift certificates are available at the Guide Shop.
Fish Marinade
Marinade fish chunks. Grill on the barbecue.
August/September 2005 Eletter Welcome to the August/September 2005 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. This month's newsletter is focused on fly fishing the Clearwater River for steelhead. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides. Guides' Tips: When fly fishing, use a wade staff and felt cleats on your boots for safety. The rocks are slick. Boating Tip: Some areas on the Clearwater River are best reached by boat because it is very rocky and there are lots of holes. Keep unnecessary items stored while you are fly fishing so you don’t hang up on them. Always wear a hat and glasses while fly fishing. August/September Newsletter: When you are fly fishing, wading beyond your hips restricts your cast. Being in to your knees is sufficient. Fish the dangle. Green butted skunks are good in the morning. Purple Perils and black and purple patterns are good for the evening. Floating line is recommended this time of year. Come fish with us! It is going to be a good year with returns above the 10 year average. The spey clave clinic last weekend in Lenore was a success. About 150 people participated and there were about 30 distributors and demonstrators. Watch next year for the date and make time to come. A special thanks to Mike and Linda Cummings of the Red Shed Fly Shop, Peck, for all their work in putting together the event.
Spinach Salad
Note: This recipe is good for Catch and Release season, especially since fly fishermen are not prone to keep their fish.
July 2005 Eletter
Welcome to the July 2005 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: With the hot weather be sure to keep your bait on ice. Also, wear hats, sunglasses and lots of sunscreen.
Boating Tip: The first thing to do when you board a boat is to have everyone put on their life vests and size them. If you don’t wear them, make sure they are readily at accessible, never in a locked compartment.
July Newsletter: To catch kokanee, you must go deep this time of year because the surface water is warmer. You will need to go 100-150 feet down.
Coves with running water produce more and bigger bass. This species of fish likes to hang off the points. Rubber grubs and worms are working best. Bouncing poplars off the top has also been successful. Due to the hot, hot weather, always keep the bait on ice and make that the fish you catch are cleaned and put on ice immediately. Otherwise, they will get soft fast.
The level of Dworshak Reservoir is dropping rapidly. Make sure you boat around the points. Some come out a ways and are barely under water.
Anglers fishing for rainbow trout have been pretty successful with live bait and Powerbait. Regular and dyed corn are also good for trout and kokanee.
Barbecued Bass Fillets
Place fillets in single layer in a disposable aluminum pan. Cover fillets with onion slices. Then generously sprinkle lemon juice over fillets and onions. Season with salt, pepper and paprika to taste. Place pan on grill. Cook over hot coals for about five minutes per side or until fish flakes easily.
June 2005 Eletter
Welcome to the June 2005 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: Make sure your equipment and tackle (rods, reels, etc.) are secured to the boat.
Boating Tip: Make sure you have plenty of fuel on board since Dworshak is very long and there is no place to purchase it except at Big Eddy Marina near the dam.
June Newsletter: June and July are great months to recreate on Dworshak Reservoir. The lake is full and there is easy access to all the mini camps around the shore.
Before going out on the lake, be sure to leave an itinerary with someone. There are cards at the ramps that can be filled out with the boat identification, trip plans and etc. for those who did not leave a plan with someone before coming to the reservoir.
Remember to take live bait and a cooler with ice for your catch. Kokanee prefer maggots. They are averaging 9-14 inches, though there are plenty of smaller ones for next year. Bass like worms and Kalin grubs. They are running 10-14 inches long and must be 12 inches to keep. Trout on the lake like worms and Powerbait.
With the gorgeous sunny weather, you will need to remember sunscreen. Each of the over 100 mini camps around the reservoir have tables, fireplaces and an outhouse. Out on the reservoir there are floating docks, toilets and swimming areas.
Be prepared and have a camera handy to take pictures of the numerous wildlife like eagles, osprey, deer, bear and turkeys.
The debris is pretty well clear, but you need to be careful while boating.
Canned Dworshak Kokanee
Remove all the scales, heads and tails from the kokanee. Pack into pint jars and add 1/4 teaspoon salt to each jar. Process 1 hour and 40 minutes (100 minutes) at 10 pounds per pressure in a steam pressure canner.
Options:
April/May 2005 Eletter Welcome to the April/May 2005 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides. Guides’ Tips: Pre-tie all of your terminal tackle before going out, so you can pay more attention to running your boat and being courteous to other anglers. Boating Tip: Because of cooler temperatures on the water, be careful of sunburn. Take plenty of sunscreen and lip protection. April/May News: The Chinook Salmon are slower coming up this year, but they are coming. Once they start their migration, it will be fast and furious. Get ready to set that hook. Remember the limit this year is starting at one per day, three in possession and 10 for the season on the Clearwater River. If more fish come up the river than expected, the limit may be increased. The season is expected to go until the end of July, but watch for updates.
Salmon with Portabella Mushroom Sauce
Melt 1/4 cup butter and brush on salmon. Broil fish until it flakes apart. Combine sliced mushrooms and remainder of the butter in a saucepan and cook for six minutes or until tender. Stir in remaining ingredients and bring to a boil. Pour over salmon filets and serve. Serves 6-8.
March 2005 Eletter
Welcome to the March 2005 edition of The Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides’ Tips: Use a long handled net for kokanee. Be slow and steady when reeling in kokanee.
Boating Tip: When a storm begins on Dworshak Reservoir, head for the nearest cove and wait it out rather than trying to get back to the dock.
March News: When fishing for kokanee, attach the leader to the lead core line by using a nail knot or needle knot.
The color of flashers is very important. Coppers or brasses are best for overcast dark days. Silver is best when it is sunny and bright. After the flashers, use a rubber snubber and make sure the elastic is good. Attach your hook set up--wedding ring, rooster tail or double whammies.
Always use fresh bait such as maggots or corn. Both maggots and corn can be dyed. Dye is available to do the corn.
To troll, boats need to be maneuvered in an "S" pattern.
Anglers can get line counter reels and monofilament. If you use this set up, you must have weights to get fishing accessories deep. Put your weight first, then flashers, snubber and hook set up.
Watch for our June newsletter for tips on operating a boat on Dworshak. April's newsletter will be about Chinook Salmon on the Clearwater River.
RB Kokanee
Lay out large piece of foil, spray with cooking oil. Lay fish on it. Put butter on top in pats. Squeeze on fresh lemon. Mince garlic and put half on top of fish. Slice onion and put on top. Cut remaining lemon and put on top. Crumble blue cheese on top. Wrap fish in foil and barbecue for 30 minutes or until fish is flaky. Open foil and place mozzarella on top. Salt to taste and put rest of garlic on top.
January/February 2005 Eletter
Welcome to the January/February 2005 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides. We have had a busy couple of months so our newsletter is a bit later. We hope you enjoy it.
Guides' Tips: The water in the Clearwater River is dropping. Pay attention to the rocks.
Boating Tip: Make sure your anchor rope is long enough to be safe.
January/February News: The Clearwater is very clear right now. It should remain that way through the end of March because it is milking out slowly instead of the usual high run off this time of year.
Fresh fish are still coming into the area. Steelhead are being caught at Gibbs Eddy and Spalding, though they are all through the river.
It is best to use more natural colors and smaller sharp hooks.
Steelhead with Rice Stir Fry
Prepare 1 cup rice before hand
Mix the following in a large wok or skillet
Stir fry on medium high heat until fish begins to brown and vegetables soften. Add the rice, 3 Tbs. Teriyaki sauce and 2 Tbs. white wine. Continue to stir fry until all the ingredients are mixed well and rice is browned.
November/December 2004 Eletter
from the crew at the Guide Shop.
Thank you for your business over the year. Hope we were helpful to you this year.
Have a Great New Year!
Welcome to the November/December 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides' Tips: In heavier water use larger slinkies/weights when drifting eggs. Also, use more scent since debris and high water wash it away faster.
/When the eyes of your fishing rod ice up, you can chip each one or use petroleum jelly before you go or while out.
Boating Tip: With an earlier sunset and later sunrise, make sure your lights are all working.
November/December News: Due to the variable weather typical of Idaho winters, anglers may experience many types of weather conditions.
It is wise to dress in multiple layers with the top one being rain gear. Wear breathable fabrics such as cottons and wools. Also, wear long underwear. Always keep your hands, neck and head covered and wear appropriate footwear. Extra gloves and socks are a good idea. You need to bring something waterproof to put extra clothes in until they are needed. Some people take off some layers mid day when it is warm and need to put them back on later in the afternoon. It is best if they have been kept in something dry.
If you are in a boat all day you also need to check your circulation periodically. Commercial hand warmers can also be helpful.
Though our boats are heated, the weather can be very cold.
1. Grate zest of lemon and cut in half. Juice half of lemon to get 2 tsp. of fresh juice and set remaining half aside.
2. Combine the lemon zest, lemon juice, yogurt, dill and ½ tsp salt in small bowl.
3. Squeeze the reserved lemon half over the steelhead and sprinkle with remaining salt and pepper. Spray a large non-stick skillet with canola oil non-stick spray and put over medium heat. Add the steelhead and cook until just opaque in the center, about 4 minutes on each side. For steaks, remove the skin before eating.
Serve with sauce. Makes about 5 servings.
October 2004 Eletter Welcome to the October 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides’ Tips: With the cooler water temperatures, fly anglers should use sink tips with purple or black leaches. Bait anglers need to dive or sink their bait to the bottom.
Boating Tip: Be aware of where you anchor. With the low water, the slots for moving up and down the Clearwater River are narrow.
October News: Due to the number and aggressive nature of the Fall Chinook Salmon in the Clearwater River this fall, the steelhead are having a tendency to be chased from their normal resting places. You may need to look in other places.
When fishing for steelhead, if you accidentally catch a salmon, you must release it immediately. Be sure you know the difference between the two species. Chinook have broken spots of varied shapes and no spots below the lateral line. Steelhead have more defined spots and they extend below the lateral line and even onto the tail. Salmon also have black gums and indented tails. Steelhead have straight tails.
Only barbless hooks may be used on the Clearwater River during steelhead season, no matter what species you are trying to catch.
Just a note: Peck ramp will be closed from Nov. 1-5.
Be courteous to other anglers. Fishing is a sport. Make it a fun sport and keep a tight line until next time.
Tarragon Butter
Mix vinegar, wine and butter over medium heat until combined. Then add tarragon, salt and pepper.
Meanwhile, brush fish with olive oil and put on the grill. Cook 12-14 minutes, turning once or twice. (Do not overcook) Serve steelhead with Tarragon Butter on side or over top.
Serves about 9.
September 2004 Eletter Welcome to the September 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides’ Tips: Check your knots and hooks regularly.
September News: More and more spey rods have been appearing. They are better used on banks than from boats because 14-foot rods are hard to use from a boat.
Here is one way to tie a two fly set up. Buy a 9-foot tapered leader with a 12-pound tippet. Cut off about 10 inches of the tippet. This leaves about an 18-pound tippet. Now make a triple surgeon knot with about a yard of fluorocarbon tippet. Guides always get nervous with less than about 3 ½ feet of tippet. The 18-pound tag with the upper fly is 5-7 inches. This will enable you to double your chances. The arrangement is called a box car or hang down. The best fly colors are purple or black.
We suggest you use freshly purchased or tied flies. Also, fly fishing from a boat is better than wading the further you go up the Clearwater River due to the rocky terrain.
Combine marinade ingredients in a glass bowl. Cube the steelhead and stem the sugar peas and add to marinade. Combine tomatoes, onion slices and marinade for 30 minutes or more. Pour steelhead mixture into a wok and over sink partially drain liquid. Place wok over hot coals and stir grilled fish and vegetables with large wooden spoon 6-8 minutes. Move wok to indirect heat side of grill and close lid. Cook another 4-5 minutes. Serve with rice.
Serves 4-6.
August 2004 Eletter Welcome to the August 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides’ Tip: Don’t pull on the fish when they are jumping. Give them some slack. Otherwise, the line may jerk out or break.
August News: This month we will be talking about fly fishing for steelhead on the Clearwater River. It is best to use a 7-8 weight fly rod, floating line and type 3 sink tips or mini heads.
Floating lines with flies such as Green Butted Skunks, Purple Perils, Lamplighters and October Caddis are best for morning and evening fishing. During the afternoon, in direct sunlight, we suggest using sink tip lines with articulated leaches and muddler patterns.
We recommend fishing from a boat with a down and across pattern, which ever flies you are using. The best place to fish is at the seamline where two currents converge or in the riffles behind rocks. Let them hang on the dangle. Once a steelhead breaks on the fly, wait until he is pulling to set the hook.
Brush steelhead with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
To prepare basting sauce, sauté onion in butter. Add wine and simmer briefly. Remove from heat.
Arrange fillets on a greased grill topper and place on grill over hot coals. Grill approximately 4-5 minutes on each side, brushing with basting sauce while cooking.
Serves 6.
July 2004 Eletter Welcome to the July 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides’ Tip: While boating, skiing or fishing on Dworshak Reservoir be careful to look out for floating logs and stumps.
July News: Recreation opportunities on Dworshak Reservoir are wide open this time of year. The water is just the right temperature for swimming, especially with the thermometer pushing 100 degrees.
Or maybe you would like to try water skiing or intertubing behind a boat. With 52-miles of lake, there is lots of space and ever changing scenery.
Perhaps a nature hike along the quiet shore is more your style and the berries are getting ripe. Take along a picnic or extend your stay and sleep overnight in one of the many mini camps around the reservoir. The camps are accessible from the reservoir and have tables, a fire ring and sanitary facilities. There are also improved camps at Dent Acres and Freeman Creek where you can pull in a trailer or if you like set up a tent.
All over the reservoir there are opportunities for nature and wildlife photography. And there is always the quiet.
Let us show you some of the many options to kick back, relax and enjoy yourself on Dworshak this summer.
Check out the slideshow by going to our homepage, down to the links and clicking on Dworshak Summer Slideshow or clicking here if you are online now.
Just a note: Kokanee is being caught mostly up the reservoir around Dent Bridge. Bass are still biting in the coves.
Put above ingredients in food processor.
Mix these two ingredients with those from food processor. Serve with chips.
June 2004 Eletter Guides’ Tip: If you are not catching kokanee, move around and look for them. They are not all in one spot.
June News: With the closure of Chinook Salmon season June 20, we are focusing on fishing and excursions on Dworshak Reservoir. Kokanee Salmon fishing is great on the reservoir and the lake is full, so the area is beautiful.
When fishing for kokanee, the best methods are flashers with snubbers and wedding ring spinners with maggots. We recommend using tri-color, leaded line and going down about 30 feet or three colors. Angling from boats is the usual way kokanee are caught and they can be caught all day. The fish are pretty much all through the reservoir, but you may need to move around to find just the right spot.
There are not as many kokanee, but they are bigger this year (12-14 inches). The limit is 25 kokanee per day per person. Anglers are also catching bass and trout on the reservoir.
Check out the slideshow by going to our homepage, down to the links and clicking on Dworshak Summer Slideshow or clicking here if you are online now.
Catch and Release steelhead season opened July 1 which is earlier than usual.
Welcome to the June 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
In a large skillet, combine the water, pickle juice, salt, pepper and seasoned salt. Add salmon and bring to a boil. Reduce heat. Cover and simmer for 12-16 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.
Meanwhile, in a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, relish, pickle juice and salad dressing. Serve over salmon. Garnish with sliced lemon.
May 2004 Eletter Welcome to the May 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides’ Tip: Pre-wrap your Kwikfish with sardines the night before and soak in Graybills Salmon scent.
May News: The Pink House Campground will be closed June 1st through June 3rd for resurfacing. You will need alternate plans to launch boats (i.e. Ahsahka or Lenore ramps).
The Clearwater River is in great shape. You can fish just about any method that you prefer, except for drift boats. Bobbers and jigs are a great way to fish the North Fork. Just tip your jig with a little piece of shrimp and you are fishing.
The main river has been very productive with Kwikfish wrapped with sardines. You can also use weight and eggs to back bounce. You can get it right in front of the fish and they will bite.
The river is really moving, so know where all of the anglers are around you. BE SAFE and have your life vests on or close by.
In a large sauce pan, sauté onions, peppers and celery in butter until tender. Stir in the flour, salt, pepper and dill until blended. Gradually add milk. Bring to a boil: cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add the cauliflower, salmon and peas. Heat through. Stir in the cheeses until melted. Serve hot. Makes 8 servings.
April 2004 Eletter Welcome to the April 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides’ Tip: Take an extra cooler with ice to keep your bait cold. It spoils fast in hot weather.
April Tips: When fishing in high water for Chinook Salmon, use heavier rods, stronger lines and leaders. These fish are very aggressive and have sharp teeth. Also use bigger hooks, baits, and divers. Your weight should be heavy enough to get the bait down to the fish. Don’t give the fish any slack, because the barbless hooks give them a good chance to get away. You know the big ones always get away!!!
It is going to be a huge run so be prepared for good action. Check our links page on the website to see the latest fish numbers over the dams.
In a Wok, cook the fish and seafood in oil until flakes easily with fork. Remove cooked seafood and fish from pan and set aside. Add Asparagus, Celery, Onions and Mushrooms to wok. Stir Fry 3 minutes or until crisp. Add Water Chestnuts and Chicken broth. Cook to boiling. Combine cornstarch with soy sauce in a glass measuring cup and add to hot mixture stirring constantly. Continue cooking for 3 minutes until mixture is thick. Toss in cooked seafood and fish to heat through. Serve over hot rice.
Makes approximately 8 (1½ cups each) servings. Approximately 120 calories per serving.
March 2004 Eletter Welcome to the March 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides’ Tip: Anglers get your gear and rigs ready for a great, busy fall Chinook salmon season.
March Tips: When fishing in low visibility water (muddy) use bigger baits and lures. For instance, go from Wiggle Warts to Mag Warts or upsize your Kwik Fish to 13 or 14. Use darker colors and solids on lures. Use baits such as eggs and sand shrimp along with attractors such as spinner blades.
Fishing closer to the boat or near the bank can also help. Some anglers have good luck at the confluence of the North Fork and the main stem of the Clearwater River because the flows in the North Fork are always clear coming from Dworshak Dam.
We are looking at the second biggest Salmon run since 1939. The river will be a lot higher so you will need bigger weights to get your bait down to where the fish are.
Blend above ingredients in blender or food processor until smooth. Add 2 ½ pints of smoked salmon 4 chopped green onions Mix until Smooth
Serve with crackers or chips
February 2004 Eletter Welcome to the February 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Guides’ Tip: In cold weather like we have been having lately, lubricate the eyes on your rod with petroleum jelly. That prevents ice from forming on the eyes and hanging up your line.
February Tips: As promised, this month we are discussing the differences between fishing from drift and jet boats.
In steelhead season drift boats are allowed above the Orofino Bridge and jet boats are not. However, drift boats only travel 5-10 miles of the river in a fishing outing and go down. Jet boats can go 20-30 miles up or down the river.
Drift boats carry 2-3 people and are quieter. Jet boats are louder, faster and colder. They can carry 4+ people. Drift boats are better in low water. Higher water is necessary for jet boats.
Anglers in both types of boats use similar fishing methods and both are excellent ways to go after steelhead. It is a matter of the angler’s preference. We suggest that you try both methods to find out which they prefer.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Combine egg whites, seasonings and milk. Whip in mixing bowl for 2 minutes. Meanwhile, crush cornflakes in plastic bag. Dip fish in milk/egg mixture and shake in cornflakes. Place on baking sheet and bake 15-20 minutes or until flakey.
Makes 8 – 4 oz. servings with about 215 calories per serving.
January 2004 Eletter Guides’ Tip: If your bait is not working. Change it.
January Tips:
In cold weather, fish are on the bottom and lethargic, so you must get the bait down to them. The best way is to use Luhr Jensen jet divers or Brad’s diver.
Put your jet diver on a steel leader slide so when you are fighting a fish the diver slides and you are not fighting the diver too. The leader to your bait hook should be about five feet long. For best presentation, use eggs or sand shrimp. When back trolling this method, go slowly.
Bobbers and jigs are still the best method from the bank.
Welcome to the January 2004 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Sprinkle filets with pepper and garlic salt. Place in well greased pan. Grill at 325 degrees for 10 minutes per inch of thickness, turning once, until fish is flaky. Serve with salsa and lemon slices.
December 2003 Eletter Welcome to the December 2003 edition of the Guide Shop & Clearwater Drifters eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
Christmas Special: We are having a special discount for those reserving dates from Dec. 15-30. Instead of the regular $175 per day per person, we will give you corporate rates of $150 per person per day. Contact us soon to set up your date.
Guides’ Tip: Steelhead are lethargic this time of year due to the cold water. This makes their bites soft, just nibbles. Always believe it is the “big one” and keep your line tight all the time. More than likely it is the “big one”.
December Tips:
With the cold weather and frequent precipitation this time of year, anglers need to dress right to enjoy a day of steelhead fishing on the Clearwater River.
It is best to dress in many layers. Stephanie says the more like the “Michelin Man” they look the better. Our boats are heated, but it gets chilly out on the water in the winter weather. Cotton is good, but if it gets wet then it is cold. Wool and breathable fabrics are best, especially with a layer of polypropylene on the outside. Insulated coveralls are also good.
You also need to be sure you protect your ears, hands, head, neck and feet. Stocking caps are good for your head with maybe a “neck gator” for that area. Warm, thick gloves are good for your hands. It is wise to bring a second pair of gloves in the event the first one gets wet.
Always include rain gear, just in case there is precipitation.
Steelhead aren’t the only ones attracted to shrimp as “bait”. This recipe will please people at your table for those special holiday gatherings.
Heat oil in large non-stick skillet. Add onion and pepper. Stir in remaining ingredients, except shrimp. Bring to simmer and cook 2 minutes. Add shrimp and stir often as it cooks another 2 minutes or until shrimp is done.
Serve with lemon wedges and rice.
October/November 2003 Eletter Welcome to the October/November 2003 edition of the Guide Shop eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
A quick note: Our hours have changed. We are now open from 5:30-8:30 a.m. and 2-8 p.m. seven days a week. Other times are available by appointment.
Guides’ Tip: When fishing with a tough line, let the fish eat it. Do not set the hook or you’ll lose the fish every time.
October/November Tips:
Marinate filets in white wine one hour. Meanwhile, mix sour cream, cream cheese, lemon pepper and seasoned salt. Remove filets from wine and pat dry. Coat filets with sour cream mixture and sprinkle bread crumbs on top. Put under broiler until bread crumbs brown. Lay lemons on top and bake at 350 degrees until fish is flaky.
September 2003 Eletter Welcome to the September 2003 edition of the Guide Shop eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips & recipes from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
A quick bit of good news to start: Since the weather cooled down Sept. 11, over 2,000 steelhead per day are coming over Lower Granite Dam. It looks like a great season on the Clearwater River.
September’s Tips:
Fly fishing is best when the water is lower than later in the season. At this point the water is low and clear. Anglers can find success from a boat, the bank or wading. The majority of fly fishing is done with floating lines subsurface flies. Some of the favorite steelhead fly patterns are:
The best fly rods for A-Run steelhead which arrive early in the season are 6 & 7. For the larger B-Run steelhead 8 & 9 rods are best. The rod dictates the size of line that should be used. The best methods are down and across and grease line. The steelhead caught early in the season are primarily A-Run and weigh between 4-8 pounds. The larger B-Run steelhead begin arriving in September and October.
We’ve started a new feature for out eLetter with steelhead recipes that make your mouth water just reading them. Our first is below.
This is the perfect seasoning for steelhead or trout. Serve with pasta as an accompaniment to share the marvelous sauce.
In a small frying pan, melt 3 tablespoons of butter over medium-low heat. Add garlic, stirring occasionally; cook until garlic just begins to soften (about 3 minutes). Stir in 2 tablespoons of white wine and remove from heat and keep warm. Rinse fish and pat dry. Season with Johnny’s salt and lemon pepper to taste. In a shallow bowl, lightly beat egg and water until frothy. In a small sauté pan heat 1 tablespoon each of butter and olive oil over medium heat
Dip each fillet in egg mixture to coat; drain briefly. Arrange in pan; do not crowd. Cook, turning once, until fish flakes when prodded in thickest part with fork. Lift out and place on a warm platter. Keep warm. Repeat until fish is cooked, adding more butter and oil as needed.
Pour garlic sauce over fish and garnish with lemon.
Makes 3 to 4 servings.
This recipe comes from Jo Moore of Country Catering and High Country Inn in Ahsahka, a small town near Orofino. This is one of her favorite ways to cook steelhead or salmon for special occasions. Check our new recipe page for a picture of this dish.
Special Salmon Fishing Eletter 6-28-03 A short note with some great Chinook Salmon fishing news!
Chinook Salmon fishing on the Clearwater River from the Orofino Bridge to the railroad trestle at Lewiston, including the North Fork of the Clearwater, has been reopened as of Saturday, June 28, 2003.
Earlier in the week, Idaho Department of Fish and Game reopened the season on the Clearwater above Kamiah. Watch the fish report on our web site http://www.theguideshop.com for further changes in the season.
Chinook Salmon limits are two per day, six in possession and 20 for the season. All other existing regulations for the 2003 season apply. See the printed regulations.
Contact us for reservations by sending an email to guideshop@hotmail.com or calling 208-476-3531. For more information to view our Chinook Salmon slideshow, visit our site at http://www.theguideshop.com.
Special Salmon Fishing Eletter 6-24-03 We got some great news Monday & thought we would share it!
Idaho Department of Fish and Game has announced that the Chinook Salmon sport season on the upper part of the Clearwater River is reopened. The main stem and Middle Fork of the Clearwater from the Kamiah Bridge upstream to a posted boundary about 1/2 mile above Clear Creek will be open for fishing until August 3. Call us to set reservations to take a guided fishing trip on the upper river.
Salmon fishing on the Clearwater below the Kamiah Bridge is still closed. It may be opened later. Watch the fish report on our web site http://www.theguideshop.com for further changes in the season.
The Lochsa is open from the mouth to Twin Bridges immediately upstream from the confluence with Crooked Fork and Colt Killed Creek (White Sand). Anglers on the Lochsa may only use artificial flies and lures with one barbless hook per lure. No bait is allowed. The South Fork of the Clearwater is open from the mouth upstream to the confluence of Red and American rivers.
Chinook Salmon limits are two per day, six in possession and 20 for the season. All other existing regulations for the 2003 season apply. See the printed regulations.
June 2003 Tips Eletter Welcome to the first edition of the Guide Shop eLetter and tips on fishing. Thank you for your interest in tips from Evelyn, Stephanie and the guides.
A quick bit of good news to start: Chinook Salmon season is off to a great start. The fish counts coming over Bonneville and Lower Granite are even better than expected earlier in the season. The fish are larger than usual because they have spent two to three years in the Pacific Ocean. The first 35 pounder was caught Monday.
June's Tip:
Success fishing for steelhead and Chinook Salmon takes special know how. Using a guide service gives you the advantage of their experience with:
Guides have the background and current knowledge needed to ensure that you have the best fishing experience. They take care of the baits, gear and even a lunch. They also take care of the boat and all the things that go with it. That way all you need to worry about is appropriate clothing and a camera to take pictures of the “Big Ones” you catch.