Lochsa Camping

[O clarkii lewisi]

Am planning an Idaho trip in mid September. Part of it will include camping along the Lochsa. I have not driven through that spectacular area in a long time. I have scoped out the maps and understand that there are a few forest service campgrounds along the river. Anyone have any specific advice for camp grounds? Just trying to gauge if I need to worry about reserving etc, or if that time of year will be able to secure spots for my 18 foot trailer. I will try to travel that area on weekdays, hopefully encountering a few less people. Also, if anyone has specific fishing advice, I welcome it. Not trying to get hot spots, but general info is welcome and if you prefer please PM me. I have fished a lot in N Idaho and know all about cutties, but have never fished the Lochsa ('bout time!). I am assuming that there are Bull trout in there, but not sure. Thanks in advance for any info.

 

[Pink Squirrel]

This is one of my favorite rivers with lots of dumb, but not overly large, cutthroats. As you know route 12 runs right along the river. This provides great access but does detract a bit from the wilderness flavor. The largest federal campground is Wilderness Gateway and they would have sites to accommodate your trailer. The river above the campground is all catch and release and that is where I usually fish. You will have no problem finding places to fish as there are pretty well developed pull offs at most favorite spots. By September the area should have quieted down so campsites and fishing spots should be easily available. The only issue you will likely have is that the bank is heavily riprapped with large rocks so a lot of climbing and scrambling might be needed. Those west slope cutts love dry flies and it would be a shame to fish them on anything else. An orange stimulator is my favorite. There are some big bull trout in the river. I have only ever encountered them when they come up off the bottom to take a cutthroat off my line. They are of course protected and I assume illegal to target.

If you have time you can also try the Selway river. There is a road that runs along the Selway up as far as the falls (about 20 miles) and then a well developed trail that follows the river several miles more. Generally the Selway is easier to access and fish (fewer steep banks) but I have not found fishing as good. Do remember this is rattlesnake country so be aware. My favorite breakfast place is Ryan’s Wilderness inn and cafe in Kooskia. Do be aware there are no services for about 70 miles along the river so stock up accordingly - no phone signals either. Have fun - it is beautiful country.