Anglers across Southeast Idaho have plenty of reason to dust off their fishing gear this month. The Idaho Department of Fish and Game is set to release nearly 10,000 catchable-sized rainbow trout at multiple locations throughout the region during July, offering residents and visitors a strong window for summer fishing activity.
The stocking effort spans several counties and a wide range of elevations, from valley-floor ponds to mountain campgrounds sitting above 6,000 feet. As with all stocking operations, the releases are tentative and subject to change based on current river, lake, and pond conditions as well as prevailing weather.
Where the Fish Are Going
Several well-known Southeast Idaho fishing spots are on the department’s stocking list this month. Pebble Creek and Montpelier Creek are each slated to receive 1,000 rainbow trout, making them two of the larger individual allocations in the region. The Montpelier Rearing Pond, situated at an elevation of 6,500 feet, will receive 500 trout. Anglers interested in the Montpelier Reservoir can access it by traveling approximately half a mile north on Crow Creek Road.
Cub River, located south of Preston near Willow Flat Campground, is scheduled to receive 750 rainbow trout. That campground sits at an elevation of 6,300 feet, making it a scenic high-country destination for families and anglers alike during the summer months.
Two smaller stocking allocations will benefit anglers in Soda Springs and the area near Malad City. Kelly Park Pond (Upper) in Soda Springs is set to receive 250 rainbow trout, while Mill Creek — located approximately 15 miles north of Malad City near Malad Summit Campground — is also scheduled for 250 fish.
For those near Lava Hot Springs, a notable destination lies roughly 16 miles away at Big Springs Campground, which sits at 6,500 feet in elevation and falls within the broader stocking area for the Southeast Region.
A Summer Boost for Local Recreation
The July stocking effort is part of the Department of Fish and Game’s ongoing program to maintain viable fisheries and encourage recreational participation across Idaho. Catchable-sized trout are fish large enough that anglers can legally harvest them, meaning these releases translate directly into fishing opportunities rather than a long-term wait for fish to grow to size.
Southeast Idaho’s varied terrain gives anglers the ability to choose between high-mountain streams and campground ponds depending on their preference and accessibility needs. The mix of elevations — from valley ponds in Soda Springs to campgrounds near 6,500 feet — means the stocking effort reaches a broad cross-section of communities and recreational users throughout the region.
Families planning summer camping trips in the area may find the timing ideal. Several of the stocking locations are adjacent to developed campgrounds, making it easy to combine an overnight stay with a morning or evening fishing session. The Willow Flat and Malad Summit campgrounds, in particular, sit directly adjacent to stocked waters.
Summer fishing activity also supports local economies in small communities throughout Bannock County and neighboring counties, as anglers purchase licenses, bait, and supplies and patronize local businesses. With Independence Day weekend already behind us, July fishing opportunities provide continued momentum for recreational tourism through the rest of the summer season.
Anglers are reminded that all standard Idaho fishing regulations apply, and a valid fishing license is required for those 14 and older. License information and regulation details are available through the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.
What Comes Next
The Department of Fish and Game will monitor water and weather conditions throughout the month before conducting individual releases at each location. Because stocking schedules can shift based on those conditions, anglers are encouraged to check the department’s official website or contact the Southeast Region office directly for the most current stocking schedule before heading out. Additional stocking rounds may also be announced as summer progresses and conditions allow.