VIKTOS released the Limited Edition Operatus Team Shoe called "Triple Canopy Creeper." Designed by U.S. veterans, the shoe features Vietnam-era aesthetics with modern performance technology including a 4mm heel-to-toe drop, hi-grip crystal rubber outsole, and HiRebound EVA insole for enhanced comfort and traction.
The Boone and Crockett Club presented the Water for Wildlife Foundation with its 2026 Conservation and Stewardship Award during the Club's Spring Meeting. The Lander, Wyoming-based organization was honored for its 50-year history of conservation work, having supported projects valued at $2.8 million benefiting multiple wildlife species across 12 western states.
Ducks Unlimited announced its 2026 Wetland Conservation Achievement Award recipients, honoring individuals and organizations advancing wetland and waterfowl conservation across North America. Winners include Representative Glenn "GT" Thompson, Karen Woodrich of USDA-NRCS, Governor Henry McMaster, and the California Rice Commission, among others.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources and Ruffed Grouse Society invite the public to a free guided woodcock walk on April 23 near Gladwin to observe the American woodcock's spectacular mating display. Participants will meet at 7:30 p.m. at the Lame Duck Foot Access Area, a DNR-managed Grouse Enhanced Management Site.
Yamaha U.S. Marine Business Unit promoted Jason Berry to Director of Marine Service, where he will oversee all U.S. service operations including call centers, field service, warranty, and training. Berry, a Yamaha team member since 2005, previously served as Customer Experience Division Manager.
The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources is inviting Hunter Education graduates to participate in the Utah Hunting Skills Challenge on May 15-16 at Cache Valley Public Shooting Range in Logan. The competition features multiple events including marksmanship, archery, wildlife identification, and safety challenges, with registration at $35 per participant.
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), joined by the National Rifle Association, American Suppressor Association, California Rifle & Pistol Association, Second Amendment Law Center, Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, and Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, filed an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to grant certiorari in George Peterson v. United States, challenging the National Firearms Act's registration and taxation requirements for suppressors.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission's Generation Conservation Summit returns to Hot Springs Nov. 4-5 at Bank OZK Arena, featuring conservation challenges, quiz bowls, and competitions for Arkansas students. Entergy Arkansas provided $100,000 in sponsorship through the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation to support the event.
The South Carolina Waterfowl Association announces BirdFest's return May 1–2, 2026, featuring Steep Canyon Rangers, Dan Tyminski Band, Trey Hensley Band, and Dom Flemons & the Traveling Wildfires. Proceeds support SCWA's education and conservation programs including Camp Woodie and Camp Leopold.
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has closed LMU 312 to all hunting of female mountain lions effective one-half hour after sunset on Monday, April 6th, 2026. Detailed quota status is available on the Montana FWP website.
The Vermont Fish and Wildlife Board approved 65 either-sex and 20 antlerless moose hunting permits for 2026 in Wildlife Management Unit E. The science-based harvest aims to reduce moose density and winter tick populations affecting moose health. Permit applications are available on the Vermont Fish and Wildlife Department's website with a June 17 deadline.
By order of the Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission, otter trapping closed in Region 1 at midnight on Saturday, April 4. Hunters can check current quota status on the Montana FWP website.
NSSF has named 2TON as its first official Affinity Partner, providing NSSF members with specialized branding, marketing, and digital development services. 2TON will be listed in the NSSF member portal and collaborate with the association to provide marketing education and resources for firearm industry businesses.
Check-Mate, a U.S.-based manufacturer of magazine systems and firearm components, is expanding its engineering team and seeking a Process Engineer to optimize PLEX ERP systems and manufacturing operations. The role focuses on process optimization, Lean methodologies, and continuous improvement initiatives.
Federal Ammunition has begun shipping its Federal X Henry Collector's Edition ammunition in partnership with Henry Repeating Arms, created for Henry's commemorative 45-70 Government Golden Boy lever-action rifle celebrating America's 250th anniversary. The limited-edition load features a 300-grain Hollow Point bullet and collectible packaging.
The Sportsmen's Alliance Foundation is asking a Washington court to vacate the dismissal of its Public Records Act case against the Department of Fish and Wildlife and sanction the department for failing to disclose an internal memo. The memo, written by WDFW's Criminal Justice Legal Liaison, assessed whether commissioners violated the law in delaying responses to the organization's records request.
Bond Arms donated its America 250th Black Cerakote firearm to Friends of NRA to support fundraising efforts for youth education, firearm safety, and shooting sports preservation. The special edition commemorates the United States' 250th anniversary and will be featured at select Friends of NRA events.
Burris Optics announced its continued partnership with Rocky Mountain Heroes Foundation, supporting veterans and their families through hunting and fishing experiences. Founded by Brian L. "Sol" Soliday, the foundation provides therapeutic outdoor opportunities to help U.S. military veterans and active-duty service members reintegrate into civilian life.
Marilyn Bentz, Executive Director of the National Bowhunter Education Foundation, presented NBEF updates at regional hunter education coordinator meetings in Baton Rouge, Anchorage, and the Northeast. Bentz discussed the forthcoming combo curriculum, bowhunter education instructor classes, the Crossbow Hunter Survey, and the Elevated Hunting Instructor online class on the IHEA learning network platform.
Firearms Policy Coalition launched the 2026 FPC State Freedom Index, a scorecard evaluating gun rights across all 50 states and Washington, D.C. Only Kansas and New Hampshire earned perfect scores, while FPC President Brandon Combs criticized Republican-led states like Florida, Ohio, and Nebraska for failing to fully protect Second Amendment rights.
TWN Industries, Inc. introduced Elevate Camo, a hydrographic film designed for high-elevation alpine terrain featuring natural earth tones and layered textures. The camouflage pattern is optimized for rocky terrain and sparse vegetation, available for manufacturers, custom shops, and certified processors to apply to firearms, outdoor gear, and automotive components.
Q, LLC announced the release of the LEFTY silencer, featuring Low Blow™ technology and 3D printed internal structure to reduce backpressure and gas blowback. Available through Q dealers nationwide at $800 MSRP, the LEFTY is rated for full auto use across 5.56mm and 6mm ARC platforms.
Spartan Precision Equipment's Springbok Bipod has been named Outdoor Life's "Best Stalking Bipod of 2025." The bipod features the patented MagnaSwitch™ quick detach system, weighs 10.6 ounces, and adjusts from 19½ to 38½ inches, with an MSRP of $249.99.
Chattanooga Shooting Supplies (CSSI) announces Check-Mate Magazines are now available through its dealer network. Check-Mate Industries manufactures dependable handgun and rifle magazines for military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters, expanding CSSI's product lineup of trusted American-made options.
Berger has announced the addition of 300 PRC 217 Grain Elite Hunter ammunition to its long-range Elite Hunter product line. The new ammunition features a hybrid ogive design with a ballistic coefficient of 0.695, delivering exceptional energy and terminal performance for hunting applications.
The Lee Kay Public Shooting Range in Salt Lake City will host an open house on April 18, 2026, featuring clinics in rifle marksmanship, archery, trap and skeet shooting, and hunting dog training demonstrations. Manager Blanche Smith emphasizes the facility's importance as the only outdoor shooting range in the Salt Lake Valley, offering free range access and one free shotgun round on a first-come, first-served basis.
The National Friends of NRA Event on April 17th in Houston will feature rare firearms, hunts, and special guests including Henry Repeating Arms CEO Anthony Imperato, motivational speaker Vann Morris, and country artist Ben Gallaher. Highlights include a custom ACME Machine AM-10 LR .308 rifle, Smith & Wesson Collector's Set, and a five-day bull elk hunt at the NRA Whittington Center in New Mexico.
Henry Repeating Arms will showcase over 75 firearms at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, featuring its largest display ever. Founder and CEO Anthony Imperato and trick shooter 22Plinkster will make booth appearances, and Henry is the premier sponsor of the National Friends of NRA banquet.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks awarded Lucas Townsend a Weatherby Vanguard Black Hills rifle and BG a VIAM Outdoors Madison Tipi for completing the Hunter Landowner Stewardship Program. The education initiative teaches hunters about safety, ethics, and stewardship, with 2,044 participants this year receiving onX Hunt Elite Membership and raffle entry.
The Montana Fish and Wildlife Commission will meet virtually and in-person on April 16 at the Montana Heritage Center in Helena. Public comment registration for Zoom participants is open through noon on April 15 via the FWP website.
Registration is open for the Tyler Vanderheiden Memorial Run on May 30 at Cody Park in North Platte, offering 2- or 5-mile distances in-person or virtually. Proceeds benefit the Jim MacAllister Nature Trail renovation at Smith Falls State Park, with funding matched by the Recreational Trails Program.
Arkansas State Parks and the USDA Forest Service have entered a cooperative operating agreement to support public access at Blanchard Springs Caverns during the 2026 season. Guided cavern tours will begin May 1, 2026, with reservations available through recreation.gov. The site will undergo major renovations following the 2026 season, with a grand reopening anticipated in 2028.
The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission has lifted its temporary ban on campfires and prescribed burns at all state park areas and wildlife management areas following recent rains and the State of Nebraska's decision to rescind its burn ban.
The High Road Group with Keith Warren released a new hog hunting video featuring Berger Bullets, Bering Optics, and Shaw Custom Barrels. Co-host Johnny Piazza and Dominic Trapanese of Capstone Precision Group demonstrate thermal optics and precision ammunition effectiveness during a nighttime feral hog eradication mission.
World Fishing Network launches "Reeling Around Wednesdays" featuring legendary anglers including Bill Dance, Roland Martin, Jimmy Houston, and Jon Thelen. The weekly programming block showcases fishing techniques, tactics, and adventures across diverse locations and species, with shows available on MyOutdoorTV streaming service.
The Green Way Outdoors Season 6 premieres on Waypoint TV, featuring hosts Kyle Green and Jeff Hutchinson in action-packed hunting and fishing adventures. The conservation-focused series partners with Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation, and Safari Club International, available across multiple streaming platforms.
MyOutdoorTV presents "Turkey Takedown 2 with Michael Waddell," a free live streaming hunt on April 7 at 7:00 a.m. ET featuring Michael Waddell pursuing an Eastern Boss Tom in west-central Georgia. The live event showcases turkey hunting techniques and conservation success stories.
Waypoint TV announced Season 5 of Winchester Life, featuring raw hunting and wildlife content exclusively on the streaming platform. The new season is available across major platforms including Amazon Prime, Tubi, and Samsung TV Plus, continuing Winchester's 160-year brand legacy.
And you don’t need to be a seasoned tournament pro to be successful.
During spring, the local weatherman stands before a green screen, strategically circling portions of the state with high and low pressure systems. Predicting spring weather in Idaho can be all over the map. While it might be weeks before most anglers wait for those warm, sunny days to pack coolers and slather on sunscreen, there is a group of die-hards who anxiously await these unpredictable days this April: We’re looking at you, hardcore bass anglers.
The reason anglers go after bass during these next few weeks is simple: That’s when the big, trophy-size bass are swimming up from the deeper pools to spawn in shallower water. Warmer temperatures mean more active bass. Imagine just how fun waking up at 4 a.m. to go for a jog in January sounds. You get the point.
While both largemouth and smallmouth bass can be targeted most of the year, the first few weeks of spring — as water temperatures begin to rise — mark the most exciting time to target trophy bass. And, no, you don’t need to be a bass tournament pro to get in on the hunt either.
All it takes is a little understanding of a bass’s habitat, their spawning cycle, water temperature dynamics, and directions to a nearby fishery. Put it all together and you got a recipe for one heck of a weekend fishing for America’s most popular game fish.
A pain in the bass
Bass can be tricky. While found across most of the state, the opportunity to track them down during this pivotal season is often easier in theory than in reality. Understanding their habitat and the type of waterbody they inhabit is key to homing in on either small or largemouth bass.
Smallmouths tend to lurk in cooler waters, such as the Snake River and cooler lakes with deeper water and less vegetation. Largemouth, on the other hand, tend to be found in warmer, shallower bodies of water where rocks and vegetation provide ample coverage from overhead sun and predators. Think of that local pond or reservoir with fallen trees, rock crevices, cattails, over-hanging willows, cottonwoods, lily pads, etc.
Generally speaking, if you can see the structure above the water, or just below the surface, then it’s more likely largemouth territory. And if it’s too deep to tell or too cold to wade and find out, then you might be in smallmouth country.
As water temperatures slowly begin their spring and summer climb, it’s worth noting that the window of opportunity to find these big fish is only open for a few weeks, sometimes less depending on the rate at which the temperatures rise and how (let’s just say) “efficient” the bass are at spawning.
“At around 60 degrees, bass are full-on spawning,” says Martin Koenig, Fish and Game’s Sportfish Program Coordinator. “At that point, they are already thinking about digging their nests and depositing their eggs, which means that bass are very catchable in the mid-50 degree range.”
Bodies of water warm up differently based on their size and location. Shallower water warms quicker than deeper water. That kiddie pool in your backyard is going to be a lot warmer (a lot quicker) than water flowing out the base of Arrowrock Dam, for instance.
So, monitoring the ongoing temperatures of whichever body of water you plan on fishing is key. Keep a thermometer handy inside your tackle box when you go out. In many bass fisheries in the southern part of the state (more on fishing destinations later), that clock is already counting down.
Check the weather
Spring fishing can be hit and miss, but it’s usually best when the weather is stable. Bass will come into shallow waters as weather warms, and will stay there if conditions remain good. Spring cold fronts can interrupt this migration, when bass often turn back to deeper water. Anglers will have better luck fishing on bright, sunny days when the fish are more active. Cloudy or rainy days often push bass back down to their wintering levels, making the bite less predictable.
Boat or bank angler?
Normally the only way to target those big, deep-water bass during the year is by boat and some form of technology that monitors water depth. Shore anglers are usually pretty limited to how deep they can target fish since casting line out from dry land only gets you so far.
During much of the year, those larger bass (especially smallmouth) are down deep or hanging on offshore structures, making them tough for shore anglers to reach. However, as the temperatures rise and we get deeper into April, the playing field sort of levels out for anglers of both varieties.
Pre-spawn bass will be ascending from the deeper pockets of a lake or reservoir on to shallow gravelly flats. This is when shore anglers have a better chance to reach them with a jig or bait — and fancy sonar ain’t necessary.
Full-on spawn
“It may just be three weeks out of the year, but the bigger smallmouth are going to be the ones ready to spawn,” says Koenig. “Those mature 15-19 inchers are seeking out the sandier, gravelly shallows to carve out little divots in the bottom and deposit their eggs in those spots.”
Males will usually show up first to prep the nests in hopes of attracting a female. Once the work of digging the nests is done, females will show up (if the males’ handiwork is up to snuff) and deposit their eggs.
The females don’t stick around much longer after that, though. The males, on the other hand, will hang around to guard the nests and ward off any predators, such as bluegill or perch, which might see the eggs or newly hatched bass fry as an easy meal. Males also work to keep the eggs oxygenated by fanning them.
“But seeking out the spawning beds is just an indicator,” Koenig suggests. “Finding those transition zones in the water level, somewhere between the warm shallows and spots just below, is where you want to be targeting them.”
A lesson from Oxbow Reservoir
Oxbow Reservoir, the 581-acre stretch of water along the lower Snake River, is a perfect example of how water temperature determines where bass are on their life cycle.
Oxbow’s long and shallow water corridor — essentially a bloated section of the Snake River — doesn’t provide many opportunities for deep sections of water that a larger lake might have. Water flowing into Oxbow from the base of Brownlee Dam is especially cold, roughly 55 degrees during spring. With colder water coming in, bass might be pre-spawn in the upper end of the reservoir.
Mid-way down, where the water temperatures have warmed to around 60 degrees, bass will have already moved on to the heart of the spawn, hugging those shallows closer to the bank to dig nests and lay eggs.
Near the lower end of the reservoir, the bass may have finished spawning and are already back in the deeper portions of the reservoir.
And the cool thing? All of these behaviors and stages in the spawn can be witnessed on a single day. Where your fishing spot falls on the temperature scale will determine what part of the bass life cycle is happening there.
As seen in the Oxbow Reservoir example, there are many factors that drive water temperatures to fluctuate. It goes without saying that lakes at higher elevations take longer to warm up. For example, the higher elevation upper Snake River flowing into American Falls Reservoir is going to take a lot longer to reach those optimal 55-65 degree water temperatures than, say, C.J. Strike Reservoir in the southwest corner of the state, despite being on the same river system.
Anglers should be thinking about this when considering where to target big bass. Expect the bite to be earlier where the waters warm soonest. And that brings us to our final point.
Where to fish for bass around the state
There are dozens of fisheries all across the state that hold decent populations of largemouth bass and smallmouth bass (and in a few cases, both). Depending on the region, consistent weather patterns and a preference on which type of bass you’re going for, here is a list of some of the best bass fishing spots around Idaho.
LARGEMOUTH BASS
Shallower, warmer waters. Look for 5-10 feet of water, with flooded habitat, tree stumps, cover, and vegetation.
Lake Lowell
Crane Falls Reservoir
Cove Arm Reservoir
Glendale Reservoir
Ben Ross Reservoir
Pend Oreille River
Weston Reservoir
Mann Lake
Mud Lake
Mann Creek Reservoir
And community ponds
SMALLMOUTH BASS
Smallmouth habitat is harder to recognize and might be deep below the surface. In the spring, look for rocky shorelines with boulders, dams, dikes, cliffs, etc. Anything that breaks the river current is a good bet.
Brownlee Reservoir
Cascade Reservoir
Anderson Ranch Reservoir
Dworshak Reservoir
Milner Reservoir
Lake Pend Oreille
American Falls Reservoir
Lake Walcott
Foster Reservoir
Salmon Falls Creek Reservoir
Lower Snake River
BOTH SMALLMOUTH & LARGEMOUTH
Diverse bodies of water that have both deep, cooler pools and warm shallows along the bank can give anglers a good chance for targeting both smallmouth and largemouth bass.
C.J. Strike Reservoir
Coeur D’Alene Lake / Chain Lakes
Fish low and slow
Every day of fishing is a little different and every fish is a little different, but there are common traits that will help you catch bass during spring. They’re still a little sluggish, so they aren’t typically going to chase a fast-retrieved lure or bait.
That also means you might not get the savage strike for which bass are famous. It might feel as subtle as dragging your lure across a blade of grass, or a gentle, steady pull. Since they’re spawning — or getting ready to spawn — they’re likely going to be close to the bottom, so that’s where you want to fish.
