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Hawkins Reservoir & Devils Creek

Posted on: April 11, 2007

By Dave Langston

Hawkins reservoir is known more for the trophy deer hunting that surrounds it than a fishing hole but anglers in the know are cashing in on rainbows up to 18 inches from the bank and on the water. Troy Evans of Pocatello fishes the reservoir religiously after work from spring until fall. “I have been fishing here for years and when the water has held over from the previous year, rainbows seem to grow real fast in here,” he says. Water levels over the past 2 – 3 years have kept reservoirs full and small reservoirs like Hawkins have been producing for anglers and offering quality fishing experiences. With Idaho Fish and Game (208) 232-4703 regularly stocking these waters expect good fishing throughout the summer unless water levels drop dangerously low. “We have been fishing near the dam and so far power bait, worms and corn have done well for us,” says Evans. Hawkins also fishes well for trolling and spin fisherman. Panther Martins, Flat fish & Rapala type lures are top bets. Hawkins reservoir is 25 miles south of Pocatello. Near the Malad summit south of Pocatello, Devils creek reservoir has turned on as trout fishermen have been landing bows in the 14” class. Reports from Sportsman’s Warehouse in Pocatello (208)-238-7500 has fish on the take for boat fishermen. Trolling seems to be the most effective method using traditional tackle. Mepps, Panther Martins, Rapalas and silver spoons seem to be the ticket for a limit. Largemouth bass should be coming on as the weather continues to stay near 70 degrees in southeast Idaho. The reservoir is LOADED with scrappy 11-12 inch spinney rays. I believe bass are the prominent fishery after landing over 50 within half-day of fishing last year. According to region 5 Fish and Game, they are going to let this fishery basically become a bass factory. Since they lost Deep Creek a few years back and killed off the only warm water fishery in that region, F&G has decided to let this one go to the bass but will continue stocking trout. Expect to see this fishery become a family friendly reservoir with no size limits soon.

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About Dave Langston

Outdoor writer Dave Langston resides in Chubbuck. He grew up in the Midwest and south fishing and hunting across the country.

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