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Anderson Ranch Reservoir

Boat Ramps
5
Access Points
5
Campsites
16

Anderson Ranch Reservoir is a large impoundment on the South Fork Boise River in central Idaho, offering diverse paddling opportunities. The reservoir spans 7.4 square miles (4,730 acres), stretching 14 miles long and 1 mile wide with 50 miles of shoreline. Its maximum depth reaches 315 feet.

Access is available via improved dirt roads from Anderson Dam and Fall Creek. The reservoir features multiple boat ramps and docks, though specific paddling launch sites are not detailed. Campgrounds at Deer Creek, Curlew Creek, and Fall Creek provide overnight options.

Prime paddling season runs from June through October. Early summer (June-July) sees kokanee salmon schooling in 20-40 foot depths, while August-September brings them to shallower 10-20 foot zones near creek inlets. Fall colors and spawning activity create scenic paddling in October-November.

Key areas of interest include: - The Dam: Rocky face offers year-round paddling opportunities - Cottonwood Creek: Southwest inlet, active with spawning fish in fall - Spring Creek: Major spawning stream on east shore - The Island: Sunken island off marina, attracts fish - Long points: Cemetery, Sheep Creek, and Sockeye hold roaming fish schools

Wildlife viewing opportunities include kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, yellow perch, and bull trout. The reservoir is stocked to maintain healthy fish populations.

Facilities include vault toilets, a dump station, food service, and fuel. The Boise National Forest manages the area, keeping it open year-round. Paddlers should be aware of potential motorized boat traffic, especially during peak fishing seasons.

While primarily known for fishing, the reservoir's expansive waters and mountain scenery provide a picturesque setting for flatwater paddling excursions.


Water access, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Anderson Ranch Reservoir. Uncover great paddling access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. PaddleWays's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

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Idaho licenses and regulations

Idaho Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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Idaho Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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Idaho Fishing License

"To fish in Idaho any person 14 years of age or older must have a valid fishing license. Anglers younger than 14 do not need a license, but there is a small difference between resident and nonresident youth. -A resident child under 14 has their own separate fishing limit. -A nonresident child under 14 must be with someone who has a valid fishing license and their fish are in included in the license holders fishing limit. However, a nonresident child may purchase their own license and have their own limit. Special fishing permits are need for some activities for both residents and nonresidents: -Fishing for salmon and steelhead -Fishing with two poles."

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Idaho Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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Idaho Stream Access Laws

Navigable streams are recognized as public transportation corridors, thus members of the public have the right to use the corridor, provided they enter and exit the corridor at a public right of way and remain within the corridor. Many navigable streams flow through private property, thus it is important that anglers know their rights and responsibilities when fishing in navigable waters that flow through private property.

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Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to paddle Anderson Ranch Reservoir and check the forecast before you go.

Anderson Ranch Dam and Reservoir

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