Brownlee Reservoir is a 57-mile long impoundment on the Snake River, straddling the Idaho-Oregon border. The reservoir offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and camping, with limited access points. The northern portion can be reached from Cambridge, Idaho by following State Highway 71 northwest for about 25 miles to the Snake River. The southern end is accessible from Weiser, Idaho via Olds Ferry Road, which follows the Snake River to the upper reservoir.

Brownlee is known for its warm water fishery, with healthy populations of smallmouth bass, catfish, and crappie. The reservoir has produced state record catches for flathead catfish, bullhead catfish, white crappie, and black crappie. Other species include perch, bluegill, largemouth bass, and stocked rainbow trout.

Smallmouth bass fishing is particularly popular, best done by boat in areas with gravel bars and rocky outcroppings. Crappie fishing peaks in spring and early summer in calm inlets. Catfishing is most productive in the upper third of the reservoir during summer months and can be done effectively from shore.

The Bureau of Land Management oversees recreation on Brownlee Reservoir. The limited access and large size of the reservoir mean paddlers should be prepared for potentially long distances between put-ins and take-outs. The reservoir's location along the Snake River provides scenic views.

Given its warm water fishery, Brownlee Reservoir is most suitable for paddling in spring, summer, and early fall. Paddlers should be aware that the reservoir is popular for motorized boating and fishing, which may impact the paddling experience.