Gun Laws And 2a
Alan Liere’s hunting and fishing report for Oct. 9, 2025
Alan Liere’s hunting and fishing report for Oct. 9, 2025
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✍️By ZRIntel Editorial Team📍Spokane, Washington1 reactions • 1 likes
As October sets in, anglers and hunters in the Pacific Northwest are thriving with a range of opportunities to engage with nature. With the shift in seasons, many waterways are teeming with life, providing ample chances for success on fishing trips while the hunting landscape is equally promising.
Fly fishermen in the Spokane area are witnessing the early arrival of larger rainbow trout in the Spokane River. Local guides at Silver Bow Fly Shop recommend using larger Chernobyl patterns complemented with droppers to attract fish, alongside October caddis and blue-winged olives, which are also in season. For those looking to expand their fishing expeditions, both the North Fork of the Coeur d’Alene River and the St. Joe River are currently producing excellent trout catches.
For those targeting kokanee, report triploid rainbows weighing between 3 to 5 pounds dominate the scene at Rufus Woods Reservoir, where a little current significantly improves fishing conditions. Meanwhile, trollers on Lake Roosevelt are reeling in sizable trout—many measuring over 17 inches—by employing various techniques, such as trolling at about 30 feet using flies and larger lures.
As for the salmon and steelhead, the recent opening of the Snake and Clearwater rivers for the harvest of non-clipped chinook salmon offers further fishing options until the end of October. The current limits allow fishermen to keep up to three adult chinooks—whether wild or hatchery—while there’s no limit imposed on jack chinooks. Despite fluctuations in catch rates due to weather conditions, anecdotal evidence suggests a mix of success, especially for those armed with knowledge of the latest techniques and hot spots.
Hunters aren't left behind as pheasant season is set to kick off in north Idaho, specifically on October 9th, with almost 29,000 pheasants being released by the Idaho Fish and Game across various regions throughout the state. Furthermore, the Idaho Fish and Game has reported that chukar populations are looking strong, providing good prospects for hunters in the Salmon and Snake River drainages. Valley quail numbers are also promising, affording hunters additional chances for a successful outing.
However, grouse hunters face some challenges as sightings remain low across several outings in both Washington and Idaho. The cooler autumn temperatures are anticipated to improve visibility and hunting opportunities as grouse begin to emerge from their summer shelters.
In Washington, the general season for white-tailed and mule deer hunting starts this Saturday. Reports indicate that the best districts for white-tailed deer are found in Ferry, Stevens, and Pend Oreille counties, while mule deer enthusiasts may want to check out GMUs 101 and 121. Specific regulations outlined in the Idaho Big Game pamphlet provide vital information for ensuring compliance, emphasizing the need for hunters to stay informed.
Also worth noting, duck and goose hunting seasons are gearing up near the end of the month. Washington's duck hunting opens statewide, with specific regulations outlined for different birds and areas. Idaho has also started its own duck hunting season, adding to the excitement for waterfowl hunters this autumn.
As a side note, reports also reveal that turkey hunters across both Idaho and Washington have until December 31st to track down their game, creating an extended window for avid bird hunters.
With so much action happening in both hunting and fishing this October, it’s crucial for enthusiasts to prepare adequately. As local waters fill with trout and rivers brimming with salmon, there's no shortage of opportunities that can lead to memorable experiences outdoors this fall season.
ShoQ’s Take: Overall, the fishing conditions and hunting regulations indicate an active autumn for outdoorsmen, but fluctuations and localized productivity remind us that continual adaptation is key. Fishermen should watch water temperatures and weather conditions as they impact species behavior, while hunters must pay close attention to varying population trends and seasonal openings where they hunt. Keeping abreast of state regulations is equally important for a successful and compliant outing—both crucial elements in maintaining our outdoor traditions during this vibrant season.