Alpine lakes, llamas, and the Lost River Basin in Central Idaho with John Heckel

Our destination is the alpine lakes of Central Idaho, and our guest is John Heckel, Regional Fisheries Biologist for Idaho Fish and Game.  Idaho boasts the largest intact wilderness area in the lower 48.  And the Lost River drainage is home to dozens and dozens of remote and rugged alpine lakes chock full of hungry trout. 

John is an avid outdoorsman who loves chasing trout, upland birds, and big game. He’s fished nearly every lake in this area and gives us a mini-course on locating the best lakes, tips on fly fishing alpine lakes, and stories of close encounters with bears, llamas, and more.  If you’re looking for rugged scenery, high catch rates, and a slice of heaven all to yourself, then listen in as we escape the crowds and the heat down low and venture into the wilderness with John. 

With host, Steve Haigh

Pictures of Alpine Lakes in the Lost River Basin:

• @DestinationAnglerPodcast on Instagram and Facebook

Contact John Heckel, Idaho Fish & Game

• john.heckel@idfg.idaho.gov   | 208-535-8004

• Idaho Fish & Game Alpine Lakes website: https://idfg.idaho.gov/fish/alpine
• Big Lost River Trip Planner:  https://idfg.idaho.gov/ifwis/fishingplanner/water/1128381437946

Please check out our Sponsors:

• Angler’s Coffee - elevating the coffee experience for the fly-fishing community & anglers everywhere with small-batch coffee delivered to your doorstep.  https://anglerscoffee.com/   | Facebook & Instagram @anglerscoffeeco   
• Trout Routes - the #1 Trout Fishing app, helping you find new trout water so you spend less time on the road and more time fishing.  https://troutinsights.com/ | Facebook @troutinsights Instagram @TroutRoutes 

Destination Angler:

• The Destination Angler Website and Show Notes:   http://destinationangler.libsyn.com/

• Get updates and pictures of destinations covered on each podcast: @DestinationAnglerPodcast on Instagram and Facebook
• Join in the conversation with the @DestinationAnglerConnection group on Facebook.

Comments & Suggestions:  host, Steve Haigh, email shaigh50@gmail.com

Available on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts

Recorded Oct 6, 2022.  Episode 77

Music on the show by A Brother’s Fountain, “Hitch Hike-Man”.