Illipah Reservoir
Map of Illipah Reservoir
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History
Illipah
Reservoir was created in 1953 when Illipah Creek was impounded for irrigation storage. In an agreement with the landowner that guaranteed
a minimum pool, the Department of Wildlife paid for the construction of a new
dam and the reservoir was enlarged in 1981.
Although the reservoir is located almost entirely on private land,
adjacent land is managed for recreation by BLM under a cooperative agreement
with the Department of Wildlife. The
public can access and fish the entire reservoir.
Pertinent Information
At
capacity, Illipah Reservoir covers 70 surface acres and has a maximum depth of
50 feet. Rainbow trout and a
self-sustaining population of brown trout reside in the reservoir. Good fishing can be found year around from
shore and float tubes, but peak success occurs in spring and fall. Winter ice fishing (December through
February) can also be good. Power Bait,
nightcrawlers, and salmon eggs along with the usual selection of spinners and
lures (Mepps, Panther Martins, and Dardevles) do well for trout. Fly-fishing with prince nymphs, wooly
buggers, sheep creek specials, and pheasant tails on a sinking line is popular. The BLM maintains the campgrounds with picnic
tables, fire pits, windscreens, restrooms, and trash barrels. An undeveloped boat launch exists.
Stocking
Regulations
Boating Regulations
A vessel must be operated at a speed that leaves a flat wake, but in no case may a vessel be operated at a speed in excess of 5 nautical miles per hour.
Camping
The BLM maintains campgrounds with picnic tables, fire pits, windscreens, vault toilets, and trash barrels. An undeveloped boat launch is available.
Access
Travel 34 miles west of Ely on Highway 50, turning south (left) at the sign and follow the dirt road 1 ½ miles to the reservoir. Muddy conditions occur when the road is wet, so use caution.
