Mackay Reservoir

About Mackay Reservoir

Time spent at Mackay Reservoir in Custer County, Idaho, feels like a peaceful retreat surrounded by open skies and gentle waters. The lake's expansive surface area creates a broad, shallow environment that invites visitors to enjoy a calm and accessible setting. With no significant depth to speak of, the reservoir offers a unique experience where the water's breadth is more striking than its depth. The nearby town of Mackay adds a quiet charm to the locale, making it a natural stop for those exploring Idaho's outdoor spaces. The reservoir's shallow nature means it warms quickly in the summer, providing a pleasant atmosphere for boating and relaxing by the water's edge. This is a place where the landscape's openness encourages a deep connection with nature and the simplicity of the outdoors.

Surface area

1,131 acres

Lake-Link Score

11.9

Fish species

Rainbow Trout

Fishing Mackay Reservoir

Quality fishing at Mackay Reservoir centers on the pursuit of rainbow trout, a species well-suited to the lake's conditions. The expansive shallow waters create an inviting habitat for these fish, offering anglers a chance to connect with a classic trout fishing experience. Anglers can expect a straightforward and rewarding outing here, where the focus remains on the quality of the catch rather than a variety of species. The setting encourages a relaxed approach to fishing, with the wide-open water making for an enjoyable day spent casting and waiting for a bite.