Exploring Dworshak: Is Granddad Boat Launch Accessible?

Dworshak Reservoir is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts, with boating facilities that include seven boat launches and seven boat ramps. However, the reservoir's water levels can fluctuate significantly, affecting boat ramp accessibility. In 2015, the reservoir was just 30 feet from full pool, providing good early-season recreation conditions. More recently, in 2024, the reservoir hit unusually low levels, sitting about 150 feet below full pool. This made boat launching a challenging endeavour, with only the Big Eddy boat ramp accessible at the time.

Dworshak Reservoir's water level is unusually low this year

Dworshak Reservoir in Idaho is a popular destination for camping, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, waterskiing, and disc golf. The Dworshak State Park, located on the western shore of the reservoir, offers a range of outdoor activities and recreation for visitors.

However, in 2023, the Dworshak Reservoir's water level is unusually low. While the specific water levels for this year are not readily available, historical data indicates that in 2015, a similar situation occurred, with the reservoir being just 30 feet from full pool. This was attributed to a low snow year, which reduced the inflows into the reservoir.

The low water levels in 2023 could be a result of similar factors, such as low snowpack or reduced inflows. It's important to note that the region's snow pack and weather conditions directly impact the flood risk and reservoir management decisions made by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

The effects of the low water levels are varied. On the one hand, low water levels can make it more accessible to shoreline campsites, as it becomes a shorter hike. Additionally, anglers may find improved fishing opportunities, especially for smallmouth bass, as higher abundances of fish tend to concentrate in certain areas.

On the other hand, low water levels can impact boating facilities and access. Houseboat moorage, for instance, may become challenging due to the difficulty of loading and removing vessels from the reservoir. It is recommended that boaters remain patient and cautious when using the ramps, as it may take longer to launch and retrieve boats.

The reservoir is about 150 feet below full pool

Dworshak Reservoir in Idaho offers a plethora of activities for visitors, including camping, boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, water skiing, and disc golf. The reservoir's water levels fluctuate, and in March 2015, it was reported to be just 30 feet from full pool. However, in 2023, the National Weather Service addressed flooding and drought issues across the southeast U.S., indicating that the reservoir's water levels may have changed significantly since the 2015 report.

The reservoir's water level impacts various recreational activities and facilities. For instance, higher pool elevations, as experienced in 2015, make it a short hike to the shoreline campsites. This can be advantageous for early campers and anglers looking to take advantage of the abundant bass and kokanee in the reservoir.

On the other hand, lower water levels can also provide benefits. A low snow year, for example, means that not as much space in the reservoir needs to be reserved for potential inflows, creating good early-season recreation conditions. This was the case in 2015, when the Dworshak Reservoir had a lower-than-normal snowpack, and the higher pool elevation was favourable for campers.

The reservoir's water levels are closely monitored by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Dworshak Natural Resource Manager, who make decisions regarding reservoir management and recreational opportunities. While specific data on the current water levels is unavailable, the reservoir's website provides contact information for inquiries about facilities and current conditions.

The Big Eddy boat ramp is the only ramp on the Dworshak Reservoir that isn't high and dry

Boating, camping, fishing, swimming, hiking, waterskiing, and disc golf are just a few of the activities available at Dworshak State Park, which is located on the western coast of Dworshak Reservoir. A boat ramp and handling dock make launching boats easy for most of the year, and a fish-cleaning station is conveniently located close by.

The Big Eddy boat ramp, Canyon Creek ramp, Bruce's Eddy ramp, and Dent Acres ramp are all a part of the Dworshak Reservoir. The Big Eddy boat ramp is the only ramp on the Dworshak Reservoir that isn't high and dry. The Canyon Creek, Bruce's Eddy, and Dent Acres boat ramps, as well as the Dent Acres Campground restroom, opened on March 16, 2015.

The Big Eddy Marina and Lodge at Dworshak State Park offer 99 full-season boat slips, on-the-water fuel, a marina store, and a large conference area perfect for weddings, meetings, or parties. The park has campsites, cabins, and the Three Meadows Group Camp, a fully equipped large group facility.

The Dworshak Reservoir is a great place for boating, with smallmouth bass fishing being a popular activity. The reservoir's water level is impacted by the region's snow pack and weather, which in turn affects Corps Reservoir Management decisions.

The boat ramp has a steep drop-off, which can be challenging to navigate

Dworshak Reservoir is a popular destination for watersports enthusiasts, with various boat facilities available. However, one aspect that boaters should be cautious of is the steep drop-off at the Granddad boat ramp, which can make for a challenging navigation experience.

The Granddad boat ramp is known for its steep incline, and when launching a boat, it can feel like you are "dropping off the face of the world," as described by Lewiston resident Steve Stajkowski. The ramp follows a ridge with drop-offs on both sides and then takes a sharp 90-degree turn partway down. This sharp turn can be unnerving for boaters, especially those who are inexperienced or unfamiliar with the ramp.

The steep drop-off and the layout of the ramp present a unique challenge for boaters. It is crucial to approach this ramp with caution and to be aware of the potential hazards. Boaters should ensure they are driving down the ramp slowly and carefully. It is also important to be mindful of other boaters who may be using the ramp, as the loading and unloading process for larger boats can take a considerable amount of time.

Additionally, the water levels in the reservoir can impact the difficulty of navigating the ramp. In 2024, the Dworshak Reservoir experienced unusually low water levels, with the reservoir about 150 feet below full pool. This exposed old bridge footings and road beds that hadn't been seen in years. Low water levels can further complicate the already challenging navigation of the steep drop-off at the Granddad boat ramp.

When approaching the Granddad boat ramp at Dworshak Reservoir, it is essential to exercise caution and be mindful of the steep drop-off. While the ramp provides access to the reservoir for boaters, it requires careful navigation to ensure a safe and smooth launch. Boaters should also stay updated with the latest information on water levels and any potential hazards that may impact their experience.

The Dworshak Reservoir offers excellent fishing opportunities, especially for smallmouth bass

The Dworshak Reservoir is ranked #9 in the United States for its incredible fishing opportunities. It is particularly renowned for its smallmouth bass fishing, with anglers reporting catches of 40 bass, including 5 and 6-pounders. The reservoir is also home to kokanee and rainbow trout, providing a diverse fishing experience.

The smallmouth bass population in Dworshak Reservoir has thrived in recent years, thanks to an abundant food source in the form of kokanee. Kokanee are a type of salmon that spawn at two years of age, and their high numbers have provided ample food for bass of all sizes. This has resulted in an increase in the number of "quality" bass in the 2-4 pound range, as well as trophy-sized fish weighing 6-8 pounds.

The excellent fishing opportunities at Dworshak Reservoir are not limited to smallmouth bass. Anglers targeting kokanee have also seen improved catches in recent years. In 2023, the average length of a two-year-old kokanee was 8.5 inches, a one-inch increase from 2022. While kokanee typically need to be over 8 inches for anglers to have success, the larger size of the kokanee in 2023 led to improved catch rates.

Additionally, the reservoir offers excellent fishing for rainbow trout. Catchable-sized rainbow trout are stocked from May through October at the Dent Acres boat launch. These trout can be found throughout the reservoir, especially in the lower end below Dent Bridge, providing opportunities for both boat and shore anglers.

However, it is important to note that the Dworshak Reservoir is currently facing unusually low water levels. Most boat ramps, including the one at Granddad, are high and dry, making launching a boat a challenging task. Despite this, the Big Eddy boat ramp remains functional, allowing determined anglers to access the water.

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