There is something hard to describe about the both serene peace and the hushed thrill of fishing, don’t you agree? Whether you’re sitting on a dock casting your line, standing on the sandy shoreline listening to the wind wisp through the trees, or sitting on a boat in the middle of a lake alone with your thoughts… there’s a peaceful act of fishing that is hard to capture in words. Being in nature is good for the soul. Yet as peaceful and serene and calming as the experience can be, there is also that thrilling excitement of the patience of the hunt and finally the catch. When you hook a fish on the line, adrenaline pulses through your veins and all that patience and quiet contemplation pays off: you caught a fish!

Beautiful rainbow trout fresh from the river

Did you know that Idaho has some incredible fishing spots? I know, Idaho. The poor state has become synonymously known for only potatoes but there is more to this fun state than just some spuds! Island Park, a town situated in the southeast corridors of Idaho, is a really cool little spot to visit if you haven’t had a chance. Island Park is a neighbor of Yellowstone National Park, so it offers a plethora of activities and endless views. Here are a few reasons why you should visit Island Park:

o Known as “fisherman’s paradise” – this area has some of the best fishing in the country!

o Island Park is a located about 15-45 minutes from Yellowstone’s West entrance, offering convenience to the exciting national park but the seclusion and variety of a town.

o It’s an all-year destination. Island Park has fun things to do in spring, summer, fall and winter from fishing, swimming, hiking and snowmobiling! Fun for the whole family!

If fishing is your game, then you’ve got to make Island Park the next stop on your vacation list. Henry’s Lake in Island Park offers spectacular fishing. As of one of Idaho’s great high mountain lakes it offers a variety of fish to satisfy those fishing desires and is considered one of the best trout fisheries in the West. Located only 15 miles west of Yellowstone National Park, Henry’s Lake offer fishermen the opportunity to get on the water from the Thursday before Memorial Day through the second Saturday of October. For specific opening times, check out the Henry Lake website.

Even if you’re not an avid fisherman, or just along for the ride with a gung-ho husband, you can still find plenty of thrill and excitement around Henry’s Lake. It’s a known area to see other wildlife such as swans, cranes, antelope and even moose! It’s definitely worth bringing your camera (might we suggest a waterproof case too) and be poised and ready to capture some of the wildlife on your adventure.

Island Park Idaho provides you and your family so many moments to connect not only with nature, but with one another. Our world is busy, it’s the new “it” phrase- oh I’m just so busy – and there’s something about staying in a cabin with friends and family that really encourages you to disconnect from the digital world and open your eyes to the natural experiences around you. Sometimes the best moments are the ones unplugged, quiet, and without wifi (although yes, there is wifi in the cabin for your teenage daughter who has to keep up her Snapchat streak with her friends). There is something about waking up in a cabin and being that close and connected to nature that makes you feel calm and peaceful. Unlike the business of normal life where your feet hit the ground running into a dozen directions, waking up in a cabin and looking out the window to a view like Island Park sets your mind, body and heart at ease.

Your next vacation is calling, and if Island Park has peaked your interest then check out www.VisitIslandParkIdaho.com for some suggestions on where to stay and local attractions. A great selection of cabins to give you that secluded feel but still easily drivable to some great local bites and pints, shops and civilization while being immersed in the beautiful natural surroundings of Island Park Idaho. Come see the MAGIC…someday.

cabins to rent for your visit