I fish the Payette River in Idaho for smallies. Our Fish and Game Dept does not even reccomend the lower Payette; perhaps they are not aware of how good it can be.

On the average, out of 6 days fishing I will NEVER see another person fishing on the lower river itself; however, I may see 2 guys fishing off a bridge during that same 6 day period. Due to the above I don't see the harm in fishing during the spawn. I usually keep one or two for supper, and release the others carefully. It's fun to catch the big ones, when I can, but I prefer the 12 to 18 inchers for eating now and then.

What seems to be the general opinion on the above?

Ken