In Idaho the upper Clearwater ( above Orofino) is no motors only- also no bait. Other than that its the same as the lower river, barbless, and of course release of all wild steelhead. Makes for a nice float and also some good fly water up there without all the zoo that comes with sleds and larger jet boats.

A couple things I have never understood about Guides in general ( not that I am against them) just don't see how there can be so many in Washington, Oregon and I guess Alaska. In Idaho, the number is capped for each particular section of river. They must have permits. These permits sell for big money- hundreds of thousands of dollars in some cases. This accomplishes a few key things. Anybody who simply has some time and a boat can't sell his time as a "guide".. If you fish here with a guide you know in advance that this dude has a lot of money invested in this busness and is probably pretty up to date on where and how etc. - Its not something he does in his spare time. These guys also have to go through some basic safety and I believe emergancy medical training. Last but not least they are bonded. Its my opinion that there should never be a limit or even a concideration on the number of private boats vs guided boats on any river. If thats even an issue then you have too many guides, and if thats the case, you have too many people and need to restrict the total number by drawing for permits. The middle fork of the Salmon river is a good example of how this system works ( however, I think they give guides too many launch dates )

This system works for the guides also. It helps them make more money because its not a price war out there.. It weeds out the guys who really should not be selling their services.