Cecil D Andrus Wildlife and Fish

Wildlife
When you visit Cecil D. Andrus WMA you will be able to see at least 26 different mammal species and over 65 different kinds of birds. A 1996 wildlife inventory found that at least 108 vertebrate species live on the WMA. Whether you are a hunter or an avid bird and wildlife observer you can easily find plenty of excitement here.

Mule deer and elk are the most common big game animals on the WMA and can be found there year-round, although their numbers dramatically increase during the winter months. The relatively light snowfall during winter makes forage readily available providing much needed range for Game Management Units 22 and 31. Aerial counts of game have documented that at least 700-800 elk and 1500 mule deer use the WMA during winter.

The WMA is home to other wildlife including black bear, mountain lion, coyote, cottontail rabbit, mink, beaver, raccoon and numerous non-game species. Upland game birds found on the WMA include chukar, blue grouse, California quail, ring neck pheasant, gray partridge, ruffed grouse and wild turkey. A diverse community of songbirds fills the morning air with music and gives birdwatchers many opportunities to add to their list of spotted birds.

Fisheries
Brownlee Reservoir forms part of the western boundary of the WMA. This 57-mile long reservoir has some of the best warm water fishing in the western United States. The following fish species inhabit Brownlee: small mouth bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, bull head catfish, channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, sturgeon, sunfish, pumpkinseed and rainbow trout.

Idaho Power Company provides an excellent campground at Woodhead Park on highway 71 adjacent to the WMA complete with boat ramps and all the facilities needed by the fisherman.

Cecil D Andrus WMA supports native redband trout populations in about 30 miles of perennial streams throughout the WMA accessible by foot or horseback. Brownlee Creek and the East Fork of Brownlee Creek near the WMA are readily accessible from highway 71.