Back 30 Outfitters
Status: active
Joey Dotson operates Back 30 Outfitters out of Orofino, Idaho, guiding anglers on Dworshak Reservoir and the North Fork Clearwater River. He targets smallmouth bass, kokanee, bull trout, and crappie, with deep knowledge of seasonal patterns across spring, summer, and fall. His operation emphasizes accessible, family-friendly trips that balance action with the scenic beauty of central Idaho's backcountry waters.
Details
- Species: Smallmouth Bass, Red Salmon, Bull Trout, Crappie
- Tags: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced, Spin Fishing, Spring, Summer, Autumn, Family Friendly, Half Day, Full Day, Gear Provided, Freshwater
Waters Serviced (4)
| Destination | Type |
|---|---|
| Orofino | city |
| Dworshak Reservoir | reservoir |
| North Fork Clearwater River | river |
| Idaho | state |
FAQ — Back 30 Outfitters
Raw guide data (JSON)
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"name": "Back 30 Outfitters",
"guideName": "Joey Dotson",
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"bio": "Joey Dotson operates Back 30 Outfitters out of Orofino, Idaho, guiding anglers on Dworshak Reservoir and the North Fork Clearwater River. He targets smallmouth bass, kokanee, bull trout, and crappie, with deep knowledge of seasonal patterns across spring, summer, and fall. His operation emphasizes accessible, family-friendly trips that balance action with the scenic beauty of central Idaho's backcountry waters.",
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"city": "Orofino",
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"canonicalUrl": "https://back30outfitters.com/fishing-trips",
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"fishingSeasonsNarrative": "My guiding year on the reservoir is a dynamic dance with the seasons, each offering a unique angling experience. Spring kicks off with the excitement of bass fishing as the water warms, and the kokanee begin their pre-spawn runs. Summer is prime time for family trips, where the bass are active and the kokanee provide steady action, perfect for combining with a swim or a shore lunch. As fall approaches, the reservoir continues to offer opportunities for bass, and the cooler temperatures bring a crispness to the air, making for a pleasant day on the water.",
"meetingPoint": null,
"providesGear": true,
"gearNotes": "All fishing gear is provided, including rods, reels, and tackle. Clients should bring sun protection, appropriate clothing for Idaho weather, and any personal gear preferences.",
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"whatToExpect": "Trips on Dworshak Reservoir rotate with the seasons—spring bass fishing as water warms, summer kokanee runs combined with family-friendly action and shore lunches, and fall outings with cooler-weather comfort. Full-day and half-day options are available, with flexibility to mix fishing with swimming or scenic breaks.",
"status": "active",
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"createdAt": "2026-05-16T01:19:46.294Z",
"updatedAt": "2026-05-16T01:38:08.842Z",
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"tags": [
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"slug": "beginner",
"name": "Beginner",
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{
"slug": "intermediate",
"name": "Intermediate",
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{
"slug": "advanced",
"name": "Advanced",
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{
"slug": "spin-fishing",
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{
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{
"slug": "family-friendly",
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{
"slug": "half-day",
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"faqs": [
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"question": "What is the minimum number of anglers for a trip?",
"answer": "Minimum of 2 anglers.",
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"question": "What species can I catch with Back 30 Outfitters?",
"answer": "Back 30 Outfitters targets Smallmouth Bass, Kokanee, Red Salmon, Bull Trout, and Crappie. They focus on seasonal patterns for these species.",
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"question": "What is included in the fishing trips?",
"answer": "All our fishing trips, all you have to do is grab your fishing license in town. We provide the boat, guide services & fishing gear for your trip. We also have upgrades for your lodging and all your food, you don’t have to worry about trying to find accommodations nor find restaurants close by in these rural parts!",
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"question": "Where does Back 30 Outfitters conduct their fishing trips?",
"answer": "Back 30 Outfitters operates on Dworshak Reservoir and the North Fork Clearwater River, both located near Orofino, Idaho.",
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"question": "What is the cancellation policy for hunts?",
"answer": "We ask for a $1000 non-refundable deposit to secure your spot. We ask for this to protect you and us. In case someone decides to cancel days before the hunt, where we turned others down for that spot, as well as covering part of the basic fees and wages.",
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"question": "What types of fishing trips does Back 30 Outfitters offer?",
"answer": "Back 30 Outfitters provides guided fishing trips suitable for various skill levels, including beginner, intermediate, and advanced anglers. They offer spin-fishing trips and cater to families.",
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{
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"question": "What is not included in the hunts?",
"answer": "Tax & Cost of license and tags (elk/deer allocated tags options), Taxidermy Services. have recommendations if needed, Meat processing services, but have recommendations (Guides quarter & pack game out), Gratuities for guides, cook or packer",
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"question": "What is the duration of trips offered by Back 30 Outfitters?",
"answer": "Back 30 Outfitters offers both half-day and full-day fishing trip options.",
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"destinations": [
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"accommodations": [],
"species": [
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"slug": "smallmouth-bass",
"commonName": "Smallmouth Bass",
"category": "freshwater",
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"seasonalityNotes": "The reservoir is renowned for its trophy Smallmouth Bass, which are targeted throughout much of the year. The state record has been broken multiple times here, offering anglers a shot at a true giant.",
"notes": null
},
{
"slug": "red-salmon",
"commonName": "Red Salmon",
"category": "anadromous",
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"seasonalityNotes": "Kokanee fishing is excellent, with fish averaging 8-10 inches. They are abundant and provide a great opportunity for anglers to catch and keep fish for dinner, especially before they make their spawning runs.",
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{
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{
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