Synopsis

As we come to the end of one of the most beautiful Septembers in recent memory, October will be arriving with inclement weather and notably lower temperatures. Forecasted snowfall as well as significantly lower daytime highs and nighttime lows will dramatically affect all the hatches, greatly limiting the productive windows for angling. For the persistent angler, fishing can be productive if timed with the warmer afternoon temperature windows and by covering large stretches of the river.

Big Wood River 

The Big Wood River (167cfs) has been a delight to fish this Fall, but in the upcoming week, we’ll see a switch to more seasonal October weather including rain, snow, wind with only occasional periods of sunshine. The daytime temperatures will only be in the 40s and 50s, severely limiting the dry fly presence within the system. Baetis are the real stars of the show at the moment, appearing in the afternoon for a few hours and then trickling out and Red Quills may be found during warmer afternoons. In the evenings it may be possible to find a good midge presence, which is a true indicator of the quickly approaching winter season. During this time of low insect activity, fish can still be enticed to bite with large attractor patterns. Wulffs, Trudes, H and L Variants, Hoppers and Stimulators are all reasonable choices as fish try to bulk up for the upcoming season. Overall, nymphing may be your best bet as fish tend to stay down low during stormy weather.

Silver Creek

Recently, there have been mixed results from the Creek, with most anglers reporting difficult conditions and spooky fish. Baetis, a recurring theme on local waters, are the favorite food source of rising trout with the Mahogany Dun a close second (particularly on sunnier afternoons). If there is a breeze strong enough to add wind-chop to the water’s surface, fish are more likely to take the fly as four months of fishing pressure have made the local Rainbows and Browns wary and leader shy. Hoppers are still an option here when the wind is up but less effective on calm days. The large Brown Trout will soon be moving onto the gravel as spawning season begins. If you encounter spawning beds, please keep your distance to ensure another season of world class trout!

Big Lost River

The Big Lost (354cfs) is a great destination in October. Even on fairly inclement days, Blue Winged Olives can be present in rather large sizes (size 16) along with significant midge emergences and a trickling of Tricos. Rainbows in the Lost, like Rainbows in the Wood, will be stocking up aggressively for winter. When fish are on the surface in the midday hours, present Hackle Stackers or Parachute BWOs with light tippet and drag free presentation. Before and after the heat of the hatch, try Pheasant Tail Nymphs (size 16) followed by Zebra Midges (size 18-22). Look for some of the larger fish in the skinniest water as you move from pocket to pocket.

Upper Big Lost / Copper Basin

The beautiful sunny days of summer and early fall are now behind us and along with the passing of these seasons goes the productive period of fishing in the Alpine region. The Alpine remains exceptionally scenic and if a day away from civilization is desired, try fishing large attractor patterns while covering good distances of river. You will see very few fishermen if you go “over the hill” and you will likely see very few fish. The lower one fishes in the system, the more luck one will have catching a fish.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise (304cfs) is transitioning to slower productivity, but Baetis patterns offered to risers can still deliver good results. In the afternoons, it is still possible to see late season PMDs (sizes 18), but nymphing is probably the best option for higher productivity. Patterns such as the Pheasant Tail, King Prince and Zebra Midge should be the first pick out of your fly box.

Salmon River

The Salmon continues to offer walk and wade fishermen excellent angling. Although few fish are coming to the surface, nymphing is producing very well between Stanley and Challis. King Prince and Prince Nymphs (size 12) trailed by each other or smaller midge imitators like the Zebra Midge (size 18-22) will produce high numbers of fish. Expect the majority of hookups to be Whitefish along with some Rainbows, Cutthroats, Cuttbows and Bull Trout. Although some anglers still hang on to a previously negative stigma of the “Whitey”, this indigenous fish is not only an indicator species for the remarkably healthy Salmon River, but also a pleasure to fight on a fly rod as they can often exceed 20 inches.

Synopsis

September continues to offer spectacular weather and excellent fishing. Currently, the Big Wood River is fishing very well as Tricos and Baetis make their concurrent appearance. Red Quills are also entering the picture as the sun warms the river system in the afternoons. Silver Creek is fishing nicely as the Callibaetis make their midday presence in significant numbers and the approach of the Mahogany Dun nears. The Big Lost River is on fire with an abundance of Tricos bouncing in the mornings and larger terrestrials present in the afternoons. The South Fork of the Boise is now flowing at 300cfs which lends itself to productive walk and wade angling. The Salmon River continues to fish exceedingly well with terrestrial/dropper rigs and double nymph setups. If fishing is your top autumn priority, now is the time to take advantage of the fine fishing before winter moves in and slows the productivity significantly.

Big Wood River

The Wood, like the other river systems in the Valley, is fishing well especially once the fall sunshine warms the air and water in the middle of the day. No need to wake early this time of year – the fish remain lethargic until the system warms, but when it does, trout are taking imitations with reckless abandon. Tricos are a challenging and exciting insect to imitate and when presented with little or no drag to surfacing fish, these bugs can lead to fantastic fishing. The small Baetis is also present on the Wood, as it has been for some time, and can be an excellent alternative for picky fish. The Red Quill, also known as the Hecuba, will be seen from midday into the late afternoon depending on daily weather and river section selection. This Green Drake-like mayfly is a real treat to throw and is hard to miss as it flutters above the water surface. All patterns from cripple emergers to duns can be effective and even the largest of rainbows will come to the surface for these tasty treats. Hoppers and October Caddis are also good selections for top water action which gives great relief to those tired of fishing Tricos.

Silver Creek

The Creek, on a warm September day, is as stunningly beautiful a fishing destination as any in the Continental U.S. The Callibaetis are thick from noontime into the afternoon offering top notch angling action whether with a dun or spinner pattern. The concurrent spinner fall/emergence leads to some aggressive takes by feisty ‘bows and browns as does nymphing. It is possible now to begin to see the Mahogany Dun in the afternoons on the Creek which are slightly larger than the Callibaetis (perhaps as large as #14s). This September visitor is as beautiful as any mayfly, offering a burgundy thorax buffeted by slate wings. Hoppers and other terrestrials are still very much worth casting when the mayfly action dwindles, especially on breezy days.

Big Lost River

The Lost (336cfs) may be the pick of the litter at the moment as the Trico action in the mornings is spectacular. Trout are rising to spinners and duns in the morning hours especially in the slicker pools and deeper holes. Soon the larger Blue Winged Olive will appear as well, but for now look to the little black and white mayflies as your prime morning choice. The afternoons will feature excellent nymphing opportunities. Try using a mayfly nymph (size 12-14) accompanied by a small Zebra Midge (size 20) and you should see first-class results. Terrestrials are still an afternoon option here as they are on most of our river systems, although their summer run is nearing its annual end.

Upper Big Lost / Copper Basin

The alpine streams which have produced so well this summer are beginning to revert toward their winter norms. Unfortunately, that means it is time to start looking downstream toward larger water, higher food source volume and slightly warmer water temperatures. One can still draw strikes with large attractor patterns and standard nymphing techniques, but because of the cold night time temperatures, one should plan the day around afternoon fishing. These beautiful headwater streams are no longer producing as they did through the summer months, but what a summer it was!

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise is now flowing at 300cfs. Drift boats are no longer necessary on this tail water, but the walk and wade fishing can be superb. Sight-fishing with Caddis, Parachute Adams and terrestrials is an excellent approach as many of the larger fish which have been hiding all summer are now visible and accessible. Stories of gargantuan rainbows and bull trout abound on this river and there may be no better time to stalk them than now.

Salmon River

One of the most overlooked stretches of river in our region in the Salmon River. Home to anadromous fish such as Steelhead and Chinook salmon, the Salmon is also home to Rainbows, Cutthroats, Cuttbows, Whitefish, Bull Trout, Brook Trout and Squawfish. It is not uncommon to catch multiple species in the same day, even in the same hole! Although fishing around Stanley can be fun, try the lower reaches of the river between Sunbeam Dam and Challis. Double nymph rigs, hopper/droppers and leach patterns can lead to a spectacular day’s angling on one of the most majestic freestones in the West.

Synopsis

September is a magical time to be fly fishing our local rivers – made even more enjoyable with cool mornings and warm afternoons. The weather has stabilized over the past week and looks to be very comfortable for the foreseeable future (except for a couple of midweek thunderstorms). The Big Wood will be heating up as the Red Quill begins to make its annual appearance and Silver Creek is fishing nicely with strong Baetis and Callibaetis in the midday and afternoons. The Big Lost is fishing well with Tricos and Baetis and the yearly run of Kokanees above the reservoir is in full swing. The alpine fishing will begin to subside with cool night time temperatures and the South Fork of the Boise is flowing at usual fall levels with some walk and wade opportunities. All in all, autumn fishing is picking up and as the leaves begin to turn yellow, fishing will enter its most beautiful season.

Big Wood River

The Big Wood (181cfs) is fishing well as the Baetis continue to be present from the later morning until the late afternoon. On average, the night time temperatures will be in the mid to high thirties which means that it is not necessary to begin fishing at the break of dawn but rather wait to fish until the warmth of the day. The Red Quill (Hecuba) has begun to appear on the Big Wood and is one of the most exciting insects of the entire year to throw. These Green Drake sized mayflies become a serious focus of rainbows as September presses on and are most abundant during the midday and afternoon hours. Patterns similar in appearance and size to the Green Drake will serve the angler well. Grasshoppers are still numerous and should be considered in the afternoons in addition to a mayfly nymph or zebra midge dropper. Rusty Spinners will be an excellent selection as well as October caddis which will also be an important pattern as one navigates the river system, so come well equipped with larger elk hair caddis patterns.

Silver Creek

The Creek is fishing very well, especially during the heat of the day. Baetis can be present in large numbers beginning around 9:30 or 10:00a and continue past noon. Don’t be surprised to find Tricos, sometimes in quite good numbers, spinning in the morning hours. The Callibaetis are the prime focus at the moment and are gathering in large numbers both on the still and moving water. If one pays close attention, it will be clear that there is not only a spinner fall of these speckle-winged mayflies but simultaneously an emergence. Cripple patterns along with duns are excellent choices until the spinners start drifting downstream. Mahogany Duns will appear anytime and are a treat to fish as the rainbows and browns rise to gulp this tasty insect. Expect to see these burgundy bugs during the middle of the day. Terrestrials, including ants, beetles and hoppers – especially on windy days – are always good options if the mayfly activity is less than intense.

Big Lost River

The Lost (309cfs) is flowing at a very fishable level. The September Trico fall is occurring with some periods of intense morning action. As is true with the Big Wood, the Big lost will also offer some good Baetis fishing. Nymphing does tend to be the most productive technique both above and below the reservoir. If the top water action is minimal, try prince nymphs and zebra midges. Egg patterns and San Juan worms may find some response as the Kokanee continue their spawning run. It is still worth skating Craneflies even if they are not present on the water as fish are accustomed to them and might still take a swipe.

Upper Big Lost / Copper Basin

The alpine fishing generally begins to wane in the beginning of September, as the nightly low temperatures approach freezing. As the water temperatures drop, especially higher up in the system, the insect activity dwindles, lessening the available food sources and forcing the fish to move downstream. Therefore, it would be wise to try fishing lower in the system whether in the East Fork or the mainstream proper. Cold morning temperatures will mean a later start to the daily activity so plan accordingly. Attractor patterns such as flying ants, beetles, trudes and wolfs in addition to elk hair caddis and Parachute Adams will bring fish to the surface. When all else fails, nymphs dredged through the remaining deep pockets should produce nicely.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise is flowing at its September norm of 601cfs. The upper section of the river below Anderson reservoir is floatable but below Indian Rock the river is too dangerous to drift. Try to walk and wade this section of the river using a combination of Pink Alberts, Parachute Adams, caddis, Baetis, hoppers and a variety of nymphs. Streamers can be effective, especially if fished in a quartering down fashion in the direction of the banks.

Salmon River

The Salmon continues to fish very well below Stanley. Attractor patterns such as large caddis, stimulators and terrestrials, when coupled with droppers such as King Prince nymphs, caddis pupae and zebra midges are producing very well. The Chinook Salmon run is essentially over with a few stragglers remaining on their Redds, but most of these beautiful giants have died and been absorbed back into the ecosystem. Is it too early to start talking about spring steelheading?

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Synopsis

September has arrived with more of the unpredictable weather that has defined our summer season. The upcoming week should offer some sunshine and warm temperatures accompanied by possible thunderstorms. Seasoned anglers know this time of year to bring along a favorite rain slicker, as it may or may not be called upon to protect you from possible afternoon rain. Either way – it pays to be prepared! Dry fly fishing will be very good over the next six weeks, depending on weather, with the active hatch windows being short but productive. Baetis, October Caddis, Red Quills, Callibaetis and Mahogany Duns highlight this period as we move toward late fall. Hit the rivers and get the goods while you can!

Big Wood River

The Wood (195cfs) will offer very good fishing over the next few weeks. With the emergence of the Red Quill, the Green Drake’s autumn cousin, dry fly fishing with large patterns can be as good as any time of the year. There are many excellent imitations offered in the store, but if you search through your fly box for any leftover Green Drake patterns, you’ll be glad you did. Any large (size 12) dun patterns which are on the green/grey/rust side of the color spectrum will serve the fly caster well, especially if fished in the middle of the day. It will also be effective to use Baetis as they will appear in the late morning and continue on and off through the late afternoon. A very good backup pattern will be the October Caddis which will appear sporadically throughout the system and has the ability to pull even the most selective fish off the bottom. Grasshoppers are still very much present in the watershed and can be combined with a dropper to elicit strikes from subsurface feeders.

Silver Creek

Silver Creek offers a number of solid opportunities for the September Fisherman. Baetis play a key role and fish will focus on them, aggressively in some circumstances. The usual downstream presentation is necessary with these petite mayflies and one may find them blanketing The Creek in the morning and into the midday. Callibaetis fished on the surface, especially in the wind chop, will be very effective in early September as well as the nymph stage fished motionlessly underneath. If fish are refusing the subtler presentations, try casting and retrieving with one to two inch strips. This can often convince fish to strike. The Mahogany Dun will also be making an appearance on these spring creek waters. The Mahoganies, generally in size 16, are one of the most beautiful insects we have the privilege of casting over the course of the year. These burgundy, grey winged mayflies are serious trout food and the fish will become less selective as October nears. Hoppers, during midday, continue to be a smart selection, especially fished in their mature size (12s and 10s).

Big Lost River

The Big Lost, flowing at 354cfs, is fishing well. Tricos will continue to be prevalent in stretches, primarily in the morning hours. Craneflies are also still fluttering about as the summer ends and can be an enjoyable selection when skated across the surface in a quartering-down fashion. Nymphing will be the most productive tackle here and double nymph/pupa combinations can lead to an excellent day’s fishing. Baetis will be an active fish attractor as well. The Kokanee are running above the reservoir which adds an interesting twist to a day of pursuing trout. Don’t overlook these scarlet targets; they put up a very good fight!

Upper Big Lost / Copper Basin

The alpine feeder streams of the Big Lost drainage are still fishing well but will be declining as night time temperatures decrease. Attractor patterns such as Wulffs, Trudes and Madam Xs are finding fish as well as Black Flying Ants, Grasshoppers and Parachute Adams. Crowds are dwindling in the higher elevation which creates miles of elbow room for the adventurous fisherman. Even in September, it continues to be worth the dirt road drive.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise was dropped to 601cfs on September 1st and is now at very good walk and wade levels. Baetis will be a prime pattern as fish stock up for their late-fall and wintertime pseudo-hibernations. Caddis will be on the menu as well and streamer fishing still presents the angler with opportunities at a truly gargantuan rainbow and bull trout.

Salmon River

The Salmon is fishing as well as any local river currently. Caddis patterns are bringing fish to the surface and the droppers hung beneath are resulting in some very happy fishermen downstream of Stanley. Recently, Idaho Fish and Game counted 230 Red Chinook salmon in the one mile stretch between the Redfish Hatchery and the Buckhorn Bridge. It is a spectacular sight to witness, rivaling the spawning grounds of Alaska. If you are fortunate, you may even spot a Sockeye headed upriver as some fish have been seen passing Redfish Lake Creek on their way to Petit or Alturas Lake. Did I mention the majestic fall views?