“At times I have wished life as simple as this riverbank — the world a logical structure of bend, current, riffle, and pool, the drama already unfolding on the glassy surface, and me, here on the bank, armed with some simple lovely balanced tools and some knowledge, prepared to become part of it for a few moments.”
– Nick Lyons
Simplify your life by doing something you love — go fly fishing!
Silver Creek
This August will start with a cool down, which should help the escalating water temps on the Creek. The Trico action on the Creek is in full swing; however, don’t be surprised if the hatch diminishes in intensity as we move into the middle of the month. Be sure you have a long leader to 6X or 7X along with Trico and Baetis spinners in size 22 and 24. The fish are very selective at this stage of the hatch and a perfect drift matched with the right fly are a must. During the middle of the day, Damsels and Callibaetis are the main fare. Also, hoppers, beetles, and ants are a good option. Remember, while fishing in the Preserve, you are required to sign in. This can be done via your phone with the QR code posted at all access points or by texting “Visitor” to (833) 593-0682.
Big Wood
Fishing in the Wood remains challenging. Overall, there are fewer large fish; however, persistent anglers are finding a few. As the water drops and warms this time of year, angler’s need to adapt to the changing conditions. The trout adapt; they move from the deeper runs to find oxygen, food, and protection from predators. Because of this, the same water types that held fish in the early season are no longer as productive. Furthermore, the big bugs that turned trout in June and July will no longer as the most abundant insects shrink; in short, it is time to downsize your flies.
The Upper Lost
The East Fork above Wildhorse is getting low. There are still fish, but the holes are far and few between. If you like to hike and fish, this is a good place to go. Below the North Fork the water is still pushy, but very fishable at this point. Remember, when you do find fish, they will be opportunistic feeders and a well presented hopper or other attractor pattern will turn fish on the first cast. Setting the hook properly can be the difference between a good day and a bad. Nymphing is also a good way to search the deeper pools and fast runs.
The Lost Below Mackay
The flows are still all over the map. As of today they are up to 425 CFS. This is high for all but the most experienced wade fisherman. If you go, there are Tricos hatching, but it is slow to get going. PMDs, Yellow Sallies, and Baetis are also present throughout the morning into the early afternoon. With persistence, dry fly anglers can find rising fish; however, nymphing is the most productive.
Salmon
The Salmon river is a fun option to beat the heat of August. However, check water temps as we are getting towards dangerously warm water levels in the late afternoon. As always, big foam patterns are still bringing fish to the surface and general nymphs work just fine, especially on white fish. If you are finding stubborn fish, try a smaller dry. A basic mayfly pattern, like an Adam’s, should do the trick!
South Fork of the Boise
Flows remain at 1200 CFS. Drifting is still your best option with a few spots to wade along the roadside. Expect a few straggling Salmon flies as well as Pink Alberts. Cicadas and Morman Crickets are a good option as well. In the evening, the caddis flies take the stage.
Local Ponds
Lake Creek Pond, Penny lake, and Gaver’s Lagoon have been stocked and will receive regular stockings throughout the summer season. The Penny Lake algae bloom has cleared a bit and fishing is possible now.
Big Wood: Chubby Chernobyl | Juicy Stone | Duracell | Bullet French Nymph | Rain Drop Jigs | Maktima UV Jig | San Juan Worm | Pat’s Rubber Legs | Bishop’s Dynamite | Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive
Silver Creek: Tricos | Callibaetis | PMDs | Baetis | Damsels | Crane Flies | Green Drakes | Bullet French Nymph | DB Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive | Pine Squirrel Leech
Salmon: Chubby Chernobyl | Juicy Stone | Duracell | Bullet French Nymph | Rain Drop Jigs | Maktima UV Jig | Pat’s Rubber Legs | Bishop’s Dynamite
Big Lost Flies: Chubby Chernobyl | Juicy Stone | Duracell | Bullet French Nymph | Rain Drop Jigs | Maktima UV Jig | San Juan Worm | Pat’s Rubber Legs | Bishop’s Dynamite | Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive
South Fork of the Boise: Chubby Chernobyl | Juicy Stone | Deep Cleaner | Duracell | Bullet French Nymph | Rain Drop Jigs | Maktima UV Jig | San Juan Worm | Pat’s Rubber Legs
| Silver Creek | 107 cfs |
| Big Wood | 235 cfs |
| The Lost Below Mackay | 379 cfs |
| Salmon | 737 cfs |
| South Fork of the Boise | 1220 cfs |
