“Those who fish get to know and understand a river in a way few others can.”
– W. D. Wetherell
What does it mean to know and understand a river? Does it mean one knows each riffle, each seam, each bucket, or each trout by name? Does it mean understanding the cyclical nature of bugs and their importance to the trout, the birds, and the spiders? Could it also mean that during the turn of seasons an angler comes to understand the impact of changing water flows and temperatures? Or is it simply that once you know and understand one river you find something familiar in them all? Ultimately, those who fish understand vicissitude, constancy, and paradox. Perhaps that is what it means to know a river.
Silver Creek
The late mornings are still producing a smattering of Tricos and Baetis spinners and very light angler pressure; however, the Creek is transitioning into a fall fishery. Anglers will find some Callibaetis activity starting between noon and two. Be sure to have a good selection of Callibaetis patterns (size 16 and 18) in multiple stages of this insect’s life. Our House of Harrop Calibaetis patterns are simply the best match for these picky feeders. The Callibaetis emergence usually coincides with the afternoon breezes which can actually be to the angler’s benefit as the larger fish lose all inhibitions. Also keep in mind, Callibaetis are a slow water bug and will be found in good numbers in the Pond. It will not be long and we will also start seeing Mahogany Duns, it would be wise to have a few already in your box. And if the wind blows, hopper fishing can be fantastic.
The Big Wood
The Wood had a good influx of cooler water after the rain and the tinge of color has cleared. As we return to stable weather, the surface activity should really pick up. Hopefully, the bugs of fall, Baetis and Hecubas, will gain momentum and begin hatching with more regularity. In the meanwhile, enjoy the spectacular weather we are having and perhaps the last chance to wet wade for the season. For flies, have a good selection of hoppers, caddis, Red Quills, parachute Baetis, larger beaded nymphs, as well as the usual small nymphs for the selective feeders. Remember, the fish are mostly holding in the seams, the tail outs, and at the head of the runs.
Warm Springs and Trail Creek
Both are small creek fishing at its finest. When seeking wild trout, remember to be stealthy and make the first cast count. As always, there are some stocked fish at the easy access points.
Salmon River
Wade fishing is fantastic up and down the river. No need to go too early as these fish tend to feed during the most pleasant time of day. Pick a run and search the shallows and seams with dries and dry dropper rigs. Then work the riffles with nymph rigs and streamers.
South Fork of the Boise
While most rivers are dropping, the South Fork is going up. The flows are still better for floating than wading. Anglers are finding success with Pink Alberts, Caddis and Baetis. Those finding the most success are using the boat as transportation and parking the boat to work a riffle or side channel. When you find feeding fish, they are very picky and require multiple presentations to fool. This is not something a passing boat drift can accomplish.
Upper Lost Drainage
With the days getting shorter there is no reason to start early on the Upper Lost. Wait for the sun to start warming the air and water. Once you hear hoppers clicking, it is time to fish. Search the water with a terrestrial (hopper or ant) dropper rig and you should find decent numbers of small wild fish and a few decent size fish as well. It won’t be long before we start seeing some Red Quills. These bugs prefer cloudy days, so keep your eye on the forecast.
The Lost Below Mackay
The flows are finally coming down and are under 350 CFS. As demands for water decrease, the flows may go even lower. The fishing may be a tad off until the flows stabilize. Baetis start hatching as soon as the sun hits the water and can last until the early afternoon. There are still decent numbers Tricos in the mix as well, but this hatch is starting to dwindle. After 2 PM on sunny days most of the feeding stops until the sun goes down and on cloudy days the action never really lets up. With the high angler pressure these fish have seen, you need to really be on your game to fool these trout. Long leaders to 6X and diminutive flies are a must.
Local Ponds
All the ponds have been recently stocked. Drop on by before you take your family fishing and we will make sure you have the right gear to be successful.
South Fork of the Boise: Pink Alberts | Chubby Chernobyl | Iron Lotus | SRS Bullet French Nymph | Duracell Jig 12-18 | Jake’s Perdigon 14-18 | Tungsten Nemec Stone | Pat’s Rubber Legs | Stone Daddy 8 | Bishop’s Dynamite | DB Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive | King Prince
Silver Creek: Tricos | Callibaetis | Baetis | Griffiths Gnats | Parachute Midge | Iron Lotus | SRS Bullet French Nymph | Jake’s Perdigon 14-18 | DB Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive
Big Lost, Big Wood and Tributaries: Tricos | Beatis | Purple Haze | Elk Hair Caddis | Golden Stone | Pats Rubber Legs | Buggers | Chubby Chernobyl’s | Bishop’s Dynamite | SRS Bullet French Nymph | Jake’s Perdigon | King Prince Nymph | Zebra Midge
| Silver Creek Big Wood The Big Lost South Fork of the Boise Salmon River |
168 cfs 263 cfs 306 cfs 1440 cfs 1060 cfs |
