Fly Fishing Forecast
August 16-23

Photo Credit: Bob Knoebel

We are a couple weeks away from meteorological fall and over a month until the September equinox. Students are heading off to college, the ore wagon is parked on the street, a smattering of golden leaves are quaking among the green: these are all signs that fall is coming. The best way to experience the change of seasons is to stand still as a heron beside a river, rod in hand.

Silver Creek

Now that warm weather has returned, the Tricos have as well. This may be the last week of strong Trico action as this hatch will begin to fade as we head into September. The morning activity is a nice mix of Tricos, Baetis, Callibaetis, and depending on your location you may even find some PMDs. We are late in the hatch cycle, so bring your “A” game. When the hatch subsides, expect the wind to pick up. This is perfect for hopper and damsel fishing. In the evening, caddis, PMDs, and a ton of mosquitoes take the stage. While reports have been mixed, trout are spreading throughout the Preserve.

Big Wood

We are very fortunate to have such robust flows heading into the second half of August. That said, wading is still pushy; this is a good year to invest in a wading staff. Reports suggest that there are plenty of healthy small trout to be found and a handful of larger trout for persistent anglers. Bugwise, Tricos, caddis, Pinks, spruce moths, and small crane flies can be found throughout the day.

Warm Springs

While the flows are getting low, fishing is still decent. Beginners can find success around the bridges for stocked fish and seasoned anglers can find a challenge looking for wild fish off the beaten path.

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. Reports have been mixed and the big fish can be hard to find. Still, there are plenty of whitefish to keep you busy. Try hoppers along the banks. Expect Pink Alberts during the afternoon and a variety of caddis both early and late.

The Upper Lost

The East Fork above Wildhorse is getting low, but stealthy anglers are still finding success. Below Wildhorse and the North Fork confluences, fishing remains consistent. The cool evenings have pushed the bug activity to the middle of the day. Hoppers are a great option, but will often receive a short strike. Smaller bugs and a careful presentation are a must. You will find the same bugs here as the Wood.

Big Lost below Mackay

The flows below the dam remain high at 650 CFS making wading very difficult. There are a few spots where an angler can wet a line, but access is very limited. These high flows are going to continue until the reservoir is drained and repairs can be made on the gates.

Salmon River

The Salmon continues to shine despite the pressure from anglers. The warm weather has brought the Spruce Moths back in the mornings and hoppers are a good option in the afternoon. Floaters are still finding enough water on the lower river and adventurous anglers can find good walk and wade opportunities up and down the river.

Local Ponds

Penny Lake, Heagle Park Pond, Lake Creek, and Gaver’s Lagoon have all been recently stocked. If you are looking for a fun spot to have a family picnic and catch a few fish, give these a go.

Silver Creek: Callibeatis | Tricos | Beatis | PMD | Damsel Nymphs/Dry | Caddis | Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive  | Small Pheasant Tails 

Big Wood and Warm Springs: Pink Alberts | PMD | Caddis | Crane Flies | Perdigons | Bishop’s Dynamite | Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive | Chubby Chernobyl

Salmon: Chubby Chernobyl | Golden Stones | Spruce Moths | Pat’s Rubber Legs | Bishop’s Dynamite | Prince Nymph

South Fork of the Boise: Chubby Chernobyl | Pink Alberts | Caddis | Crane Fly | Duracell | Bullet French Nymph | Perdigons | San Juan Worm | Pat’s Rubber Leg Stone