Photo: @ Sofia DeWolfe
“If you do not know which port you are seeking, no wind is favorable.”
– Seneca
Anglers who feel adrift are usually the ones who focus on results rather than process.
The Big Wood
The Wood and all its tributaries are closed until May 23rd. Flows on the Wood have been up and down since March, peaking over 900 CFS in Early April. The early runoff could make for very fishable flows come opening weekend. Stay tuned and follow this report for updates as we get closer to the opener.
South Fork of the Boise
Like the Wood, the South Fork is closed until May 23rd.
Silver Creek
The Nature Conservancy and Kilpatrick Pond are closed for the season and will reopen on May 23rd. However, Silver Creek from the Highway 20 bridge to its confluence with the Little Wood remains open. This is a great walk and wade option and the afternoon Baetis hatch has been strong. Some anglers have reported seeing PMDs on the warm days. Of course, slow drifting nymphs under a bobber or swinging lightly weighted streamers is productive.
Big Lost below Mackay
Trail Creek Pass remains closed; however, the drive to the Lost through Arco is worth the trek from Ketchum and back. The flows are holding around 70 CFS, but may come up as demands for irrigation increase. Hatch wise, expect a combination of midge and Baetis. Bring a good selection of midge in sizes 18-22 and Baetis in size 16-18 both dry and wet. You will see spawning trout in the shallow riffles so please wade with caution and let them be.
Upper Salmon Steelhead
While the steelhead season closes on the Upper Salmon at the end of this month, this fishing opportunity has run its course for the year. Looking forward to next year!
Stillwater
This is a good time to go explore a local reservoir. Check out Mackay, the Little Wood, or Magic if you are looking for a solitary fishing experience. You might also consider a trip to Duck Valley outside of Mountain Home. Pick a day when the winds are at a minimum and try suspending chironomids or pulling leeches on a sinking line.
Silver Creek: Baetis 20-24 | Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive | Small Pheasant Tails | Streamers
Big Lost: Baetis 18,20 | Midge 20-24 | Streamers
Stillwater: Balance Leeches | Sheep Creek Special | Woolly Buggers | Seal Buggers | Chironomids | Damsel Nymphs | Prince Nymphs
| Silver Creek | 110 cfs |
| Big Wood | 772 cfs |
| Big Lost Below Mackay | 81 cfs |
| South Fork of the Boise | 314 cfs |
| Salmon | 1830 cfs |
