“Many of us would probably be better fishermen if we did not spend so much time watching and waiting for the world to become perfect.”
– Norman Maclean
Don’t wait for the high pressure to shift, the inversion to lift, the storm to abate, or the wind to hush. No matter the conditions, the river awaits your presence.
Silver Creek
Mild temperatures persist in the region and the fishing has been very good on the lower Creek. If you go, search for subtle sipping trout. Observe the rise form closely to determine if they are surface feeding on adult midge or in the film on emergers. If you don’t find feeding trout, try nymphing with midge patterns or swing a leech. Remember, the Nature Conservancy is closed for the season; however, downstream of Kilpatrick Bridge remains open until the end of March and from the Highway 20 bridge through Point of Rocks to the confluence of the Little Wood is open year round.
The Big Wood
Hopefully, we will see some inclement weather during the second half of February which should trigger some fantastic winter midge activity. Even with the mild daytime temps, the mornings have been chilly, so don’t bother hitting the river until around 11 or 12. As for flies, keep it simple. A collection of small beaded midge patterns, midge dries, and a few larger stone fly nymphs should suffice. Many fish this time of year will be feeding just beneath the surface. If you see this behavior, try a non beaded midge trailed behind a high vis dry with light tippet to fool these savvy trout.
Big Lost below Mackay
For those seeking a full day fishing excursion, the Lower Lost River is a good option. With Trail Creek Pass closed, the drive takes a little over two hours through Arco and up to the town of Mackay. With the low flows, the trout will be concentrated in the deep runs below dancing water. You will find a few midge hatching late in the day and a handful of trout feeding on them; however, nymphing with small flies and light tippet is most productive.
South Fork of the Boise
The South Fork in February and March can be fantastic. This is another worthwhile trek from Ketchum if you are looking to spend the day fishing. It is advisable to have a 4-wheel drive and chains to make it down and back out of the canyon as the road can be slick. While fishing, seek the slow deep runs and scan the seams for subtle rises before the sun dips below the canyon rim. If you can find surface feeders, try small midge imitations matched with a stonefly nymph beneath an indicator. There are plenty of white fish to keep your rod bent as well.
Silver Creek: Baetis 20-24 | Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive | Small Pheasant Tails | Streamers
Big wood: Baetis 20,22 | Midge 22,24 | Small Perdigones | King Prince | Streamers
Big Lost: Baetis 18,20 | Midge 20-24 | Streamers
South Fork of the Boise: Baetis | Midge | Rubber Legged Stones | Zebra Midge | Caddis Larva | Flashback Pheasant Tails | Streamers
| Silver Creek | 98.3 cfs |
| Big Wood | 169 cfs |
| Big Lost Below Mackay | 67 cfs |
| South Fork of the Boise | 304 cfs |
