Photo By: Alex Long
“Blessed is he who expects nothing, for he shall never be disappointed.”
– Alexander Pope
If you came to the Valley expecting to ski, don’t be disappointed. The fishing is excellent right now.
Silver Creek
The days are numbered for those wishing to fish the Creek above Kilpatrick Bridge; the Preserve closes to fishing on the last day of November. Fortunately, the fishing downstream of Kilpatrick Bridge through the Point of Rocks remains open year round. The jetstream is finally bringing cooler air to the Valley, making the fishing window brief. In the late afternoon, you may observe some hatch activity and a few fish feeding, primarily on midge. Small nymphs and dries, paired with fine tippet, are essential. Streamers can also be an effective option. The browns are mostly done spawning, but please avoid wading on redds until the end of March.
The Big Wood
The Wood is the perfect place to spend a few hours fishing. Access is a cinch, as the valley hasn’t seen much snowfall. No need to head out early, as the prime fishing time is from noon until the sun dips behind the ridge. Look for fish holding in classic winter water, slow and deep.You may see a few midges hatching and some surface feeders, but nymphing with small midge patterns is the most effective technique. Remember, when it is cold outside the takes can be very subtle, so be keen to set the hook on the slightest aberration to the indicator. To keep your hands dry and warm consider using a Ketchum Release tool and always release the fish immediately back to the water.
Big Lost Below Mackay
Trail Creek Pass is closed, but if you have an entire day to spend fishing, the trek through Carey and over to Arco to reach Mackay is worth the trip. The flows are low at 50 CFS, which concentrates the trout to the best holding water. Approach the buckets with stealth for the best chance of success. You may find some Baetis, but primarily midge will be hatching late in the day. Nymphing is the most productive approach right now, so try a small beaded midge or Baetis beneath a dry fly or small indicator.
South Fork of the Boise
Wintery weather is in the forecast, and the roads can be treacherous in the canyon. Make sure to bring chains, a sleeping bag, and plenty of food and water. For fishing, you might find a decent dry fly window when the sun is on the water. However, nymphing is the most effective method for targeting both trout and whitefish.
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 | 91.5 cfs |
| Big Wood | 155 cfs |
| Big Lost Below Mackay | 46.8 cfs |
| South Fork of the Boise | 309 cfs |
