“Trout and salmon use a calibration of light, magnetism, and the scent of water to find their way home. People use memories and dreams. Both get lost sometimes.”
– Mark Hume
As you find your way home this holiday season, make some new memories with the rivers and people you dream with.
Silver Creek
There are only a few days left to fish the Creek above Kilpatrick Bridge, as the Preserve closes to fishing at the end of November. However, fishing downstream of Kilpatrick Bridge will remain open until the end of March. With cooler weather settling over the Valley, the fishing window is short. In the late afternoon, you may observe some hatch activity and a few fish feeding. Expect primarily midges. 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.
Big Wood
If you seek a restful retreat this holiday season beyond simply watching football, the Big Wood River offers the perfect escape. Access is easy right now, as the valley hasn’t yet seen a significant amount of snowfall. And there’s no rush to head out early, as the prime fishing time is from noon to around three in the afternoon. When you go, look for fish holding in classic winter holding 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. Keep in mind that when it is cold outside the trout are not aggressive and the takes can be very subtle. When in doubt, set the hook. Also, consider using a Ketchum Release tool to keep your hands dry and warm, while ensuring the fish stay wet and happy.
South Fork of the Boise
If you’re heading to the South Fork, make sure to bring a winter survival kit: chains, a sleeping bag, and plenty of food and water. Winter weather is in the forecast, and the roads can be slippery in the canyon. For fishing, you might find a decent dry fly window when the sun is overhead. However, nymphing—whether Euro-style or with a dry dropper—is the most effective method for targeting both trout and whitefish.
The Lost Below Mackay
Trail Creek Pass is currently closed, so you’ll need to go through Carey and over to Arco to reach Mackay. The flows are at 75 CFS, which makes the fish more cautious and concentrated. Be stealthy and patient for the best chance of success. You can expect some Baetis, but primarily midges will be hatching in the late afternoon. If you spot surface activity, use long leaders, down to 6X or 7X, and small flies. Nymphing is the most productive approach right now, so try a small beaded midge or Baetis beneath a dry fly or small indicator.
Silver Creek: Midge | Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive | Small Pheasant Tails | Streamers
Big Wood: Midge | Perdigones | King Prince | Streamers
Big Lost: Baetis | Midge | Rubber Legged Stones | King Prince | Streamers
South Fork of the Boise: Baetis | Midge | Caddis Larva | Stoneflies | Flashback Pheasant Tails | Streamers
| Silver Creek | 103 cfs |
| Big Wood | 158 cfs |
| The Lost Below Mackay | 65 cfs |
| Salmon | 1080 cfs |
| South Fork of the Boise | 279 cfs |
