“Weather forecast for tonight: dark.”
– George Carlin
There is no certainty in water flow forecasting, but the Natural Resources Conservation Service is predicting normal streamflows for the upcoming season. This means the freestone rivers in the region will be high through June but coming into shape in early July. So, here is the definitive fishing forecast for the upcoming season: go as often as you can.
The Big Wood and South Fork of the Boise
Both are closed for the season but will reopen May 24th.
Silver Creek and Little Wood
There are new regulations on the Creek allowing for year round angling. Silver Creek from the Highway 20 bridge to its confluence with the Little Wood is now open year-round. Also, the Little Wood in the Bear Track Williams area is worth a look. Flows can go off color as low altitude snow melts, but this is a great option for those looking for fishing close to home. If you go, you may find surface activity during the pleasant part of the day; however, slow drifting suspended nymph or swinging a lightly weighted bugger off the bank, over the shallow shelves, and through the buckets is the best approach.
The Lost Below Mackay
Flows are steady at 84 CFS and this fishery is open year round. Now that the days are longer, it is worth the drive through Arco and up to Mackay. Look for a combination of midge and Baetis hatching in the afternoon. Take a good selection of midge in sizes 18-22 and Baetis in size 16-18 both dry and wet. Some fish are spawning in the shallow riffles, so please wade with caution and leave them alone.
Upper Salmon Steelhead
The Sawtooth and Pahsimeroi Fish Hatcheries are reporting decent returns and the fishing has been good. Keep in mind that this is a popular spring activity and there are plenty of anglers up and down the river. Also, feeder streams like Valley and Basin will go off color as temperatures rise, so keep your eyes on flows if you decide to go. If you are interested, come on into the shop for the latest reports and to check our full selection of steelhead flies.
Stillwater
There is still ice on many of the local reservoirs but it is beginning to recede. Once the ice is off, they will be worth a visit. Keep Mackay, the Little Wood, and Magic on your radar. You might also consider a trip to Duck Valley as the weather starts to improve.
Silver Creek: Midge | Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive | Small Pheasant Tails | Streamers
Big Lost: Baetis | Midge | Rubber Legged Stones | King Prince | Streamers
Stillwater: Balance Leeches | Sheep Creek Special | Woolly Buggers | Seal Buggers | Chironomids |
Damsel Nymphs | Prince Nymphs
| Silver Creek | 192 cfs |
| Big Wood | 308 cfs |
| The Lost Below Mackay | 84 cfs |
| Salmon | 653 cfs |
| South Fork of the Boise | 613 cfs |
