“You can teach a student a lesson for a day; but if you can teach him to learn by creating curiosity, he will continue the learning process as long as he lives.”
– Clay P. Bedford
The metaphor is the same whether it is fishing or learning. The key is to continuously feed your curiosity. If you are ready to begin the process of learning to fly fish or just need a refresher before getting back out on the water, then our Fly Fishing 101 class is for you! This three-hour class covers the basics including fly tackle, knots, trout behavior, reading water, aquatic insects, fly selection, and fly casting. It is the perfect class for lifelong learners.
Silver Creek
The better part of the Brown Drake hatch has come and gone for the season. You should carry some Drake patterns in your box, however, as there is a chance of a few more duns or spinners at odd times in the lower reaches of the Creek. The Creek will fall into its typical early summer pattern over the next week, with a mix of PMDs, Baetis, and Callibaetis. Hatch time will be dependent on air and water temps, but expect it to be during the most pleasant time of the day. With the low water and bright conditions, stealth is key to your success. It is time to lighten your tippet and lengthen your leaders.
The Big Wood
Flows are heading back up this week now that a warmer weather pattern has returned. This should be the last surge of runoff before the flows begin to drop. In the meanwhile, fishing can be done in places where the river braids. Best not to wade or even attempt to cross at these flows, however. If you do find some fishable water, big bugs and streamers will entice trout.
Big Lost below Mackay
The flows are bouncing up and down and in general remain too high for safe wading. Once flows hit 350 CFS strong waders can make their way around the river; however, at 500 CFS and above, fishing access is limited and wading difficult to impossible.
Upper Big Lost
Much like the Wood, flows are climbing again. The wild flowers are spectacular, so a trip to the upper reaches of the Lost is worthwhile. Might as well take a picnic and pack a rod in case you find some soft water.
Salmon
Flows dropped to under 2,500 CFS, but are climbing again. There have been a few Salmon flies fluttering about. It shouldn’t be long and this fishery will be ready for floaters and wade fishers alike.
South Fork of the Boise
The flows have bumped again up to just above 2200 CFS. This is still floatable for experts, but limits access for wade fishermen. The fishing has been fair with large stonefly patterns and streamers. Be on the watch for the Salmon fly hatch and caddis in the evening.
Stillwater
Mackay, Little Wood, and Magic reservoirs are all fishing well. You can fish from the bank, a tube, or a boat. Multiple methods work this time of year from pulling leeches or suspending buzzers. If floating, be aware that the afternoon winds are particularly strong this time of year so please exercise common sense.
Silver Creek: Caddies | Baetis | PMDs | Midge | Terrestrials | Zebra Midge in black, red, or olive | Small Pheasant Tails | Streamers
Big Lost: Caddis | PMDs | Golden Stoneflies | Midge | Rubber Legged Stones | King Prince | Streamers
Salmon: Chubby Chernobyl | Rubber Legged Stones | King Prince | Streamers
South Fork of the Boise: Salmon Flies | Caddis | Baetis | PMDs | Midge | Rubber Legged Stones | King Prince | Streamers
Stillwater: Balance Leeches | Sheep Creek Special | Woolly Buggers | Seal Buggers | Chironomids | Damsel Nymphs | Prince Nymphs
| Silver Creek | 107 cfs |
| Big Wood | 987 cfs |
| The Lost Below Mackay | 637 cfs |
| Salmon | 2680 cfs |
| South Fork of the Boise | 1620 cfs |
