As we move into our second week of the month, the fishing should prove steady. Our weather patterns will be less predictable, so be prepared for anything. If you find the water a bit stained or off color from the recent rain, don’t hesitate to nymph with Princes or Pheasant Tails. Changing weather patterns bring hatch patterns that require the angler to be on their toes and ready for anything. Be prepared for Baetis, Callibaetis, Caddis, Red Quills and Mahogany Duns, as well as more of the terrestrials that frequent the banks. Keep those Hoppers, Beetles and Flying Ants at the ready.

Silver Creek

Silver Creek will offer some excellent opportunities for the patient angler who can change from one pattern to the next with the weather. Look for the late morning emergence of Baetis and keep in mind that these fish are coming off of a very busy week with plenty of angling pressure. When you have identified a fish, take your time and focus on your best offering. Time the rise and try to get into the fish’s rhythm when you present the fly. Another fun and less technical option is the Callibaetis fished on breezy afternoons on choppy water. Because of the weather patterns and the in and out passage of cloud cover, keep in mind these fish may be hunkered down and a bit nervous at times. Look towards the banks for opportunities to fish terrestrials. This time of year the average hopper pattern may not produce as well, try stopping by the shop to pick up some flies known to “stand out” from the average pattern.

Big Wood River

The Wood can really come into its own as the month progresses. Try not to over-think pattern selection and keep the larger Parachute Adams (size 12) in mind when searching for fish. Although the recent rain in the valley can suppress a significant hatch, the fish will still be looking for feeding opportunities in the right water. Search the slower pockets and seams with confidence. On a freestone river like the Big Wood, you have to train your eyes to look for those rising noses. When you see them, give them a tender presentation and you will be rewarded. If the weather returns to warm breezy afternoons, the hopper will still be the ticket.

Big Lost River

For those anglers who have been holding out to fish the Big Lost in wadable flows, it is your time. During the mornings, the Tricos will make a showing for some steady dry fly opportunities. Don’t forget to have a Craneflies in the box as they are still a fun way to fish “lazily” by swinging and skating them around. For best results, get your strike indicators and nymph rigs out and dredge some of those deeper runs. As expected, the Prince Nymph and Pheasant Tails are most productive.

Upper Big Lost/Copper Basin

There’s something about getting out of town and driving up over Trail Creek Summit. If you enjoy solitude, this is the place this week. At only 45 minutes away, it is a great option for some quality Cutthroat, Rainbow, Brook and Cuttbow fishing. The usual general attractors (Royal Wulffs, small Stimulators, Parachute Adams) will still do well, but try a dropper and watch what happens. I like the smaller (size 18) Brassies, zebra Midges and green Copper Johns. Please be cautious when walking through the willows in the Lost River region and keep an eye out for the occasional moose. Stay clear and give Mother Nature her space.

South Fork of the Boise

With comfortable flows for wading, it is a wonderful time to be on the SFB. If you have your choice and can do it, try focusing on the late afternoon and evenings with Pink Alberts and Flavs (sizes 14-16). The early day will give you a chance to put the big nymph (Stonefly nymphs sizes 6-10) with a Pheasant Tail dropper (sizes 14-18) for some good indicator fishing. It is never a bad time to fish for the large Bull Trout with streamers, try Double Bunnies and String Leeches.

Salmon River

If you want a visual treat, go north and view the Chinook Salmon, one of the most amazing species on our planet, as they stage and spawn in upper stretches of the Salmon River. While you are in the region, check downstream for some incredible Cutthroat fishing. Here you will find some eager fish aggressively taking attractors like the PMX’s, Stimulators and Trudes (sizes 10-14). If things are slow in the morning, put on a dropper and you should see some increased action.

Fly fishing the Northern Rockies in September is an extremely enjoyable experience. With the heat of summer mostly behind us, the shorter days and cooler temperatures bring out new hatches and a return to larger insects such as the Western Red Quill, the Mahogany Dun and October Caddis. The Fall Baetis, although diminutive in size, becomes a behemoth in the feeding selection of local trout, not only on Silver Creek but on our local freestones as well. Tricos, though dwindling on Silver Creek, become more numerous on the Big Lost River and the lower Big Wood as well. September may mean the beginning of hunting season and back to school for the kids, but it also signifies a change in local entomology toward one of the most productive periods of the calendar year.

Silver Creek

The Creek continues to fish well, especially in the mornings, with a continuation of the Trico spinner fall and Baetis emergence (both in size 20). Later in the morning, good numbers of PMDs (size 16) have been seen eliciting aggressive attacks. The Callibaetis (size 16) will continue to create great opportunities especially on breezy days creating a slight wind chop on the water and eliminating the sunlight-refracting effect of tippet. Often on these windy days, casting and stripping Callibaetis nymphs can lead to some impressive strikes sub-surface. Hoppers are still an option midday at the Creek, both on the preserve waters as well as on the north side of the highway. Look for the eventual emergence of the Mahogany Dun (size 14-16), a prime food source for the trout as they stock up for winter.

Big Wood River

The Wood has continued to fish well in the latter half of summer…perhaps the best summer fishing in years. However, September will open a new chapter for the Wood, as we see a return to large insects, particularly the Western Red Quill and the October Caddis. The Red Quill (size 12-14) is a true harbinger of autumn and presents itself very much like the Green Drake of July. In fact, Green Drake patterns left over from earlier in the summer will work wonderfully as an imitation for this sizable mayfly. In addition, especially on the lower Big Wood, look for a continuation of Tricos (size 20) and potential blanket hatches of the Fall Baetis (size 20) in the mornings and a significant Grasshopper presence in the midday and afternoon.

Big Lost River

The Lost is flowing at a very fishable 318 cfs and will continue to improve over the next few weeks. September is a great time to fish this conglomerate of spring creeks, alpine tributaries and tailwater as the September Trico spinner fall can be as prolific as any in the region. When the petite black and white mayflies are not present in the air, try nymphing with large mayfly nymphs such as Prince Nymphs (size 12-16) or Flashback Pheasant Tails (size 12-16) with a black, red, or brown Zebra Midge trailing behind (size 20). With the large brown Cranefly still present in good numbers, try the standard quartering-down presentation and skate the fly back across the river with the help of the current. Above the reservoir, the Kokanee are running in strong numbers making for added excitement and gorgeous photographs!

East, West, and North Forks of the Big Lost

The Upper Big Lost is still fishing well although the freezing nighttime temperatures will soon begin to chase fish downstream as their food sources diminish. Attractor patterns will continue to work well here, especially cream Elk Hair Caddis (size 14), Parachute Adams (size 16-18), Adams Irresistibles (size 14-18) and foam hoppers in a number of sizes.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise is fishing well with Fall Baetis (size 20) in addition to the remaining Pink Alberts (size 16). Now that the river is at a prime walk and wade level, the increased access should amount to some superb fly fishing. Grasshoppers are still pulling fish up from the depths and can be fished on 3X and 4X tippet. As always, nymphing can be effective especially when imitating the Baetis and Pink Albert nymphs. Also, Woolly Bugger and Streamer fishing can pull some of the more picky fish out from behind boulders or from the deeper holes.

Salmon River

The Salmon is truly a spectacle right now, not just for the Trout and Whitefish angling, but also due to the return of the Chinook salmon. These King salmon, some of which tip the scales at over 40 pounds, are now appearing in the shallow gravelly runs as they complete their life cycle, laying eggs in the same locations where they were once conceived. Currently, floating is closed on the bulk of the river above the SNRA, so trade in your 10 weight for a pair of binoculars and revel in the beauty of these well-traveled fish.

As August comes to a close, Angling in and around the Wood River Valley continues to be very good. The morning activity at Silver Creek remains consistent and terrestrial fishing is still producing well in the afternoons. The Big Wood, Big Lost, South Fork of the Boise and the Salmon Rivers are also fishing well with good dry fly fishing throughout the day. Look for fishing on our local freestones to improve with the onset of cooler nighttime temperatures and the appearance of larger insects, such as the Red Quill. If you haven’t had an opportunity to pick up a fly rod this summer, don’t worry, autumn is one of the best times of the year to chase the wily and hungry trout.

Silver Creek

The Creek continues to offer good activity for early to rise fishermen. The Tricos (size 20) have begun to dwindle although some mornings, depending on the stretch of river you choose to fish, these petite mayflies will still have a significant presence. Make sure you also come well-equipped for the Baetis emergence (size 20-22), as this is the main morning food source for the Rainbows and Browns of Silver Creek. Callibaetis (size 16) are also becoming more numerous on this spring creek, a welcome treat for those of us who have been straining our eyes to see our minuscule Baetis and Tricos. The Callibaetis should grow in number into September making for some superb angling on both the moving and still water sections. In the afternoons once the mayfly activity calms, try throwing grasshoppers near the banks on 3X or 4X tippet or use Crow Beetles (sizes 10-16).

Big Wood River

The Big Wood is fishing well as Pink Alberts (size 16), Baetis (sizes 18-20), Yellow Craneflies (size 14) and a multitude of Caddis are the flies of choice. Try casting a Spruce Moth (Beige Elk Hair Caddis size 14) as your first selection or a Parachute Adams (sizes 16-18). The caddis will elicit the most aggressive strikes while the mayfly imitation will be another impressive producer for those who wish to fish on the surface. Afternoons see an abundance of riverside grasshopper activity and hopper imitations can bring some of the larger trout to the surface. If fishing slows in the afternoon, add a midge pupae to your grasshopper in an attempt to present a fly down deep. Black, brown and red Zebra Midges are good choices as well as Caddis Pupae (size 12-16) or mayfly nymphs (sizes 16-18).

Big Lost River

The Lost is fishing well both sub-surface and on top. Below the Mackay Dam expect to find success primarily underwater with small black or red Zebra Midges trailed behind larger mayfly nymphs. Prince Nymphs, King Princes, Copper Johns and Pheasant Tails (size 14-18) can be effective. Cranefly patterns such as the Mackay Special, if fished in a quartering-down fashion and skated across the river, will bring some of the larger Rainbows to the surface. Above the reservoir try Parachute Adams (size 16-18) as well as Tricos (size 20). Blue Winged Olives (size 16) will appear as the fall progresses, but for the moment use grasshoppers trailing mayfly nymphs, midge pupae or caddis pupae in a variety of sizes.

Upper Big Lost

The West, East and North Forks of the Big Lost continue to fish well with large cream Caddis eliciting aggressive strikes from Rainbows, Cutthroat, Cuttbows, Brook Trout and Whitefish. As another option in the morning hours try Parachute Adams (sizes 16-18). The Caddis become present in large numbers in the evening but fish will take them all day long. Tricos (size 20) and Pink Alberts (size 16) are prevalent in the mornings and sipping fish are likely to take a well-presented fly. Grasshoppers are another productive choice but I would hedge toward Caddis and Mayflies first. September 1st is about the time that trout begin to migrate downstream from the upper reaches of this river system as nighttime temperatures drop below freezing and food sources begin to wane. Fishing is still productive to the top of the system but in a few short days this will begin to change.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise has recently been dropped to approximately 600 cfs. This can change daily but should remain fairly consistent for the next couple weeks. Make sure to check the Streamflow Report for real time flow reports before you head out. Pink Alberts (size 16) are the imitation of choice on this tailwater. Grasshoppers are another productive selection especially during the afternoon hours. Woolly Buggers and Streamers are always good choices as are mayfly nymphs (size 16) trailed off of foam Hoppers.

Salmon River

The Salmon continues to fish well for Rainbow and Cutthroat trout as well as for Whitefish. The high activity we saw two weeks ago has passed but fish are still eating Spruce Moths (cream Elk Hair Caddis size 12) regularly. Black Flying Ants (size 12) will bring some fish to the surface but expect to see a more significant dependence on nymphing as we head into September. Be aware that the Chinook Salmon are now spawning and floating is closed from Buckhorn to Stanley, Mormon Bend to the Yankee Fork and Torrey’s downstream toward Squaw Creek.

Whether you are fishing our meandering valley river bottoms or the alpine lakes high above, fly fishing in central Idaho is absolutely excellent at the moment. Trout are feeding aggressively on the various mayfly and caddis floating down our local freestones and the morning activity at Silver Creek is at its annual peak. Mornings and evenings lend themselves to more active dry fly fishing but midday can be very exciting with grasshoppers and various other terrestrials. All in all, it is an excellent time to be on the river, whichever river you choose!

Silver Creek

The annual “Trico Madness” featuring our world class Trico spinner fall has been underway for about three weeks and is now reaching its peak. Expect the action to heat up around 7:30 am and continue until about 11:30 am, depending on which section you select to fish. Initially, throw Trico duns to imitate the early spinners before they drop their wings. As the morning progresses, look for a significant Baetis emergence which will become evident as the diminutive olive mayflies climb up your waders before drying their wings and flying away. PMDs will also have a presence later in the morning and can be effective patterns to use as a quick respite from the continual Trico/Baetis fly rotation. Changing flies regularly is very important when fishing the Creek this time of year as fish will identify the imitations and disregard them. Sometimes switching between dun and spinner patterns should be done every half-dozen casts. As soon as your once-effective fly begins to float over the trout pod without success, take the initiative to switch patterns and revel in the next strike which will likely come immediately on a well-presented downstream cast. Once the morning window closes, try throwing terrestrials against the banks or floating blue damselflies along weedbeds mid-stream.

Big Wood River

The Wood is fishing very well, especially in the mornings and evenings. Mayflies, such as Pink Alberts (size 16), Tricos (size 20-22) and Baetis (size 18-20) are most prevalent in the mornings but the larger Pink Alberts will be present throughout the day. Also notice the small yellow Cranefly (size 14) present in decent numbers. During the heat of the afternoon, try throwing cream or yellow-bellied foam Grasshoppers along seams or against banks. Fish are looking up for these large meals and will rise to the surface from their deep summer haunts to snag such a nutritious meal. When the hopper action is mediocre, add a mayfly nymph, caddis pupae (size 12-18) or a Zebra Midge (size 18-22) off the hopper’s hook shank one to three feet, depending on the depth of the water you are fishing.

Big Lost River

The Lost will fish well through the end of summer and improve through September. Expect to see a smattering of mayflies including Baetis (size 20), Pink Alberts (size 16-18) and increasing numbers of Tricos (size 20-22) over the next week. Flowing at approximately 300 cfs, the river below Mackay Dam is at a prime level for fly fishing. In addition to mayflies, expect to see the large Cranefly and try imitating this insect with quartering-down presentations to the opposing banks. Often, this technique can pull large ‘bows from the bottom that are not otherwise actively feeding. Large nymphs such as Prince Nymphs, Flashback Pheasant Tails and King Princes (size 12-18) are the standard selections on this little tailwater fished under a strike indicator. Combining these large patterns with the petite Zebra Midge in black, brown or red (size 20) can also lead to a productive day subsurface.

Upper Big Lost

Although the various forks of the Lost have seen a good amount of pressure this summer, fishing remains very good along the East, West and North Forks. Use large attractor patterns such as cream Elk Hair Caddis (size 12-16), PMDs (size 16), Parachute Adams, Adams Wulffs, Irresistibles (size 12-16), Black Flying Ants (size 14-18) and Grasshoppers. In late August the Flying Ant takes on a more significant roll for feeding Rainbows, Cutthroats, Cuttbows, Brook Trout and Whitefish. Don’t hesitate to start with this pattern and revisit it frequently throughout the day.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise remains at 1600 cfs although we can expect the flow to be lowered as September approaches. Check the streamflow chart before heading out to this tailwater as daily changes are inevitable. Look for Pink Alberts (size 16) to lead the charge here as well as the Golden Stone (size 14) and a variety of caddis and micro caddis. Use foam Grasshoppers extensively, dropping mayfly nymphs and caddis pupae (size 14-18) from the larger terrestrials above. Streamer fishing is also an exciting option as behemoth Rainbows and Bull Trout lurk below in the deeper runs and holes as they wait for crippled minnows to float by making for aggressive strikes.

Salmon River

The Salmon is currently on fire. Caddis are everywhere and are even falling from the riverside shrubbery into the water where waiting Rainbows, Cutthroat, Cuttbows, Bull Trout, Squawfish and Whitefish are sipping them up aggressively. Try throwing cream Elk Hair Caddis (size 14-16) as your “go-to” pattern. Orange-bodied Stimulators (size 10-14) are also good options for ravenous Cutthroats. Dropping large Prince Nymphs, King Princes, Flashbacks and Copper Johns (size 12-16) will also produce excellent numbers of strikes. Be aware that some sections of the river have been closed to floating due to the oncoming Chinook Salmon spawning period and that upper sections of the river above Clayton have become shallow making for difficult, rocky floats. This is no obstacle to superb fly fishing though, as the walk-and-wade fishing is excellent!

As we enter the middle of August, local fisheries are producing very well. Silver Creek is in the midst of the annual “Trico Madness” activity and our regional freestones are offering excellent mayfly, caddis and grasshopper opportunities. The recent inclement weather and thunderstorms have slightly colored the waters in our area, but this is a temporary problem as the rivers clear themselves quite quickly. Up north, the Salmon River is flowing at a low level making it very wadeable with trout concentrated in smaller areas. Expect the action on the rivers to slow in the heat of the day while mornings and evenings offer very good insect activity on all of our local waters.

Silver Creek

The Creek is beginning to peak in the mornings as the petite Tricos enjoy their proliferation. This spinner fall is a wonder to behold as thousands, perhaps millions, of insects swarm the river before mating, dropping their eggs and finally coming to rest on the water’s surface. Baetis are concurrently emerging providing an additional set of patterns to fool the wily Brown and Rainbow Trout. Use Trico duns early in the spinner fall and then move toward Trico spinners as the bugs begin to hit the surface. Switching back and forth between Baetis and Trico patterns can help to keep fish off guard and on the end of your line. PMDs will join the frenzy half way through the morning’s activity. Try throwing a few PMDs (size 16) then finish off the morning returning to the miniature Trico spinners. Midday can be rather quiet on the Creek, but Blue Damselflies, grasshoppers, beetles and ants can still bring fish to the surface.

Big Wood River

The Wood is fishing better than usual as a result of the extended runoff we experienced earlier this summer. Baetis (size 20) are prevalent during the morning and early afternoon as are the larger Pink Alberts (size 16). Expect to see good Trico activity on the Big Wood during the morning’s hours. Try working the slow water backeddies and bubble lines with Trico duns (size 20). In the evening, expect to see a variety of caddis on the Wood. Brown elk hair caddis (size 16) will match this hatch as well as larger cream caddis (size 14).

August is Grasshopper season on the Big Wood and fish have been aggressively taking any number of hopper patterns in a variety of sizes. Try foam hoppers on seams and against banks in order to pull up the larger rainbows from their deep cool haunts.

Big Lost River

The Big Lost is flowing at a wadeable 432 cfs, allowing anglers to fish below the dam. Large nymphs such as the King Prince, Prince nymph and Flashback Pheasant Tail (size 12-16) in addition to Zebra Midges (sizes 16-20) will be effective. Craneflies are also a good option on the Lost and are especially good choices during the middle of the day. Cast these “mosquito eaters” at a quartering down angle and skate them back across the surface. Large rainbows will often throw caution to the wind and violently attack these gangly insect.

Upper Big Lost

The North, East and West Forks of the Big Lost continue to fish well. Any number of attractor patterns will raise fish including Parachute Adams, Adams Irresistible, Black Flying Ants, Caddis, Royal Trudes, Coachmen and Wulffs in sizes 12-16. These tributaries offer an array of trout species including Rainbow, Brook, West Slope Cutthroat, Finespot Cutthroat, Cuttbows and Whitefish. This alpine area is the perfect destination for anglers of any experience level or for first time fly fishermen just beginning the wonderful journey of learning to catch fish on the fly.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise continues to fish well with Pink Alberts (size 16) making for some very good mayfly fishing in addition to Golden Stoneflies (size 14). When fish are not rising to the surface, any number of mayfly and stonefly nymphs fished sub-surface should elicit strikes. Streamer fishing can also be productive on this cold tailwater fishery. Make sure to check the streamflow charts before driving to this river as the flow will soon be lowered and can happen any day without warning.

Salmon River

The Salmon is flowing at a perfect level for both drift boat fishing and walk and wade angling. The West Slope Cutthroat, Rainbows, Cuttbows, Brook Trout, Bull Trout, Squawfish and Whitefish are rising to a variety of patterns including beige and brown elk hair caddis (size 14-16), stimulators (size 14-16), Grey Drakes (size 12), Large Golden Stones (size 8-10) and any number of mayfly nymphs or caddis pupae dropped off the large dry flies.

Traditionally, August fishing on Silver Creek becomes extremely active in the mornings with the onset of “Trico Madness”. This famous conflagration of tricorithodes spinners, in conjunction with other small mayflies, demands that anglers cast flies of the most diminutive proportions. However, it will be very much the opposite on our local freestones and tailwaters as we see a proliferation of larger insects, namely Grasshoppers. Thrown during the heat of the day, these terrestrials have been known to produce some violent strikes from the river. Regardless of location, the next few weeks of fly fishing will be very exciting!

Silver Creek

Any accomplished fisherman, who has not fished the Creek yet, should be waking early over the next three weeks as the Trico spinnerfall, one of Silver Creek’s true entomological signature spinner falls, is a wonder to behold. Although a little stingy lately, the Trico action has begun to heat up. Right now, the best window is between 8:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., depending on what section of the Creek you are fishing. At its peak, fishing will be superb from about 7:45 a.m. until 11:30 a.m.. Try dun patterns early in the fall cycle (sizes 20-22) and as the spinner fall progresses, move toward Trico spinners (size 20-22). You will notice, if you look at your legs, that Baetis emergers will also make a strong showing by crawling up your waders while the action is hot. Try rotating between Trico and Baetis patterns during this emergence in order to keep fish guessing and off-guard. Later in the morning, stay vigilant for PMDs which can promote more aggressive strikes as they sail downstream, offsetting themselves from the more petite Tricos and Baetis. After the madness subsides, try beetles and grasshoppers as well as Blue Damselflies in all sizes. Many savvy fishermen enjoy the frenetic action of August mornings at the Creek and then drive to the Big Wood for afternoon freestone hopper fishing.

Big Wood River

The Wood has been fishing well this summer despite a slow start to the season. Although the days of prolific Green Drake hatches are behind us, fishermen are having good success with Parachute Adams (size 16), Purple Hazes (size 16), Pink Alberts (size 16), PMDs (size 16-18) and Beige or Brown Elk Hair Caddis (size 12-16). These patterns can be productive throughout the day but especially in the mornings and the evenings. During the heat of the day, fish are tending to sulk in deeper pools, hang out near fast/slow water seams, or oxygenate themselves in fast riffles. When the hot summer sun beats down midday, try throwing grasshoppers in all of these locations. Although the majority of grasshoppers are not yet fully grown, use larger hopper patterns to bring wary fish to the surface. A distinctive “PLOP” when the imitation hits the water can trigger a trout’s carnivorous tendencies and convince even some of the largest fish to come to the surface. If this technique does raise any Rainbows, drop a nymph off the hopper’s hook shank and try the well-proven “Hopper/Dropper” method.

Big Lost River

The flow below the Mackay dam has been dropped to approximately 480 cfs making it possible to wade, but only for those experienced anglers with strong legs. If you venture into this stretch, use large nymphs and strike indicators or Craneflies fished in a quartering-down fashion. Also try large nymphs such as Prince Nymphs, King Princes and Flashback Pheasant Tails in size 12-16. Also, Zebra Midges in size 18-22 can be effective. San Juan Worms are also a good sub-surface option (size 12) while skating Craneflies (size 10) is another exciting pattern to use. PMDs and Parachute Adams in size 12-16 are also good producers.

East, West, and North Forks of the Big Lost

These high altitude tributaries of the Big Lost are fishing extremely well right now. Caddis (size 12-16), Gray Drakes (size 10-12), Brown Quills (size 14), PMDs (size 16), Yellow Sallies (size 14-16), Parachute Adams (size 12-16) and Grasshoppers are all bringing fish to the surface. During slower periods, try dropping a small brown mayfly nymph or caddis pupae from your dry fly.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise is fishing well with Pink Alberts (size 16), Golden Stones (size 12-14) and the occasional Salmonfly (size 6-8) still bringing fish to the surface. Caddis can also be effective right now (sizes 12-16) in either beige or gray. When the activity subsides, try Woolly Buggers and streamers down deep. Bull Trout and Rainbows are susceptible to these fishy patterns and when they take they can darn near rip the rod right out of your hands.

Salmon River

The Salmon is fishing best during the cooler morning and evening hours with Beige Caddis (size 14-16) being the star of the show. Black Flying Ants also have significant presence in the mornings but can be fished all day. Grasshoppers are also good options as well as Yellow Sallies (size 14), PMDs (size 16) and other terrestrials like Cicadas and Crow Beetles in sizes 10-12. Hopper/dropper set ups are effective for hooking trout and whitefish, as is the lesser used Large Golden Stonefly/dropper configuration with Prince Nymphs or Pheasant Tails in size 12-16 hanging below.

As July nears its end, it is interesting to look back at the fluctuating river conditions local anglers have seen this month. The flows on the Salmon River, the upper Big Lost and the Big Wood during the latter part of June and early July were near record setting. It seemed as if the high water would never subside despite the fact that we had a below average winter snowpack. As predicted by many, once the rivers finally began to lower, they did so quickly. As the levels subsided, our local rivers produced world-class angling; however, this wonderful window of angling is drawing to an end. Fortunately, our local spring creek is becoming very active in the mornings and our alpine streams are starting to be excellent fish producers. Good fishing can be found on all our local waters in the mornings and evenings as the heat of the day drives some of the larger, better educated fish toward their deep water, mid-summertime hangouts.

Silver Creek

The Creek has turned on noticeably in the mornings with Baetis being the main attraction in conjunction with PMDs and the burgeoning Trico spinner falls. Downstream presentations are a must and 6X tippet on 12-15 feet leaders should be the standard tackle selection. Baetis and Tricos (sizes 20-22) will be the best picks for the fly box, but make sure to come equipped with dun, emerger, cripple and spinner patterns. Begin the morning activity throwing dun patterns as the earliest spinners will present as healthy adults until later in the morning when they give up the ghost and drop their wings to the water’s surface. PMDs will be mixed in mid-morning and trout will key in on them briefly during the morning’s madness. Remember, it is important to change patterns often as these wily fish tend to identify imitations quickly making for refusals sometimes after only 2 or 3 presentations. Rotating through a half dozen Trico and occasionally casting a Baetis and PMD will keep the fish guessing, off-guard and on the end of your tippet. In the afternoon when the minute mayflies have subsided, try floating damselflies and Grasshoppers near weed beds and under-cut banks. Callibaetis will also be present in the stillwater sections. Try size 14-16 speckled wing duns as well as size 16 Beadhead Flashback Pheasant Tails sight-nymphed to cruising fish or cast and stripped in the wind chop.

Big Wood River

At the end of last week, the Big Wood had dropped markedly, but the river has actually dropped another 50% in just the past few days! Although afternoon fishing can still be productive with Pink Alberts (size 16), Parachute Adams (size 12-16), Yellow Sallies (size 14), Elk Hair Caddis (size 12-16), Goddard’s Caddis (size 14-16) and PMDs (size 16), look to the mornings and evenings for the most productive fishing. Caddis and PMDs have a strong presence during these lower-light periods and can be dead drifted or skated as the evenings grow dim. Look to begin throwing Grasshoppers as well as they have been spotted recently on our local waterways.

Big Lost River

Although the water level below the dam has been raised again and wading this tailwater has returned to a dangerous level (602 cfs), some anglers have adventured into the spring creek flows above the reservoir, finding some success. PMDs, Baetis and soon, Tricos, will be present on this river although most fishermen are throwing large nymphs such as Princes (size 12-16), Flashback Pheasant Tails (size 12-16) and King Princes (size 12-16). Craneflies skated at a quartering down angle to the current can also bring large ‘Bows to the surface as they chase these sizable but highly mobile meals.

Upper Big Lost

The North, East and West Forks of the Big Lost are fishing very well. Cream Caddis (size14-16) are numerous in the evenings and mornings as are March Browns (size 14). Look for Yellow Sallies (size 14-16) to be the main attraction in the middle of the day in addition to PMDs (size 16). A variety of attractor patterns will work well right now in addition to the grasshoppers which are increasing in number and size with every passing day. Do be aware that some of the Finespot Cutthroats are still spawning in higher elevations and their redds should be avoided.

South Fork of the Boise

Driftboating has been the main attraction on the South Fork of the Boise as its summer flow makes walking and wading difficult. Large foam-bodied patterns are still turning fish although this will begin to diminish as the Salmonflies and Cicadas become distant memories. Choose cream and gray Elk Hair and Goddard’s Caddis (size14-16) in the evenings while throwing Pink Alberts (size 16) in the afternoons.

Salmon River

The Salmon is more temperamental now than the last 2 weeks as the heat of the summer and the lowered riverflow have pushed the best fishing to the mornings and evenings. Caddis are flocking to this freestone in massive numbers as the sun drops in the sky. Elk Hair Caddis in cream and beige (size 14-16) will take fish both dead drifted and skated. Look for continued PMD (size 16) presence in the late morning and significant Yellow Sally numbers (size 14) in the middle of the day through late afternoon. Black/red Flying Ants (size14) have also shown excellent numbers in the mornings while most of the larger Stoneflies have dwindled in population. Caddis, stimulators and grasshoppers can be used to drop large mayfly nymphs, stonefly nymphs and caddis pupae in front of fish hanging low in the water column as the daytime temperatures rise.

Though all of our local rivers remain slightly above their normal annual stream flow for mid-July, fishing conditions have finally stabilized. The Big Wood is fishing exceptionally well with pronounced dry fly activity throughout the day while the Big Lost has been lowered to a fishable, though still high, water level. Silver Creek is fishing relatively well as we move toward the “Trico Madness” which waits right around the corner. The South Fork of the Boise and the Salmon River offer drift boat opportunities as well as some excellent walk and wade fishing near Stanley. Summer fishing is in full stride and the dry fly fishing couldn’t be more fun!!

Silver Creek

The Creek has been fishing relatively well although slightly less productively than the prior two weeks. Baetis are the most numerous mayfly in the mornings with surges throughout the day. PMDs will still bring fish to the surface but the Browns and Rainbows have become a little more selective due to continued fishing pressure. If you look closely in the mornings, you will likely see a few Tricos mixed in with the other mayflies. These diminutive Tricorithodes will grow in number throughout the rest of July as we head toward the annual Trico spinnerfall which reaches its peak in the first ten days of August. Midday offers Damselflies and terrestrials on the moving water and Callibaetis on the still water. Caddis can be numerous in the evenings and well after dark on both sides of the highway.

Big Wood River

The Wood has been on fire the past ten days and will continue to be for the next two weeks or so. For the time being, there are several patterns working well including the Parachute Adams (size 12-16), Green Drake dun/cripple (size 12), orange, yellow or Royal Stimulators (size 12-16), Quill Gordon (size 14), PMD (size 16) and a variety of Caddis (size 12-16). Middays and afternoons are the most active periods for dry fly fishing but evenings on the Big Wood this time of year can be very exciting as the PMDs and Caddis become prevalent.

Big Lost River

The Big Lost has been lowered to 539 cfs which, though still a high flow for beneath the Mackay Dam, is at a fishable level for intrepid waders. PMDs (ephemerella deceptiva) in size 16 will be numerous on this waterway as well as Baetis (size 20-22). Look for Craneflies and imitate them with a quartering-down presentation while skipping them along the surface of the water. This technique can convince even the largest of Big Lost River trout to voraciously attack your “mosquito eater”. Fished under an indicator, large nymphs such as the Prince, King Prince and Flashback Pheasant Tail (size 12-16) will likely turn the most heads subsurface. Zebra Midges (size 18-22) are also a good option underwater.

Upper Big Lost

The East, North and West Forks of the Big Lost have dropped significantly and have begun to fish well. Use attractor patterns such as Royal Wulffs, Adams Wulffs, Royal Trudes, Gray Drakes, Stimulators and Caddis in sizes 12-16 and enjoy a beautiful day in the high country chasing Rainbows, Cutthroats, Cutbows, Brook Trout and Whitefish. Are the rumors of California Goldens and Grayling true? You better go find out!

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise has been fishing very well. Fish have been rising aggressively to the Salmonfly as well as small gray and cream caddis. Pink Alberts, Baetis and a few PMDs may also be encountered on this tail water. At 1800 cfs, drift boating will be the most successful approach to this river and when all else fails, try large nymphs and streamers subsurface to entice the behemoth Rainbows and Bull Trout that lurk down deep.

Salmon River

The Salmon is fishing very well for both drift boaters and walk and wade fishermen. Although most of the Salmonflies have come and gone, Golden Stones (size 14-16), Gray Drakes (size 12), Orange-bodied Stones (size10-14), and PMDs (size 16) make for some superb dry fly action. In the evening massive clouds of Caddis descend upon the river bringing trout to the surface en masse. Try beige Elk Hair Caddis (size 16) and be ready for some hot and heavy action until darkness falls.

Over the past week, our local rivers have dropped significantly allowing for summer dry fly fishing to hit its stride. Locally, the Big Wood offers a veritable smorgasbord of mayflies, caddis and stoneflies while Silver Creek continues to fish well with Drakes and Callibaetis. The Upper Big Lost is coming on strong as the water levels drop while the Big Lost below Mackay Reservoir is at a more fishable level but still remains challenging for wading. The Salmon River is starting to come on as large stoneflies and an abundance of caddis and mayflies blanket the surface. The South Fork of the Boise is ripe with Salmonflies, caddis, mayflies and cicadas. In sum, dry fly fishing is at its most exciting and will remain so for the next few weeks in the Sun Valley area!

Silver Creek

The Creek continues to fish well with Baetis (size 20-22) and PMDs (size 14-16) leading the charge in the mornings and afternoons. A few Green Drakes still flutter midday while the Blue Damsels (size 12) are prolific when the sun is at its highest. Look for significant Callibaetis emergences on the still water in the middle of the day which can make for exciting sight nymphing and dry fly action on Sullivan’s Slough or the Kilpatrick Pond. During the heat of the day, terrestrials such as Crow Beetles, Chernobyl Ants and Grasshoppers can elicit aggressive strikes near undercut banks. Evening fishing will also be productive on warm and sunny days as caddis and PMDs make for some exciting action.

Big Wood River

With lower levels and clearer water, the Big Wood has started fishing extremely well. Afternoon fishing is the highlight of the day as Green Drakes have become abundant along with with stoneflies such as the large Californicus (size 8-10), Lime Sally (size 16-18), and Yellow Sally (size 16). In addition to Green Drakes (size 10-12), other mayfly patterns such as PMDs (size 16-18), Pink Alberts (size 16) and Parachute Adams (size 10-18) can be thrown to rising trout with good success. Evening angling is also productive as PMDs and Caddis become more abundant.

Big Lost River System

The Upper Big Lost, which includes the West Fork, East Fork and North Fork as well as Wildhorse Creek, is beginning to fish better as the stream flow decreases. Although still higher than optimal, these alpine streams are coming into their own and will begin to be extremely productive over the next week as additional trout migrate back into these high altitude waters. Try attractor patterns such as Adams Wulffs (size 12-14), Royal Wulffs (size 12-14), Trudes and Stimulators (size 12-16) and any number of Caddis imitations. Gray Drakes can be prevalent this time of year in addition to a smattering of stoneflies in every color. This is an exceptional river system for beginner and experienced anglers alike and can make for a perfect “family day” of fly fishing. Just remember to bring your tire iron and jack as the road has recently been graded and will undoubtedly produce its fair share of flat tires.

The Big Lost River proper has been lowered to approximately 600 cfs which makes it possible to fish below the reservoir but wading will be challenging and the water a bit off-color. This is likely to be a consistent summer flow for the Lost as the reservoir remains nearly at capacity. Large nymphs such as Princes and Flashback Pheasant Tails (size 12-16) will turn fish while a Cranefly (size 10) skipped on the surface in a quartering-down presentation may bring large fish to the surface.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise will offer very good fishing, but large crowds of anglers. Salmonflies are the main draw this time of year while Pink Alberts (size 16) and gray caddis (size 16) can also be good options. Though fishing to the banks is the most common approach for drift boaters, consider drifting your flies several feet off the bank as trout will have seen many imitations and may have moved out into the river channel to avoid continued disturbance.

Salmon River

The Salmon reached remarkably high runoff levels this year but has finally subsided to a very fishable level and trout have begun to rush the surface in search of Salmonflies, mayflies and caddis. The afternoons offer the most exciting action as the large stoneflies become prevalent around 1pm on the upper river between Stanley and Clayton. Look for PMDs (size 16) and large numbers of Gray Drakes (size 12) as well as other sailwings to appear earlier than the Salmonflies.

Due to a cold and wet spring, our local freestones are still flowing relatively high and fast for this time of the year. Luckily, as we head into July, our local waterways will continue to drop and clear and give us some of the best fly-fishing of the year. Look for the Big and Little Wood Rivers, Copper Basin and the Salmon to continue to drop while Silver Creek continues to fish well. Unfortunately, for the foreseeable future, the Big Lost remains too high to fish safely. Altogether, local fishing opportunities are on the brink of expanding and the fishing will start to heat up as summer arrives!

Silver Creek

The Creek continues to fish well with good PMD and Baetis activity in the mornings and afternoon/evenings. PMDs in all phases can be thrown to sipping fish on 5X and 6X in size 14-16, while the diminutive Baetis should be thrown on 6X in size 20-22. Watch the rising carefully to discern whether the trout are feeding ON or just UNDER the surface. This will indicate if you should be offering emergers or duns to these highly selective fish. Damselflies will continue to increase in number and can be effective attractors during the middle of the day. Also numerous throughout midday is the Callibaetis, especially on the still-water sections of the Silver Creek Preserve. These sizeable Speckled-wing Duns are best imitated with gray mayfly patterns in size 14. Cripple patterns fished in a wind chop can often pull fish from the depths as well as nymphs and emergers sight-fished from the banks.

Big Wood River

The Big Wood water levels have increased slightly this week, but they will soon begin to drop back to more normal levels. For now, most fishermen are throwing large stonefly and mayfly nymphs such as the Green Drake (sizes 12-14) and Terranarsus (size 8-14). Bead-headed stonefly nymphs in black, brown and orange will sink quickly and attract the attention of Rainbows. Also try Woolly Bugger and Sculpin patterns in olive, black and brown. On the surface, the action is quickly heating up. Green Drakes midday will continue to be prolific. These large mayflies should be imitated with a variety of patterns from emergers to cripples to duns in size 12. PMDs have become numerous in the afternoons and fish are actively rising to these ephemerella on tippet as stout as 4X. A few Pink Alberts have been spotted lately and, along with the PMDs, should be cast in sizes 14-16. Expect to see a large population of stoneflies frequenting the Big Wood now in various sizes and colors including Californicus (size 8-10), Yellow Sallies (size 12-14), Lime Sallies (size 14-16) and orange and red-bodied stones (size 14-18).

Big Lost River and Copper Basin

The upper stretches of the Big Lost River system are clear although still flowing at a relatively high rate. As the snowpack diminishes and temperatures rise, these alpine streams will begin to fish well as insect activity increases and fish continue to migrate back up the system toward their summertime haunts. Gray Drakes (size 12), stimulators in a variety of colors (size 12-16), Parachute Adams (size 12-18), Royal Wulffs and Adams Wulffs (size 12-16) and Caddis (size12-16) will draw fish to the surface and make for excellent angling. Currently, the main stretch of the Big Lost remains too high to fish safely. Once the Lost drops below 500cfs it will be safe for wading and worth the drive over Trail Creek Pass.

South Fork of the Boise

The South Fork of the Boise will become a serious focus for anglers this upcoming month. Salmonflies, Caddis, Cicadas, Pink Alberts and Baetis will become the stars of the show. At nearly 2000cfs, this river is not safe for walk and wade fishing although it is a superb level for drift boating. Look for the number of anglers to increase as word of the Salmonfly emergence spreads. Streamers and Woolly Buggers are good patterns to dredge down deep when the surface activity subsides.

Salmon River

The Salmon River remains higher than average but is slowly dropping toward a more normal July flow. Currently, Slate Creek and East Fork are completely blown out making for very colored water below Clayton. Above Slate Creek to the Yankee Fork is fishable though high and dangerous wading. Above the Yankee Fork to Stanley, the water color is quite clear though higher than would be optimal. Salmonflies, Large Golden Stones, Drakes, PMDs and Caddis are the most prevalent insects on this waterway and their nymph and pupa stages can be also be thrown during less active surface feeding periods with good success.