Fly fishing in Idaho is a dream come true for any fisherman. With stunning landscapes and pristine waters, Idaho offers a variety of fly fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels. From rainbow trout to steelhead, Idaho is home to some of the best fly fishing spots in the United States. In this article, we’ll be discussing the 10 best fly fishing spots in Idaho and what you need to know before embarking on your next fishing trip.
Silver Creek
Silver Creek is a spring creek located in south-central Idaho that provides excellent fly fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels. Known for its Brown and Rainbow trout, Silver Creek is a year-round fishery that is best fished in the early morning and late evening. For beginners, we recommend using dry flies and fishing the undercut banks.
Henry’s Fork
Henry’s Fork is a legendary river located in eastern Idaho that is home to a variety of fish species, including Rainbow, Brown, and Cutthroat trout. The river is best fished from June through October and is known for its dry fly fishing opportunities. To catch the biggest fish, we recommend using large dry flies and fishing during the evening hatch.
South Fork of the Snake River
The South Fork of the Snake River is a tailwater fishery located in eastern Idaho that is best fished from May through October. Known for its Cutthroat, Rainbow, and Brown trout, the South Fork is an excellent destination for both beginners and professionals. To catch the most fish, we recommend using nymphs and fishing the riffles and pools.
Clearwater River
The Clearwater River is a large river located in north-central Idaho that is known for its world-class steelhead fishing. The river is best fished from September through November and is home to both wild and hatchery-raised steelhead. To catch the biggest fish, we recommend using a two-handed Spey rod and fishing the deeper runs.
Kelly Creek
Kelly Creek is a small, freestone stream located in north-central Idaho that is best fished from June through October. Known for its native Cutthroat trout, Kelly Creek is an excellent destination for those looking for a more secluded fly fishing experience. To catch the most fish, we recommend using dry flies and fishing the riffles and pools.
Snake River
The Snake River is a large river that runs through Wyoming, Idaho, and Washington and is home to a variety of fish species, including Cutthroat, Rainbow, and Brown trout. The river is best fished from May through October and offers excellent dry fly fishing opportunities. To catch the most fish, we recommend using small dry flies and fishing the riffles and pools.
Silver Fork
Silver Fork is a small stream located in south-central Idaho that is best fished from June through October. Known for its native Cutthroat trout, Silver Fork is an excellent destination for those looking for a more remote fly fishing experience. To catch the most fish, we recommend using dry flies and fishing the undercut banks.
Big Lost River
The Big Lost River is a tailwater fishery located in eastern Idaho that is best fished from May through October. Known for its Rainbow and Brown trout, the Big Lost River offers excellent dry fly fishing opportunities. To catch the most fish, we recommend using small dry flies and fishing the riffles and pools.
Owyhee River
The Owyhee River is a tailwater fishery located in southwestern Idaho that is best fished from April through October. Known for its Brown and Rainbow trout, the Owyhee River is an excellent destination for those looking for a challenging fly fishing experience. To catch the most fish, we recommend using small dry flies and
fishing the slow-moving water.
Silver Bow Creek
Silver Bow Creek is a small stream located in southwestern Montana that offers excellent fly fishing opportunities for anglers of all levels. Known for its Brown and Rainbow trout, Silver Bow Creek is best fished from June through October. To catch the most fish, we recommend using dry flies and fishing the undercut banks.
What a beginner needs to know about fishing in Idaho:
If you’re new to fly fishing in Idaho, there are a few things you should know before embarking on your first trip. First, make sure you have the appropriate gear and equipment, including a fly rod, reel, line, and waders. Before you start fishing, make sure you have a valid fishing license. It’s also a good idea to research the specific fishing regulations and license requirements for the area you plan to fish in. Additionally, don’t be afraid to ask locals or experienced anglers for advice and tips on the best fishing spots and techniques.
What a professional fisherman should take into account:
For experienced anglers, it’s important to take into account the specific fishing conditions and weather patterns for the area you plan to fish in. This can include factors such as water temperature, river flow, and hatching patterns. Additionally, it’s a good idea to experiment with different flies and techniques to see what works best in each specific fishing spot. Finally, always remember to practice catch-and-release fishing to help preserve the fish populations for future generations.
Don’t forget to check the local regulations and restrictions as there are some areas that are off-limits for fishing
Interesting facts related to fly fishing in Idaho:
- Idaho is home to the world-famous fly fishing outfitter, Orvis Fly Fishing.
- The state record for the largest rainbow trout caught in Idaho is 37 inches long and weighs 28 pounds.
- Idaho is home to the “Cutthroat Capital of the World,” which is found in the Snake River drainage system.
- Idaho is home to more than 3,000 miles of fishable streams and rivers.
- The first fly fishing club in the United States was founded in Boise, Idaho in 1904.
In conclusion, Idaho offers some of the best fly fishing opportunities in the United States, with a variety of fish species and scenic locations to choose from. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional angler, there’s something for everyone in the Gem State. Just remember to do your research, follow fishing regulations, and practice catch-and-release fishing to help preserve these amazing resources for future generations.