Not much has changed in water conditions. Since summer is having a hard time finding Central Idaho, it's anybody's guess when we will have a full fishing season. We have seen a little improvement in hatch consistency but it is still hit-and-miss. Let's take a look at what we've got:
SILVER CREEK—Although we're still missing our major hatch for this time of year, other hatches have seen some improvement. The Pale Morning Dun has been much stronger and a Para PMD #16-18, Cut-Wing PMD #16-18 and a Cripple PMD #16 should do the job. Beatis is always present. A Para Blue Olive #20-24 and a Mason Quill Beatis Spinner #22 work well if Beatis is out. In addition, Black Midges and Black Midge Pupa #20-22 are always effective as well as Ant and Beatle patterns in size #16-18. Although only a few Brown Drakes have been seen, the hatch for the most part has been a bust so far. I can't believe it's done with but you never know. If it does come, it will be fast and furious and be over with by the time you get your waders on and shoes laced up. Regardless, if it doesn't show this week, I'm taking my money off the table. Good luck.
BIG WOOD RIVER—Too high and off-color to fish.
WARM SPRINGS/TRAIL CREEK—Neither is fishable.
BIG LOST—The upper river is running high. It is past the point of comfortable wading and fishing since they've turned up the flow in the lower section (500 cfs). I would leave both areas alone. What is interesting, of the drainages in the state, the Big Lost Basin has considerably less water content left to melt off. It could become very fishable sooner than anywhere else. I will keep you abreast of things as it unfolds.
PENNY LAKE/LAKE CREEK/GAVER'S LAGOON—Always updated with planted fish and is a great option for the younger set.
SOUTH FORK OF THE BOISE—They have actually dropped the water level in half to 2000 cfs, thus making it very fishable in selected places. Had a solid report of success while fishing the bank edges using Simulators. Regardless, there is still a great deal of water so be very careful while wading.
