Fishing remains limited and somewhat inconsistent. But it’s improving—depending where you are and when. Hatch activity has improved. We should see a real breakthrough in working fish by the weekend. Even better news, I’m seeing the color of the water take on a greenish tint. Because water levels are now dropping on a daily basis, this weekend could also see other fishing opportunities opening up. I still don’t know where levels will be for the remainder of the summer season. Much snowpack remains in the high country but right now, I see us on the cusp of things breaking loose so let’s take a look at what’s in store for the week.
SILVER CREEK—Like the last few weeks, your success depends on where you are and when, not only on the Preserve but throughout the entire system. Fishing isn’t easy, but with hatch strength improving and with some sightings of Trico being seen, a huge door should be about to be open. Pale Morning Duns haven’t been overly abundant but they are steady, particularly in the evenings. Para PMD #18 and Crippled PMD #18 should do the job. Although it hasn’t been as strong as in past years, I would also be on guard for PMD spinners in the morning. If they are seen, Gray/Yellow No-Hackle #18 is always deadly and it’s my fly of choice. Beatis (particularly the spinner) is always present in the mornings. Getting stronger with each passing day, Mason Quill Beatis Spinner #22 is a “must carry” in your fly box. Although it’s a bit early, Trico has had some scattered sighting. It wouldn’t surprise me if things could be full-blown by the weekend. Dave’s Trico Spinner #20-22 and a Cut-Wing Trico Spinner #20-22 should be in your arsenal from this point forward. Keep in mind that some reasonable Hopper fishing has been reported on the lower reaches of the Creek.
BIG WOOD RIVER—The Wood was still unfishable early this week, but improvements in water coloration and levels are now being seen. If this trend continues (dropping @150 cfs a day), we MIGHT be able to find some fishing by the weekend. It will still be very difficult to wade but side channels and eddies along the bank, could be workable. The waters north of Ketchum might be worth a serious look. Big weighted Nymphs #8-10, Black/Yellow Jigs and Yellow and Orange Stimulators #8-10, might move some fish. Water safety is still paramount. Don’t try to be a hero.
WARM SPRINGS/TRAIL CREEK—Warm Springs is still running high but is clear enough to fish. Traveling upriver will find greater success. Para Adams #12-14, Yellow Stimulators #12-14 and Prince Nymphs #12 might pop a few trout. Trail Creek is still high, off-color and “cooking”. It’s always the last to clear up. It’s just that kind of year, for even the East Fork of the Wood has more water than I have seen in a very long time.
BIG LOST—This area, particularly the upper river, is getting tougher to call. It is still carrying an unusual amount of water for this time of year. Because the East Fork (Copper Basin) tends to contain and confine its water flow more than most, I think we are still a week or so away for good fishing conditions to exist. As for the lower river flowing at roughly 1000 cfs, it’s very difficult to work. Because of abundant water in the reservoir for farming and irrigation needs, I don’t look for much change for most of the summer. When they have the water, they will use it. Sorry, I don’t make the rules in this department.
PENNY LAKE/LAKE CREEK/GAVER’S LAGOON—Always plentiful with planted fish. A good place for the young anglers.
SOUTH FORK OF THE BOISE—To be honest, I haven’t had much of a report on the river or the Salmon Fly hatch. It is still running at 2000 cfs. That is high but certainly fishable. You just have to be careful wading. Caddis is always present and I would now be looking for serious hatches of Pink Alberts in the afternoons.
