No flow
53d ago
Tricos and Baetis are the main midmorning fare, and craneflies are always a good option
Conditions
The Big Lost will run low and clear through early September, making the river highly accessible but requiring careful stealth and deliberate movement. Deeper greenish runs and edges will hold the best fish, particularly in the morning when cooler temperatures extend the productive window. Expect Tricos and Baetis in midmorning, along with small mayflies, caddis, hoppers, flying ants, and craneflies. Afternoon fishing slows dramatically, so plan accordingly and keep your fly selection mobile to match what's happening on the water.
Gauges
Live cameras
Big Lost River below Inlet Diversion near Arco
USGS 13132520 · Oct 18, 2026, 5:00 PM
Every 60 min · daylight
Big Lost River near Arco
USGS 13132500 · Oct 18, 2026, 5:00 PM
Every 60 min · daylight
Big Lost River near Leslie
USGS 13130300 · Oct 18, 2026, 5:00 PM
Every 60 min · 247
Big Lost River bl Mackay Res nr Mackay
Last updatedUSGS 13127000 · Nov 7, 2025, 10:00 AM
Every 60 min · 247
Techniques
- In the afternoon, the fishing slows down dramatically, but nymphing will still produce
- To find fish, focus on the deeper, greenish runs and be prepared to cover a lot of ground
- It is much cooler in the mornings so no need to start early; give the trout and bugs a chance to warm up
