Big Lost River

Outlook · Sep 2–9

Big Lost River

Current conditions for Big Lost River · Map, access and gauges

Flow

Normal

Observed

4h ago

Hatch Status

Tricos mixed with Baetis hatching as day warms up, and giant crane flies skittered across the surface

Conditions

Expect low, clear conditions across the Big Lost through early September, with flows continuing to drop into seasonal lows. Tricos and Baetis will dominate midday into late afternoon, when the water warms enough to trigger activity; giant crane flies are worth trying on dries, and nymphing small Baetis and midge patterns remains productive even when afternoon hatches thin. Cold headwaters fish best during that midday window, where a Hecuba hatch is possible if temperatures stay cool. Afternoon bug activity slows as evening sets in, but the window from late morning through dusk offers your best shot.

Gauges

Live cameras

Techniques

  • Fishing is best from the middle of the day into the late afternoon
  • In the afternoon, bug activity slows but nymphing is still productive with small Baetis or midge patterns

Recommended flies

TricosBaetis 18-20Crane FliesMidge 20-24Red QuillsCaddisHecubaStreamers