Browse Idaho Fishing Reports

The Lochsa has dropped to 427 cfs and settled into late-summer low-water patterns, with trout holding tight to pocket water and riffles. Surface activity is increasing, so work small dries over softer seams and feed a jig nymph beneath.

The Saint Joe is among the best summer dry-fly options in the region right now, with stable flows and concentrated trout in predictable lanes. Morning fishing before 2 p.m. is most productive.

The Selway is running stable at summer levels with good dry-fly potential. Fish classic holding water and match Yellow Sallies, caddis, and terrestrials.

South Fork Boise River is running clear and cold at 1200 cfs with afternoon pinks and evening caddis active—a prime window for dropper rigs and buggy dries.

Flows are stable around 6,000 cfs with cooling conditions and rain on tap. PMDs, Blue-Winged Olives, and terrestrials should draw fish.

Covers Aug 12–19

Low flows make the Big Lost challenging but rewarding for anglers willing to fish small and precise. Morning Tricos give way to hoppers and selective mayfly patterns as the water warms.

Multiple summer hatches—Mutant Stones, PMDs, Yellow Sallies, and Caddis—are active on the South Fork, with stable flows around 5,950 cfs and comfortable 67°F water. Both dry and nymph tactics are worth exploring.

The Clearwater is holding normal flows with cold, prime water temperature. Steelhead returns are running low.