Flow
10,600 cfs
Water Temp
55°F · Prime temp
Trend
Steady
Observed
7d ago
Conditions
Early steelhead are moving into the system as cooler water arrives, offering a welcome alternative to the warm Snake and Columbia downstream. As of August 26, flows were stable around 10,600 cfs at Spalding with water temperatures holding in the prime mid-50s. Steelhead are spreading throughout the main stem; trout are tucked into softer edges and seams. Skated flies can draw strikes, but also consider Scandi and mid-belly setups for steelhead, or go lighter with intermediate polyleaders and dry-dropper rigs for trout in the slower water.
Gauges
Live cameras
Techniques
- Scandi and mid-belly setups, intermediate polyleader or light sink tip for depth adjustment; dry-dropper for trout in softer edges, seams, and slower water
- Floating lines and skated flies are the ticket for steelhead
Recommended flies
skated fliesScandi setupsmid-belly setupsintermediate polyleaderlight sink tipdry-dropper
