3,410 cfs ↓
75°F · Warm
Falling
7d ago
Grasshoppers and terrestrials heavy, size 12, prime time 11 AM - 4 PM
Conditions
Low, clear summer conditions are the norm on the Salmon right now, with smoke occasionally diffusing midday light. Fish are most active early morning and evening when terrestrials like grasshoppers and ants dominate, though caddis, PMDs, and BWOs fill the early and late windows. As of August 26, flows were running 3,410 cfs at White Bird—well below typical summer levels—so confirm current conditions before heading out. Water temperature sits at 75°F, putting the river in thermal stress; consider fishing dawn or dusk to protect fish, and target cooler riffles or work nymphs slowly during the warmest part of the day. Stealth and precise casts on light tippet are essential in clear water.
Gauges
Live cameras
Techniques
- Evening BWO and caddis spinner fall on flat water; switch to small dries and emergers in slow glides and tailouts, 5:30 PM - Dusk
- Prime terrestrial window 11 AM - 3 PM; work hoppers and ants hard against shaded grassy banks while smoke diffuses midday sun
- Early caddis and PMD activity on riffles; use tight-line nymphing and dry fly in low light before heat builds, 6:30 AM - 10 AM