Big Lost River below Inlet Diversion near Arco
USGS 13132520 · Sep 3, 2026, 11:00 AM
Every 60 min · daylight
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Idaho Rivers › Upper Snake
A scenic mountain-to-valley trout stream with classic wading water above Mackay and productive reaches through the Big Lost drainage.
A scenic mountain-to-valley trout stream with classic wading water above Mackay and productive reaches through the Big Lost drainage. Explore seasonal hatches, access points, and current flow conditions below.
Best Season
Late spring through fall, with especially good fishing from runoff drop through summer and another strong window on fall baetis days.
River Type
High-desert mountain drainage with freestone character, varied public access, and some flow-sensitive lower reaches.
Skill Level
Intermediate to advanced overall; easier roadside access around Mackay, with more technical wading and reading water in upper reaches.
Best Techniques
Dry-dropper rigs, nymphing through riffles and runs, attractor dries during stonefly and caddis periods, and streamers in fall or during higher water.
Access
Access is spread through the drainage, including reaches near Mackay and upstream toward Copper Basin. IDFG notes toilets, campgrounds, and ADA access at some sites; use the Fishing Planner map for site-specific access details.
Primary stations
Related stations
Explore fish species associated with the Big Lost River. Each profile includes identification tips, habitat notes, and practical fishing guidance for Idaho anglers.
Review seasonal insect hatches on the Big Lost River, including timing windows and fly pattern suggestions for Idaho fly fishing.
Check current seasons, limits, and special rules for Big Lost River before you go. Regulations change — always verify with IDFG.
The latest fishing conditions and hatch notes for Big Lost River. Older reports live in the Big Lost River report archive.
These YouTube videos have been hand-curated by our team because we feel they best represent the Big Lost River fishery. Watch for river character, access context, and techniques that translate to your next Idaho trip.
Map data © Mapbox © OpenStreetMap
The latest fishing conditions and hatch notes for Big Lost River. Older reports live in the Big Lost River report archive.
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Low, clear water makes the Big Lost accessible but demands stealth and smart timing. Fish the morning window hard when Tricos and small mayflies are active.
The Big Lost River supports 5 fish species in our Idaho fishing catalog. Browse each profile for identification tips, seasonal patterns, and how these species are managed on this water.
The Big Lost River has 11 documented insect hatches across spring, summer, fall, and winter. Review seasonal timing and recommended fly patterns to plan productive days on this Idaho water.
Fishing guides, outfitters, shuttles, and shops that operate on the Big Lost River.
These 7 YouTube videos have been hand-curated by our team because we feel they best represent the Big Lost River fishery. Each pick highlights river character, access, and techniques worth knowing before you fish this Idaho water.
Roam And Reel
Apr 25, 2021
Idaho Mountain Anglers
Aug 6, 2020
Nate Armstrong
Aug 5, 2020
Nate Armstrong
Jul 28, 2020
Purple Drake Fishing
Nov 29, 2019
Fly fishing sun valley
Dec 8, 2016
Hidden Earth USA
Jan 20, 2026
USGS 13132520 · Sep 3, 2026, 11:00 AM
Every 60 min · daylight
USGS 13132500 · Sep 3, 2026, 11:00 AM
Every 60 min · daylight
USGS 13130300 · Sep 3, 2026, 11:00 AM
Every 60 min · 247
USGS 13127000 · Nov 7, 2025, 10:00 AM
Every 60 min · 247