Big Lost River below Inlet Diversion near Arco
USGS 13132520 · Oct 18, 2026, 5:00 PM
Every 60 min · daylight
Updated
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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.
Same gauge as Around Mackay Res, part 1.
Reads North Fork Big Lost River at Wild Horse near Chilly ID, which is not listed on this page.
More stations on the river
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, so 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 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 latest fishing conditions and hatch notes for Big Lost River. Older reports live in the Big Lost River report archive.
No newer report yet; conditions may have changed.
The Big Lost River is fishing great across both upper and lower sections, with strong Golden Stonefly, Little Yellow Sally, and PMD hatches in play.
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.
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
Fishing guides, outfitters, shuttles, and shops that operate on the Big Lost River.
USGS 13132520 · Oct 18, 2026, 5:00 PM
Every 60 min · daylight
USGS 13132500 · Oct 18, 2026, 5:00 PM
Every 60 min · daylight
USGS 13130300 · Oct 18, 2026, 5:00 PM
Every 60 min · 247
USGS 13127000 · Nov 7, 2025, 10:00 AM
Every 60 min · 247