We hope that all of you had a very Happy New Year! Thank you to all our friends, clients and customers for making 2025 a wonderful year at Picabo Angler. We wish you all good health, happiness, and plenty of fish for 2026.
Recent rains have brought flows up on Silver Creek, equating to good fishing. Given the mild weather, there has been midge activity during mild afternoons, and fishing with streamers and leeches has been quite productive. Start with the old adage “dark day, dark fly and bright day, bright fly,” but don’t be afraid to experiment. Of course, a black leech pattern is the “go-to” fly on Silver Creek during the winter. Remember that The Nature Conservancy is closed to fishing; Kilpatrick Pond and the Creek downstream of the Highway 20 bridge remain open.
It’s a bit cold on the Big Wood River during the morning, so concentrate your fishing during the warmest part of the day. Ski in the morning, and fish in the afternoon – the “Swish and Fish.” Nymphing with tiny midge pupa imitations, BWO nymphs, and small black stonefly imitations is the way to go. Trout love to school up during the winter in slower, softer water; find a few of these winter holes and you can be into fish all day long. Look for possible midge activity during the afternoons, specifically along foam lines and within back eddies.
The lower Big Lost River is running at approximately 60 CFS, and good fishing can be had for anglers willing to make the long drive through Arco on to Mackay. Fish the same patterns that you would on the Big Wood River, and use long, light leaders and approach fish cautiously.
The South Fork of the Boise River has been fishing well for those willing to make the trek. Winter flows are stable at 300 CFS. Before you go, check the road conditions and the weather; the road into the canyon can be treacherous during heavy snow, ice, and bad weather. Don’t forget your tire chains, survival kit, and extra food and water. Nymphing is the name of the game right now, and it’s hard to beat a big stonefly nymph followed by your favorite midge pupa. A big, meaty streamer fished low and slow in some of the deeper holes can produce a big fish or two.
Don’t forget to purchase your 2026 Idaho fishing license.
Happy fishing, everyone!
