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Silver Creek has been tough lately. We have had some really cold nights, which has led to very cold water temps. This tends to shut down the fish activity when the temps drop this low. Fish tend to get a lot more particular about when they feed.
Over the next few weeks we should see the water really start to color up; with that stained water comes some fantastic streamer fishing. Last year, February and March were outstanding, and we expect much of the same this year.
Remember that Silver Creek Preserve is closed for the year, which leaves Kilpatrick Pond and the water below Highway 20 open to fishing.
The Big Wood River is fishing very well lately. The nymph fishing has been the ticket for numbers, but this time of year can be a great time to tempt some of the larger fish in the system. On very cold days, try fishing a small leech or sculpin pattern underneath an indicator; this technique can be extremely effective in the winter months when the water temps are really cold. Days when the water temp jumps, try fishing the sculpin or leech on a swing or active retrieve. Even if it’s just a small jump in water temp, sometimes it can make a world of difference.
The lower Big Lost River is a very good option right now and worth the extra travel time. Very little to no surface activity yet, but the nymphing has been great. It seems the fish are less focused on pattern and more focused on proper presentation and depth. Having a selection of Midge and mayfly nymphs in sizes 16-22 in varying weights should be all one needs.
The South Fork of the Boise has been fishing great. Keep an eye on weather, as the drive down into the canyon can be tough this time of year. Having a vehicle with 4-wheel-drive is a must, and chains are recommended. The road is maintained throughout the winter but can be treacherous on the wrong day.
The nymph fishing has been producing most consistently. Try throwing a heavy stonefly or cranefly nymph along with a small Midge pattern. Fishing streamers like egg-sucking leeches or sculpins can also have success. This river is definitely worth the trip; even on the slowest days you can usually count on a few whitefish to bend the rod.
