Some gorgeous fall weather is in the forecast for the next week or so, and the local fishing should be wonderful.
Silver Creek shines during autumn. The fall bugs will hatch during the most pleasant part of the day, and the surrounding scenery on the creek is breathtaking. We’re seeing excellent hatches of small Baetis (size 20 – 24) on the entirety of Silver Creek. The October Caddis and Mahogany Duns should pick up, and blind fishing an orange or tan Stimulator, Goddard Caddis or Elk-Hair Caddis in size 10 – 14 can be incredibly effective on breezy fall days. Midges are becoming more prominent on the creek as well, and will continue to do so as the season progresses. Small Griffith Gnats, Parachute Midges and Tie-Down Midges in sizes 18 – 24 work well on the creek when paired with long, fine leaders.
The resident brown trout will soon begin to key in on spawning, so be aware of redds and spawning fish. Focus your attention on actively feeding fish, and if you’re tossing streamers, look to the deeper slots, undercut banks and troughs on the creek. A day spent on the creek this time of year can be magical – ducks are flying, elk are bugling, and moose are on the move.
The Big Wood River is another gem. Again, small Baetis and midges are the ticket on the river right now if you’re in search of some dry fly fishing. Nymphing is extremely productive this time of year on the Wood, and fishing streamers on the lower river is the way to go when you are in search of big fish. Our custom-tied Coffey’s Sparkle Minnow is deadly.
Fishing on the lower Big Lost River remains strong, and at the risk of sounding like a broken record, Baetis, midges, and nymphing will be your best bet. A big cranefly nymph, rubberlegs, or Hare’s Ear followed by a small zebra midge or Baetis nymph is a good choice. If you’re interested in some solitude, amazing scenery, and a couple of hours of good fishing, it’s worth hitting the upper Big Lost one last time before the weather shuts it down for the season.
Now is a great time to be an angler in the Valley!
Happy fishing , everyone!