Warmer temperatures have been in the forecast locally, and area fishing conditions will be productive under the right conditions. On select afternoons, midges have been hatching throughout the portion of Silver Creek that remains open to fishing. Long, light leaders and delicate presentations are required to fool these midging trout; 12’ – 15’ leaders tapered to 6X or 6.5X are the norm. Trailing-shuck midges, Tie-down midges, Griffith’s Gnats, and Fripple midges have all been effective patterns (size 18-22). There’s a bit of color to the creek, so streamer fishing should continue to produce. Sparkle Minnows, Zonkers, Clouser Minnows, and other baitfish imitations are very effective, as are small, dark leeches and woolly buggers. Balanced Leeches and Pine Squirrel Leeches in black are a great choice. If you decide to get in the float tube and fish Kilpatrick Pond, dress warm and don’t overdo it! As a reminder, Silver Creek remains open until the end of March on Kilpatrick Pond and on the section downstream of Highway 20.
Midge fishing is good on the Big Wood River as well. Look for foam lines and back eddies, and you will find the rising trout. Standard midge imitations, along with a tiny zebra midge dropper, are the way to go. Nymphing and streamer fishing continues to produce; while tried and true patterns are always effective (Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, Rubber Legs, etc.), don’t be afraid to show the fish something a little different!
If you’re looking to take a drive, both the Lower Big Lost River and South Fork Boise River have been productive lately under the right conditions. Again, midges, nymphs, and streamers are all producing at times.
While February is the shortest month of the year, sometimes it certainly feels like the longest! In addition to the local fishing opportunities, now is a good time to take a look at your gear and do any maintenance or replacement that’s needed.
Keep your fingers crossed for more high mountain snow, and as always, be safe out there.
Happy Fishing Everyone!