In just over three weeks Silver Creek and other local fisheries will open for the 2023 season. Here in the Wood River valley area we have been fortunate to have a huge winter and a healthy snowpack, and the 2023 season is shaping up to be a great one. If you haven’t made plans to come out here and fish Silver Creek, the Big Wood River, the Salmon River, or the Big Lost River, do so now!
When the season opens on May 27, don’t expect solitude if you plan to fish Silver Creek. With all freestone rivers running high and dirty, Silver Creek will be our most prominent fishery for the month of June… and likely into July. While the creek will certainly be popular, plenty of water is available for all anglers.
For Silver Creek, be sure to have a good selection of BWOs, PMDs, Callibaetis, ants, and beetles, and don’t be afraid to throw a streamer or mouse pattern during low-light conditions. Here at the shop we’ve got plenty of new, exciting patterns on hand.
We’ll start our annual brown drake watch at the opener. Keep your eyes on our fishing report and social media for up-to-date drake info.
As of this writing, the Big Lost River below Mackay remains fishable at 255 CFS. Don’t make the long drive (Trail Creek Pass is still closed) without checking stream flows first. Above 300-350 CFS, wading on the lower Lost becomes quite difficult. Look for good midge and BWO activity in the afternoons and be equipped with your favorite tailwater nymphs such as zebra midges, copper johns, and princes.
The Picabo Angler Opening Weekend Party begins on Friday, May 26 at 5 p.m. Sawtooth Brewery will be on hand to provide great local beers, and the kitchen at Picabo Angler will feature a great dinner. There will be plenty of great raffles, events, games, and leading flyfishing manufacturers and representatives at the party. Our fly shop will be bursting with new products. You don’t want to miss this event! Keep an eye out on our social media channels or give us a call at the shop for more information. The party will happen rain or shine!
Happy fishing, everyone!