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. While the numbers of October Caddis and Mahogany Duns are variable depending on the day, blind fishing these patterns is still productive. In particular, fishing an orange or tan Stimulator, Goddard Caddis, or Elk-Hair Caddis in size 10 or 12 can be 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’s 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 are beginning to really 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. Get out there and enjoy it!
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. Coffey’s Sparkle Minnow in the sculpin color is a great choice!
Fishing on the upper Big Lost River and Salmon River remains strong during the warmest part of the day, 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 hours of good fishing, it’s worth hitting the upper Big Lost or Salmon River one last time before the weather shuts it down for the season.
Happy fishing, everyone!
