The lower Lost River through Mackay continues to fish very well, but it’s a good idea to check river flows prior to making the trip. As of this writing, flows below the dam are hovering at 93 CFS. Once flows creep up towards 250–300 CFS, wading (and river access) becomes much more challenging. Nymphing is quite productive now, with standard patterns such as small Copper Johns, Rainbow Warriors, Brassies, Zebra Midges, Perdigons, and Pheasant Tails taking plenty of fish. Sizes 16–22 are most effective. Most afternoons see good Blue-Winged Olive activity, so anglers should be prepared with their favorite patterns (again, sizes 16–22).
Steelhead season on the Salmon River closes at the end of April, and anglers are reporting success on select days. Look for mild, overcast days, and be mindful of spawning fish and spawning redds. It’s more effective to fish egg-sucking leeches, stonefly nymphs, and black or purple woolly buggers through runs and pools.
Silver Creek downstream of the Highway 20 bridge continues to fish extremely well, with excellent streamer, BWO, and midge activity on the Creek. Remember that north of the Highway 20 bridge Silver Creek remains closed, but the downstream section is now open year-round.
Magic Reservoir, Little Wood Reservoir, Mackay Reservoir, Anderson Ranch Reservoir, and Carey Lake are all fishing well. Don’t forget your leech patterns for any of these fisheries.
Picabo Angler will host our annual Opening Weekend Party on Friday, May 23rd at 5 p.m., on the airstrip behind the shop. We’ll have live music, food, drinks, raffles, and booths from all our gear vendors. Don’t miss it!
Happy fishing, everyone!
