Fireworks on the water
The South Fork of the Snake is celebrating Independence Day with some hatches worthy of their own fireworks show. Salmon Flies, Green Drakes, PMDs, and Yellow Sallies are all popping, offering anglers a smorgasbord of dry fly opportunities.
The Salmon Fly hatch is now entering the canyon section and may slow slightly with the cooler, wetter weather in the forecast. That said, don’t be surprised if some of the big bugs push into the upper river before the weekend is over—especially with a little afternoon warmth.
With so many insects on the menu, there are lots of ways to fish right now. We recommend rigging up a 5 or 6 weight with a big foam dry. Droppers are optional—it’s the classic catch-22: add a dropper to pick up a few extra fish, or go solo to fish that dry tighter to structure with a twitch.
You’ll also want a lighter setup, like a 4 or 5 weight, with a Yellow Sally or PMD for riffles, foam lines, and recirculating eddies. And if the fish aren’t looking up, don’t be afraid to throw a size 2 or 4 Salmon Fly nymph under an indicator—especially in big drops, behind rocks, and other deeper holding water.
This is one of the best times of the year to fish the South Fork, and nearly any tactic will produce. Just remember: be safe, be courteous at the ramps, and take a moment to appreciate this incredible river we’re lucky to fish.
Happy 4th of July from all of us at the Lodge!
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