Thanks as always for checking in with a fishing report from The Lodge at Palisades Creek.
River Conditions
Flows out of the South Fork of the Snake are sitting at 12,000 cfs, with Palisades Reservoir at 18% capacity. For context, typical flows this time of year run about 9,700 cfs, and we were at 12,200 cfs this time last year — so a little higher than normal, but just under where we were a year ago.
Weather: Exactly What We Needed
As I write this, rain is just starting to move into the Swan Valley area, with a high of only 74 degrees today and a 90% chance of showers and thunderstorms. This is just what our fishery needed after some hot, smoky days.
The pattern holds through the weekend — showers and storms likely tonight with a low around 48, Friday topping out near 70 with an 80% chance of rain, and Saturday partly sunny near 73 with showers likely after noon. Sunday looks like the sun comes back, but with a high of just 77 it should be a pleasant day to be on the river.
The Word From Our Guides
Rain and cooler temperatures are certain to help the fishing no matter what fly you tie on, but we’ll definitely see increased activity from PMDs, Blue-Winged Olives, and Mahogany Duns. The rain will bring off more mayflies, and the fish should be considerably more aggressive toward big foam.
Nothing improves the fishing this time of year more than a cool, cloudy day.
Tactics
Mutant Golden Stones, hoppers, beetles, and ants are all worth having tied on, and streamers should fish well in this light. If you get a chance to get out today, Friday, or Saturday, take it.
At the Fly Shop & Lodge
If you need flies, last-minute lodging, dinner, or a guide, give us a call: 208-483-2222.
We’ll see you on the water.