General Conditions:
With school back in session and late-summer smoke lingering in the air, we’re beginning to look ahead to cooler days. As major summer hatches taper off, anglers are now finding trout keyed in on smaller insects across Southern Idaho. The most productive fishing continues to be during the mornings and evenings when water temperatures are lower. Be sure to monitor stream temps mid-day — once water exceeds 65–68°F, keep fish in the water during release and consider shifting your efforts to later in the evening for the health of the fishery.
Local Tailwaters (Owyhee River , Boise River-In Town, South Fork Boise River)
Nymphing continues to be the most reliable approach as we move into late summer. Heavier beaded nymphs such as Blowtorches, Duracells, and Jigged Hare’s Ears fished under an indicator, paired with smaller imitative patterns, are producing well. Effective trailers include #20–22 Zebra Midges, #18–20 Split Case BWOs, #18–20 Slim Shadys, #18-20 Rainbow Warriors, and Rubber Legs (SFB only). Adding split shot helps get flies into the primary feeding zone.
For those looking to fish dries, expect Trico activity in the mornings along with sporadic caddis and smaller mayfly spinner falls in the evenings. Keep an eye out for Pink Cahills, BWOs, and Baetis. Hopper fishing should remain an option for a few more weeks, and October Caddis are just around the corner — now is a great time to stock up.
Snake River
Bass fishing on the Snake River continues to be productive throughout the summer months. Fly anglers can expect plenty of action by targeting aggressive smallmouth and largemouth bass with poppers, mouse patterns, and streamers.
Carp fishing is also an excellent option right now. For those missing the thrill of bonefish, Idaho’s carp offer a challenging and rewarding alternative. These wary fish demand stealth and precision—delicate presentations with dries, leeches, or specialized carp flies will significantly improve your chances. With fish commonly exceeding 20 pounds, carp provide one of the most exciting and underrated freshwater fly-fishing opportunities in the region.
Stillwater
We’re approaching the transition back into productive lake fishing. Warm summer conditions, algae blooms, and deep-holding trout make most lakes challenging right now, but opportunities will improve with cooler weather.
Alpine lakes remain a strong option for late-summer trout fishing — a great way to escape the heat while exploring Idaho’s backcountry. Make sure to carry a variety of Woolly Buggers, hoppers, Parachute Adams, Purple Haze, chironomids, and balanced leeches.
Duck Valley and other regional lakes will soon turn on for exceptional early fall fishing. Be sure to stock up on leeches and chironomids, and watch for our updated chironomid selection arriving at Idaho Angler this fall.
Steelhead
Steelhead season is here for some and quickly approaching for others. Passage numbers look promising for the fall and winter. Stop by Idaho Angler and shop our brand-new selection of expertly tied Steelhead flies by Dave Tucker and get geared up for the season ahead. Check out our selection of Spey Rods, Reels, and Lines and ensure you are prepared to find that "fish of 1,000 casts"
Additional Notes:
Welcome to our new online home! We will be updating our fishing reports bi-weekly so that you have the most up-to-date information on our local waters. We encourage you to visit our NEW online store. If you are a local to the Treasure Valley, you will now have the option to buy online, and pick up in store. If you wish to have your items shipped to you, you can count on a speedy delivery!