South Fork of the Snake River Fly Fishing Report - July 7/19/2025

South Fork of the Snake River Fly Fishing Report

SOUTH FORK OF THE SNAKE RIVER FLY FISHING REPORT

Idaho's Premier Fly Fishing Destination

Report Date: July 19, 2025  |  Next Update: July 26, 2025

Current River Conditions

Excellent conditions for summer fly fishing! Water flows are moderate with clear water providing good visibility. Water temperatures are steady in the low 50s°F, ideal for active trout feeding. The weather is warm and sunny with light wind, favorable for both wading and floating.
Flows & Clarity
Flow Rate: ~1,580 CFS (USGS near Irwin)
Water Clarity: Clear (~3 ft visibility)
Source: Palisades Dam releases stabilized
Water Temperature
Current: 52°F (11°C)
Daily Range: 50–54°F
Trend: Stable, perfect for trout activity
Weather Conditions
Forecast: Sunny, highs near 65°F, lows around 40°F
Wind: Light (less than 5 mph)
Conditions: Warm days with cool evenings
Access Points
All public accesses open
Boat ramps operational: Conant, Byington, Lorenzo
Road conditions good, wading safe in side channels but main channel current strong

Hatch Chart & Insect Activity

Insect Size Activity Level Prime Time
Pale Morning Duns (PMDs) #16–18 Moderate ⭐⭐⭐ Morning
Terrestrials (Ants, Beetles) #12–16 Moderate ⭐⭐⭐ Afternoon
Caddisflies #14–16 Light ⭐⭐ Evening
Mayflies (Mahogany Duns) #14–16 Light ⭐⭐ Evening (sporadic)

Recommended Flies

Tactics & Tips

Early Morning: Focus on nymphing deep runs and tailouts using Pheasant Tail and PMD patterns with long leaders.
Midday & Afternoon: Switch to terrestrials such as ants and beetles near banks and trailing foam lines for surface feeding trout.
Evening: Casting dry caddis and evening mahogany duns into quieter pools can produce great results.
Streamer Fishing: Effective throughout the day along structure like log jams and deep pools with sculpin and leech imitations.
Use 5-6 weight rods with 9-12 ft leaders to present flies delicately to wary trout.