Main Stem Snake River

Flow changes and downstream effects. As reservoir water is released, many trout take a one-way trip through the dam, which is risky business for a trout where some are lost to turbine strikes; others bolster the fishery below the dam. To refill the reservoir, winter flows on the Snake River (December–January) drop to less than 10% of typical summer (June–August) flows. Flow below American Falls Dam is about 300 cfs.  This fall, flows are about 2% of the 2025 peak to accommodate repair work at Minidoka Dam. Winter is already the hardest season for trout survival; reduced discharge can further limit habitat overwinter and may also impact fisheries. Streamer and wooly bugger patterns presented on sink tip lines remain best way for action almost anywhere on the river. Walk-in locations are numerous.