The cold winter months are slowly creeping upon us. We have certainly enjoyed a beautiful fall, with a days here and there offering a taste of what’s to come.  And although the fishing tourists have slowed and the traffic on the river is much slower, there’s still plenty of great fishing to be done!

Fall and winter fishing in East Idaho is for those of you enthusiasts ready to layer up and head out to the river. If that’s you, you know that the fishing can be extremely productive, relaxing and rewarding. Yesterday, I was visiting with Paul Beckley, one of our veteran guides who had just fished the Warm River area of the Henry’s Fork the previous day. He had a great day, catching 6-7 Browns and one Rainbow all measuring 16-20 inches. Not bad! When asked what to use at this time of year he firmly stated, ‘Baetis, Baetis, Batis! Basically, if you throw one any place on any section of water running west you’re going to catch something.’ Nothing like the honesty of a fly fishing guide… And he’s right.

From now pretty much through he rest of the winter, your go-to flies will be baetis, nymphs, emergers, zebra midge, blue winged olives, and of course streamers. Starting the first of December many river sections on the Henry’s Fork and other Snake River Tributaries will begin closing, but there are many fantastic spots you can fish all winter long.

Before you head out though, it’s always a good idea to check the Idaho Fish and Game regulations to determine if the section you’ll be fishing is open. Here’s a link to the Special Rule Waters For the Upper Snake Region on the Idaho Fish and Game website. Be sure to look at pages 37 & 38.

You can also call or stop into our Ashton Fly Shop or our Driggs Fly Shop for this information as well as a great selection of flies and gear.

Interested in a guided day trip? We are currently running a Special “Off Season” Day Trip Rate of $450 based on double occupancy/shared guide. That’s a $65 savings to you! Call to book your trip today! In Ashton, (208) 652-3008 or in Driggs, (208) 354-1200.