Idaho Steelhead Fishing Report
Provided by ------------------------------------------
Updated March 11th, 2010Clearwater River (Orofino Stream Flows)
Steelhead fishing is still fair in the lower river but it's best up the South Fork and should remain that way as long as the rain doesn't blow things out, so be sure and check the flows before you go. With projected warmer than normal temperatures and rain or snow in the forecast the climbing water temperature and flows could improve the fishing. Of course again, that's as long as the river doesn't muddy up and rise too fast, then all bets are off. A map showing the boundaries is available on Page 70 of the current Idaho Fishing Seasons and Rules booklet.
Little Salmon River (Riggins Stream Flow)
A few more fish have been caught on the Little Salmon and the water levels are slowly rising so you know what that means. As long as it doesn't come up too fast the fishing will do nothing but improve. Again, watch the flows and if it doesn't come up too fast and get too muddy then be ready to grab your rock.
Lower Salmon River ( Whitebird Stream Flow)
Anglers are still catching fish throughout the Salmon River system. Most of them are drifting bobbers with small jigs or drift fishing bait; even a few fly casters are taking fish. The majority of the fish in the lower river are still coming from between the confluence of the Little Salmon upstream to Vinegar Creek but anglers are even catching a lot of fish from Whitebird upstream to Riggins. Again most anglers are using bait like roe or shrimp, but jigs, plugs, and flies are also catching fish.
Upper Salmon River (Salmon Stream Flow)
All the fishing here is doing is improving. Anglers are catching fish, a lot of fish, everywhere from Vinegar Creek all the way to the North Fork and beyond. Most fishermen are drifting eggs or jigs, but plugs are working in the lower section and flies are even working in the upper stretch. It's a long way to go but if you're into smaller streams with plenty of access then this is a dynamite place to go steelhead fishing. Just so you know, you won't be alone.
Hells Canyon on the Snake River (Lewiston to Hells Canyon Stream Flows)
Well it's a cinch the erratic flows aren't going to change, but the fishing might. While the flows do cause some problems for bank fishermen, if you're persistent and patient you can find a window to fish in and the fish are there so don't let that stop you. The fishing has been a little more predictable for boat anglers who are still catching fish, especially around the confluence of the Salmon River. Sand shrimp seems to be the number one bait for both bank and boat fishermen, but plain ole' small jigs under a bobber will catch fish and backtrolling bright colored plugs will work as well.
