Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Big Lost - Arco - Idaho

Hatch Chart - Best Access/Spots - Local Fish - About

Water Flow Chart

Using Water Flow Charts & Weather Reports: Begin with our water flow charts to grasp stream velocity and volume – look for stable or rising trends to pinpoint ideal fishing times. Learn to interpret sudden spikes or drops, which can indicate potential challenges. Next, consult our weather reports to understand ambient conditions. Pairing the two, you can anticipate fish behavior, choose the right gear, and select the best fishing spots. Use these tools together for a holistic approach to your next fishing adventure.

In-Depth Weather

Directions To Location

Hatch Chart

Month Hatch Time of Day Recommended Fly Sizes Popular Fly Patterns
January Midge Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
February Midge Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
March Blue Winged Olive, Midge Afternoon 18-20, 18-22 Revised Baetis, Zebra Midge
April Blue Winged Olive, Caddis, Midge Afternoon 16-20, 18-22 Revised Baetis, Elk Hair Caddis, Zebra Midge
May Caddis, Blue Winged Olive, Craneflies Afternoon 14-18, 16-20, 10-12 Elk Hair Caddis, Revised Baetis, Gummy Crane Fly
June Yellow Sallies, Pale Morning Duns, Caddis Afternoon 14-16, 16-18, 14-18 Ice Dub Yellow Sally, Sparkle Dun PMD, Elk Hair Caddis
July Tricos, Caddis, Yellow Sallies, Hoppers Morning, Afternoon 20-24, 14-18, 14-16, 10-12 Black Spinner, Elk Hair Caddis, Ice Dub Yellow Sally, Foam Hopper
August Tricos, Hoppers, Beetles, Caddis Morning, Afternoon 20-24, 10-12, 14-16, 14-18 Black Spinner, Foam Hopper, Foam Beetle, Elk Hair Caddis
September Mahogany Duns, Hoppers, Tricos Morning, Afternoon 16-18, 10-12, 20-24 Parachute Adams, Foam Hopper, Black Spinner
October Blue Winged Olive, Mahogany Duns Afternoon 18-20, 16-18 Revised Baetis, Parachute Adams
November Blue Winged Olive, Midge Afternoon 18-20, 18-22 Revised Baetis, Zebra Midge
December Midge Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat

While we strive to ensure the precision of our hatch charts, some reflect broader river region insights. Through ongoing partnerships with local guides and fly shops, we’re committed to refining our data. Should you notice any inconsistencies or have feedback, we welcome you to reach out. 

Best Fishing Spots

The Big Lost in Arco provides some of the best spots for fly fishing, each with its unique characteristics.

  • East Fork: This area is perfect for those who value solitude. It offers plenty of cutthroat and rainbow trout.
  • Main Section: This section is renowned for its whitefish and a healthy population of trout. It’s easily accessible and offers amazing scenic views.
  • Wildhorse Creek: Positioned in the Pioneer Mountains, this spot is ideal for those adventurous anglers who crave mountainous terrains. Brown and cutthroat trout are the main attractions here.
  • Copper Basin: This spot is home to cutthroat, rainbow, and brook trout. It’s a remote area ideal for camping and multiday fishing excursions.
  • North Fork: Perfect for fly fishing beginners. It has a low gradient with smaller fish species but is the perfect place to perfect your casting skills.

Best Access Points

The Big Lost – Arco region in Idaho is renowned for its exceptional fly fishing. The following are some of the best access points for fly fishing:

  • Copper Basin: Reachable by a decent access road, this high-mountain plateau offers many small cuts and brooks that are teeming with local trout species.

  • Pioneer Mountains: This remote spot provides a wild and rugged fly fishing experience. It’s accessible from Trail Creek road.

  • Wild Horse Creek: Located at the base of the east side of the Pioneers, this creek can be accessed via Wildhorse Canyon road.

  • Pass Creek and Star Hope: These two streams provide great off-the-beaten-path spots for those willing to hike and explore a bit.

  • Headwaters: The numerous small tributaries present in this area offer some of the best fly-fishing opportunities, with access points scattered along highway 93.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout: The most abundant species in Big Lost, providing ample opportunities for fly fishing.
  • Brook Trout: Abundant in smaller sizes but provide a great fighting spirit.
  • Brown Trout: Grow to large sizes and provide a strong fight, making them a favourite among experienced anglers.
  • Mountain Whitefish: A smaller species, fun to catch on a light fly rod.
  • Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: Native to the area, offers a thrilling fishing experience.
  • Hybrid Trout: Cross between Rainbow and Cutthroat, prized for their size and fight.
  • White Sturgeon: The biggest fish in the river, catch and release only.
  • Golden Trout: Rare and highly prized by anglers, found in high-altitude lakes and streams.

About The River

Discover the flavorful history of Big Lost – Arco! Nestled in the sweeping beauty of Idaho, this bewitching town serves up a distinctive blend of history, community, and scenic wilderness. Arco was the first city globally powered by atomic energy, testifying to its legacy of technological innovation.

No discussion about Big Lost – Arco’s history can ignore the mesmerizing Craters of the Moon National Monument, a preserved volcanic landscape that provides an ethereal backdrop to daily life. Key historical moments include:

  • In 1901 Arco became a city.
  • In 1955 it became the “Atomic City” when lights were powered by nuclear energy.
  • The Idaho National Laboratory was set up in 1965, an institution that continues to strengthen our understanding of nuclear technology.

Apart from advanced technology, the community’s bond is also best known for its annual traditions like the Atomic Days, which includes a spud-tug (potato pulling competition), tickling one’s sense of joy.

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