Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Big Wood - Ketchum - 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 Midges Late Morning to Early Afternoon 18-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
February Midges Late Morning to Early Afternoon 18-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
March Midges, Blue Winged Olives Late Morning to Late Afternoon 18-20 RS2, Pheasant Tail, Zebra Midge
April Midges Late Morning to Early Afternoon 18-22 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
Blue Winged Olives Mid Afternoon 16-20 RS2, Parachute Adams, BWO Emerger
May Blue Winged Olives Mid Afternoon 16-20 Parachute Adams, BWO Emerger
Salmonflies All Day 6-8 Stimulators, Rogue Foam Salmonfly
June Salmonflies All Day 6-8 Rogue Foam Salmonfly, Pat's Rubber Legs
Green Drakes Mid to Late Afternoon 10-12 Paradrake, Green Drake Cripple
Yellow Sallies Afternoon to Dusk 14-16 Yellow Humpy, Yellow Sally Stonefly
July Green Drakes Mid Afternoon 10-12 Paradrake, Green Drake Cripple
Yellow Sallies Afternoon to Dusk 14-16 Yellow Humpy, Yellow Sally Stonefly
Terrestrials All Day 10-12, 16-20 Chubby Chernobyl, Hopper Patterns
August Green Drakes Mid Afternoon 10-12 Paradrake, Green Drake Cripple
Mahogany Duns Late Afternoon 14-16 Parachute Mahogany Dun, Comparadun
Terrestrials All Day 10-12, 16-20 Chubby Chernobyl, Hopper Patterns
September Mahogany Duns Late Afternoon 14-16 Parachute Mahogany Dun, Comparadun
Terrestrials All Day 10-12, 16-20 Chubby Chernobyl, Hopper Patterns
October Blue Winged Olives Mid Afternoon 16-20 RS2, Parachute Adams, BWO Emerger
November Midges Late Morning to Early Afternoon 18-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge
December Midges Late Morning to Early Afternoon 18-24 Griffith's Gnat, Zebra Midge

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

One of the state’s preeminent waters for fly fishing, Big Wood River in Ketchum, Idaho offers many opportunities for avid anglers. Here are some recommended spots:

  • Near Sun Valley Lodge: This tailwater stretch at the base of the Sun Valley ski area is a great starting point for fly fishing.
  • Warm Springs Creek: This tributary of Big Wood River provides excellent spots to cast a line especially in the early season and during mayfly hatches.
  • Trail Creek: Though it’s smaller than the main river, Trail Creek’s slower current makes it a good spot to fish for rainbow trout.
  • North Fork Big Wood River: For fly fishing in solitude, head to this less crowded section of the river.

Remember to respect local fishing regulations and leave no trace to preserve Big Wood River for future generations!

Best Access Points

Fly fishing on the Big Wood – Ketchum offers an excellent fishing experience. Here are some of the best access points:

  • Murdoch’s Ranch and Home Supply bridge – An easily accessible point with ample parking space. Fish here for rainbow and brook trout.
  • St. Luke’s Wood River Medical Center bridge – Provides great opportunity for novices as it has calm water and a high fish population.
  • Lake Creek Bridge – Located in a lovely meadow, this is ideal for a full day of fishing.
  • Big Wood Campground – Has great bank access, walking trails and campgrounds, but only catch-and-release fishing allowed here.
  • Warm Springs – This area is famous for large trout. You’ll have to hike a bit, but the isolation and surrounding nature make it worth it.

Remember to respect the local fishing regulations for a sustainable and enjoyable fishing experience.

Local Fish

  • Rainbow Trout: This species is common in the Big Wood River and top on the list of fly fishers due to their colorful skin.
  • Brown Trout: Known for their incredible strength and size, Brown Trout are a must-catch in the Big Wood River.
  • Brook Trout: This species, although smaller than other trouts, is known for its beautiful colors and is a highly sought after catch.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Mountain Whitefish are abundant in the Big Wood River and are especially fun to catch on a light fly rod.
  • Golden Trout: They are rare and prized by fly fishers for their stunning golden color.
  • Bull Trout: A protected species, Bull Trout are a challenging catch because of their size and strength.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Named for the vibrant red streak under their jaws, these fish are a favorite among fly fishers in the Big Wood River.
  • Arctic Grayling: Arctic Graylings are popular for their sail-like dorsal fins and beautiful colors.

About The River

Deep in the heart of Idaho lies the enchanting Big Wood River, flowing from the magnificent Smoky Mountains through the towns of Ketchum and Bellevue, before finally merging into the Snake River. This scenic gem has a fascinating history.

Originally a hub for mining and ranching, the river transformed Ketchum from a peaceful mining town in the 1880s into a burgeoning center for sheep farming by 1920. With large influxes of Basque and Welsh sheepherders settling in the Wood River Valley, Ketchum became known as the ‘Sheep Queen of the World’.

  • 1930s: The river’s abundance of trout led to a newfound appreciation for fishing, attracting visitors nationwide.
  • 1960s: The town of Sun Valley along the Big Wood River started developing as a famous ski resort, changing the region’s economy once again.

Through it all, Big Wood – Ketchum has remarkably preserved its natural beauty and history, making it not only a delightful place to visit but also a site of significant cultural heritage.

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