Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Deadwood River - Lowman - 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 Noon to dark 18-24 Zebra midge, Cream midge pupa
Winter Stoneflies Mid-afternoon 12-16 Black stonefly nymph
February Midges Noon to dark 18-24 Griffith's Gnat
Winter Stoneflies Mid-afternoon 12-16 Black stonefly nymph
March Skwala Stoneflies Mid-afternoon 10-12 Skwala Adult, Skwala Nymph
Blue Winged Olive Anytime on cloudy days 16-20 Pheasant tail nymph
Midges Noon to dark 18-24 Griffith's Gnat
April Skwala Stoneflies Mid-afternoon 10-12 Skwala Adult, Skwala Nymph
Blue Winged Olive Anytime on cloudy days 16-20 Pheasant tail nymph
March Brown Afternoon on cloudy days 12-14 Hare's ear nymph
May Salmonflies Hot sunny day 4-6 Bullet Head Salmonfly
Golden Stoneflies Mid-afternoon 8-10 Golden stonefly nymph
Caddisflies Evening 14-16 Elk hair caddis
June Golden Stoneflies Mid-afternoon 8-10 Golden stonefly nymph
Green Drakes Late afternoon 8-10 Kelly Green Drake
Yellow Sallies Evening 14-16 Yellow sally stonefly
July Western Green Drakes Morning or evening 8-12 Trina's Carnage Drake
PMDs (Pale Morning Duns) Late morning/early afternoon 16-18 Comparadun PMD
Caddisflies Evening 14-16 X-caddis
August Hoppers All day 6-10 Foam hopper
Blue winged olive Anytime on cloudy days 16-20 BWO emerger
Caddisflies Evening 14-16 X-caddis
September Hoppers All day 6-10 Foam hopper
Blue winged olive Anytime on cloudy days 16-20 BWO emerger
October Blue winged olive Anytime on cloudy days 16-20 BWO emerger
Midges Noon to dark 18-24 Zebra midge
November Midges Noon to dark 18-24 Zebra midge
Winter Stoneflies Mid-afternoon 12-16 Black stonefly nymph
December Midges Noon to dark 18-24 Zebra midge
Winter Stoneflies Mid-afternoon 12-16 Black stonefly nymph

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 Deadwood River in Lowman, Idaho, is a favorite among dedicated anglers, boasting abundant trout and stunning wilderness scenery. Here are some of the best spots for fly fishing:

  • Confluence with the South Fork: This junction is always teeming with trout.
  • Deadwood Reservoir: While not technically the river, the reservoir is directly fed by it, and it’s rich in both rainbow and cutthroat trout.
  • Cozy Cove: This accessible spot near the campground is great for beginners.
  • Lowman Bridge: Known as a local fishing hot spot that’s quite successful in the early summer.

Remember to respect private property, and always check local fishing licenses and regulations. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned fly fisher, the Deadwood River offers great opportunities for a fruitful fly fishing trip.

Best Access Points

Deadwood River – Lowman is immensely popular among avid fly fishers for its abundance of fish species. Listed below are some of the best access points for fly fishing on this river:

  • Deadwood Campground: Nestled close to the river, this campground is not only an ideal place for pitching your tent but also bestows great spots for fishing.
  • Coal Mine Road: Access the river from the end of this road. It is frequently fished and teeming with trout.
  • Scott Mountain by the River Campground: Offering serene river views, this campground provides easy river access. It’s noted for potential catches of Bull and Cutthroat trouts.

Always remember to maintain respect for the river and surrounding nature by operating under the principle of ‘Catch and Release’ to preserve the fish population. Happy fly fishing!

Local Fish

  • Trout Fishing: This is one of the most common fish targeted for fly fishing on Deadwood River. Varieties include Rainbow Trout, Cutthroat Trout, and Bull Trout.
    • Rainbow Trout: Known for their acrobatic jumps and long runs.
    • Cutthroat Trout: Recognized by its distinctive, bright orange marks on the underside of its lower jaw.
    • Bull Trout: Requires very cold water to survive and reproduce. This fish is considered threatened and requires catch and release.
  • Salmon Fishing: Deadwood River is also renowned for its salmon fishing, including Chinook and Coho Salmon.
    • Chinook Salmon: Also known as King Salmon. They are the largest Salmon species in the Pacific and the most sought after by anglers.
    • Coho Salmon: Also known as Silver Salmon. Known for their aggressive nature and acrobatic fights when hooked.
  • Mountain Whitefish: This deep-bodied fish is native to the northern Rocky Mountains. They can be found in both slow and fast-moving waters.
  • Sturgeon: Known for their size and strength, sturgeons are bottom feeders that can put up a fight. Catch and release is required in most areas due to their endangered status.

About The River

The Deadwood River is a mesmerizing wild river tucked away in the heart of Idaho. Born from the alpine lakes of Central Idaho’s breathtaking Sawtooth Mountains, the river flows westward all the way to its confluence with the South Fork of the Payette River near Lowman.

  • Wildlife: The river area is teeming with wildlife, making it a nature lover’s paradise. Spot elks, deers, and even black bears on your visit.
  • Recreation: Deadwood River entices thrill-seekers with its whitewater rapids, while also offering serene landscapes for those who prefer fishing and camping.
  • Gold rush: Its history dates back to the 1860s gold rush era, earning its captivating name ‘Deadwood’ from the miners who worked on its banks.

Brace yourself for a mesmerizing journey through the invigorating waters of the Deadwood River and immerse in the rich history it has to offer.

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