Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Henry's Fork - Ashton - 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 Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
February Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
March Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
April Midges Afternoon 14-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
Blue Wing Olives Afternoon 16-22 BWO Emerger, BWO Dries
May Blue Wing Olives Mid-day 14-22 BWO Emerger, BWO Dries
Caddis Evening 14-20 Elk Hair Caddis, Goddard Caddis
Yellow Stones Evening 8-12 Yellow Stimulator, Yellow Sallies
June Yellow Stones Evening 6-12 Yellow Stimulator, Yellow Sallies
Main Salmonfly hatch Evening 4-8 Rogue Foam Stone, Sofa Pillow fly
PMD Mid-day 14-20 PMD Emerger, PMD Dries
July PMD Mid-day 14-20 PMD Emerger, PMD Dries
Green Drakes Afternoon 8-12 Green Drake Cripple, Green Drake Dun
August Terrestrials All day 10-16 Hoppers, Ants, Beetles
Trico Early morning 20-24 Trico spinner, Trico Dun
September Terrestrials All day 10-16 Hoppers, Ants, Beetles
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-22 BWO Emerger, BWO Dries
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 18-22 BWO Emerger, BWO Dries
November Midges Afternoon 18-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
December Midges 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 Henry’s Fork in Ashton offers some of the finest fly fishing spots in the world. These include:
  • Box Canyon: Starting below the Island Park Reservoir, this section is famous for its large Rainbow Trout.
  • Harriman State Park: Also known as “the Ranch,” it is known for its prolific hatches and challenging fishing that rewards technical casting and presentation
  • Lower River: From Ashton Dam downstream to Saint Anthony, it’s rich with aquatic insects and known for its incredible dry fly opportunities.
  • Chester Dam to Ashton: Known as the “Fall River,” it provides exceptional fishing due in part to warmer water and different hatches.
  • Ashton Reservoir: An often-overlooked spot that provides fantastic fishing.
Remember– the best choice often depends on the exact timing of your trip due to the various insect hatches.

Best Access Points

The Henry’s Fork in Ashton offers several high-quality access points for fly fishing. These points provide optimal opportunities for catching a variety of fish species in diverse fishing environments. Here are some of the best access points:

  • Box Canyon: Great location for catching Rainbow Trout, easily accessible via Forest Road.
  • Lower Mesa Falls: This location offers a scenic view and excellent choices for fishing for Brown and Rainbow Trout.
  • Warm River: Accessible from the Warm River campground, this place is teeming with various fish species.
  • Vernon Bridge: Provides excellent opportunities to catch Rainbow and Brown Trout.
  • Chester Dam: Accessible year-round, this spot is perfect for catching Trout even in winter.
  • Ora Bridge: This section of river holds high numbers of Rainbow and Brook Trout.

Remember, different regulations may apply to different sections of the river, so ensure you’re familiar with them before casting your line.

Local Fish

  • Trouts:
    1. Rainbow Trout: Known for their aggressive strikes and acrobatic fights. They thrive in the Henry’s Fork water conditions.
    2. Brown Trout: They provide a challenging catch for fly anglers due to their elusive and unpredictable nature.
    3. Brook Trout: Smaller compared to other trout species, they are a favorite among anglers for their beautiful colors and distinctive markings.
  • Salmons:
    1. Cutthrout Salmon: This species is named for the bright red or orange slash on the underside of its lower jaw. Its large size attracts many fly anglers.
    2. Chinook Salmon: Known for their size and strength, they are a popular target for fly fishing in Henry’s Fork – Ashton.
  • Other Species:
    1. Whitefish: These fish are common in the Henry’s Fork waters and offer a fun perceptive to the fly angler.
    2. Yellowstone Cutthroat Trout: They are a native trout species in the waters of Henry’s Fork. This makes them a favorite target among conservation minded anglers.

About The River

The Henry’s Fork is a tributary of the Snake River, located in the eastern part of Idaho. It gets its name from Major Andrew Henry, a fur trader from the early 19th century. Major Henry originally named it North Fork, but over time, it came to be called Henry’s Fork.

Whitewater enthusiasts and nature lovers alike appreciate its crystal-clear waters and the diverse ecosystem consisting of a wide variety of fish species. Outdoor activities are plentiful with fly fishing being a particular favorite.

The town of Ashton, located nearby, serves as a convenient access point and offers a variety of services to visitors. Many people also start the Mesa Falls Scenic Byway from Ashton, which offers breathtaking views of upper and lower Mesa Falls.

With rich history and natural beauty, the Henry’s Fork is a must-visit for any outdoor enthusiast.

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