Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Lochsa River - Lowell - 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 No significant hatches Daytime 8-12 Nymphs and Streamers
February No significant hatches Daytime 8-12 Nymphs and Streamers
March Midges Afternoon 20-22 Griffith’s Gnat
April Midges Afternoon 20-22 Griffith’s Gnat
Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Pheasant Tail Nymph
May Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Pheasant Tail Nymph
Salmonflies All day 2-6 Rogue Foam Stonefly Nymph
Golden Stoneflies All day 4-8 Gold Ribbed Hare’s Ear
June Green Drakes All day 8-12 Green Drake Cripple
July Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
Grasshoppers Afternoon 6-10 Dave’s Hopper
August Grasshoppers Afternoon 6-10 Dave’s Hopper
September Fall Caddis Evening 14-16 Elk Hair Caddis
October Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Pheasant Tail Nymph
Midges Late morning to afternoon 20-22 Griffith’s Gnat
November Blue Winged Olives Afternoon 16-20 Pheasant Tail Nymph
No significant hatches Daytime 8-12 Prince Nymph
December No significant hatches Daytime 8-12 Prince 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

Lochsa River – Lowell offers some of the finest fly fishing spots enriched with a wide array of fish species. Below are a few standout spots:
  • Wilderness Gateway Bridge: A great spot, endowed with cutthroat trout making it a favorite amongst anglers.
    • Fish Creek: Not to be missed for a diversified fly fishing experience, with an abundance of steelhead.
    • Wilderness Gateway Campground: An excellent spot to fly fish, it is home to a range of fish species.
    • Meadow Creek: Located nearby this spot boasts clear waters teeming with fish.
    • White Sand Creek: A popular spot for catching both steelhead and salmon.
    Pro Tip: The Lochsa River – Lowell Fishing map is a reliable guide for prime fishing spots.

Best Access Points

The Lochsa River – Lowell offers various entry points for fly fishing. Here are the recommended ones:

  • Canyon Work Center Area: This is a popular spot due to easy accessibility and known for the trout activity.
  • Wilderness Gateway Bridge: Provides ample space for fishing. Also, a campsite is available nearby for overnight stays.
  • Fish Creek: Accessible from Highway 12, offers excellent opportunities for catching Westslope Cutthroat trout.
  • Hungery Creek: Another great spot that can be accessed from Highway 12. You will find abundant pools and runs here.
  • Lowell Bridge: Located at the confluence of Selway and Lochsa River, it gives you a superb fishing experience.

Note: While fly fishing is allowed throughout the year, the best time to visit these spots is during spring and early summer when the fish are most active.

Local Fish

  • Cutthroat Trout: This type of fish is most preferred by anglers fishing in Lochsa River – Lowell.
  • Rainbow Trout: Its attractive colors make it a favorite for sport fishing.
  • Bull Trout: This fish is known for its elusive nature and is much sought after by fly fishers.
  • Brook Trout: Brook trout are also highly targeted due to their relatively abundant population.
  • Mountain Whitefish: Mountain Whitefish are common in the Lochsa River and are often targeted by fly fishers.
  • Northern Pike: Northern Pike is another popular species for fly fishing due to its aggressive nature and size.
  • Westslope Cutthroat Trout: The Lochsa River – Lowell is known for its population of Westslope Cutthroat Trout.
  • Brown Trout: Although not as common, Brown Trout are also targeted by some experienced fly fishermen.

About The River

The Lochsa River, a hidden gem nestled in Northern Idaho, has a fascinating history to its credit. Known as the ‘rough water’ in the Nez Perce language, the river beckons for its sheer wilderness beauty.

It originates from the Bitterroot Range and flows more than 70 miles to join the Selway River at Lowell, forming the Middle Fork of the Clearwater River. The river holds significance in the Lewis and Clark Expedition, playing a tough trail for the explorers.

  • They spent three arduous weeks in 1805 navigating the Lolo Trail along the Lochsa, facing untold hardship.
  • Today, the Lochsa River – Lowell is renowned as one of the best spots for whitewater rafting!

Offering a combination of exciting whitewater and camping spots, it’s a delight for adventure enthusiasts and history buffs alike. The river’s turbulent waters and its rich, enticing history make it a must-visit wilderness destination.

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