Blue Stream Fly Fishing
Fly Fishing Report for:

Salmon River - White Bird - 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 Griffith’s Gnats, Zebra Midges
February Midges, Small dark stoneflies Mid-Late Afternoon #16-20 Griffith's Gnat, Black Stonefly Nymph
March Stoneflies Early Morning #10-14 Henryville Special, Classic Leadwing Coachman
April Skwala Stoneflies Morning-Afternoon #8-12 Skwala dry fly
Caddis Late Afternoon-Evening #14-18 Elk Hair Caddis, Peacock Caddis
May Mayflies, Caddis Afternoon-Evening #12-20 Parachute Adams, Goddard Caddis
Salmonflies Afternoon #4-6 Orange Stimulator, Foam Salmonfly
June Golden Stoneflies, Green Drakes Morning-Afternoon #10-14 Golden Stone Dry Fly, Green Drake Cripple
July Golden Stones, Caddis Morning-Evening #10-16 Yellow Stimulator, Goddard Caddis
August Hoppers, Caddis Morning-Evening #6-12 Dave's Hopper, Elk Hair Caddis
September Blue Wing Olives Afternoon #18-22 Blue Wing Olive, Tungsten Flashback Nymph
October October Caddis Afternoon-Evening #8-10 October Caddis Pupa, Orange Stimulator
November Midges Late Morning-Afternoon #18-22 Zebra Midge, Griffith's Gnat
December Midges Afternoon #18-22 Mercer's midge, Black Beauty

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 Salmon River, White Bird, provides the best adventure for anyone seeking a ton of fly fishing opportunities. Some splendid spots for fly fishing include:
  • Riggins City Park: Offers easy access to the riverside and has ample room for casting.
  • Vinegar Creek: Providing a tranquil ambiance for fishing, 26 miles from Riggins.
  • Hell’s Canyon: More challenging due to its spectatularly rugged terrains; however, it provides an abundance to catch steelhead.
  • Try the Twin Bridges area offering plenty of space and an array of fish to catch.
  • A hosted Pee Wee Creek trip where you can expect to catch Westslope Cutthroat Trout, Bull Trout, and the occasional Steelhead.
Ensure to follow the regulations, respect the environment and indulge in an unforgettable fly fishing experience on the beautiful Salmon River.

Best Access Points

The Salman River – White Bird area in Idaho is renowned for its excellent fly fishing opportunities. Here are some of the best access points:

  • River of No Return: Immensely scenic, this spot provides promising trout fishing opportunities.
  • Vinegar Creek: This remote location is a favorite among local anglers. Be prepared for a long drive, but the exceptional fishing is worth it.
  • Riggins: Offering both bank and boat access, Riggins presents rich prospects for fishing steelhead and salmon.
  • White Bird: Home to the White Bird Battle Field, this site offers fishing access further south of the river.

Ensure to follow local regulations and respect the river’s ecosystem. Happy fishing!

Local Fish

  • Steelhead Trout: This fish is one of the most sought-after game fish in the Salmon River due to their size and the challenge they provide for fly fishing.
  • Chinook Salmon: Known as King Salmon, these fish provide a challenging target for anglers due to their size and strength.
  • Coho Salmon: Coho Salmon is another popular game fish in the Salmon River, prized by anglers for their aggressive behavior.
  • Sockeye Salmon: Known for their vibrant red color during spawning season, Sockeye Salmon are a favorite among fly fishermen in the Salmon River.
  • Rainbow Trout: A favorite among many anglers, Rainbow Trout are abundant in the Salmon River and make for a great game fish for fly fishing.
  • Mountain Whitefish: These fish are plentiful in the Salmon River and are a popular target for fly fishermen due to their high activity levels.
  • Cutthroat Trout: Native to the area, these trout are a favorite among fly fishermen due to their striking color and the challenge they provide.
  • Bull Trout: Bull Trout are sought after for their size, which can reach up to 30 inches in the Salmon River, making them a thrilling catch for any fly fisherman.

About The River

Salmon River – a famous river that gracefully winds through the beautiful landscapes of Idaho – has a wonderful history intertwined with the town of White Bird. Prized for its sparkling turquoise waters brimming with salmon and trout, it’s a paradise for fishing enthusiasts.

The river’s historical significance is deeply linked with the Nimiipuu or Nez Perce Indians who relied on the river’s abundant fish as a crucial part of their diet. The idyllic town of White Bird, nestled by the river, is named after their Chief, White Bird, exhibiting the rich cultural past of the area.

  • Historically, the river has been a pivotal site for gold mining in the late 19th-century.
  • White Bird is famous for the Battle of White Bird Canyon, the first fight of the Nez Perce War.

With its serene, unspoiled natural beauty and intriguing history, the Salmon River-White Bird continues to enchant visitors, offering a glimpse into a bygone era while delighting with its scenic charm.

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