The Boise River Fishery

2010 Boise River Population Results

2012-01-16T17:58:00.000-07:00

A good number of people reminded me this weekend at the Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo that I have failed to post lately. February always brings renewed dry fly activity. I’ll being cleaning my over-and-under 20 gauge and locking it up in a couple more weeks. Thanks for staying with me.

Great news on the Boise River, and not unexpected to those of you who fish it, who know it, and who have realized its potential. The rainbow population has reached high levels not recorded in prior Lower Boise River population studies. Brown trout, on the other hand, have really suffered.

As part an attempt to once again bolster the browns, the IDFG released over 15,000 adipose-clipped fingerling browns in both 2009 and 2010. (They actually did it again in 2011, but the population survey was conducted in October 2010.) Only five of these fish were captured in the study. And very few existing wild browns were captured either. The data indicates that one of these browns in the middle section of river was nearly 30”, however.

IDFG Southwest Region 2010 Annual Fisheries Report

Also perhaps of interest in the annual report: there are approximately 5 million pounds of carp in Lake Lowell. I think 5 million pounds of mallards used to winter there when we had a better migration flyway.

Abundant high water and main-stem spawning has really helped Boise River rainbows. What a great opportunity to implement a catch-and-release, no bait regulation on several miles of river (from Barber Park to Broadway, ideally). This portion of the river has the biological capability to become a quality destination.

Time to protect what mother nature is trying so hard to give us.

IDFG Angler Opinion Survey

2012-01-02T08:57:00.006-07:00

Be sure to complete the Idaho Department of Fish and Game's Angler Opinion Survey. Your opinion matters to the future of fisheries management in Idaho.

You'll want to answer Question #13, which reads, "Scientific study has demonstrated that most hooking related fishing mortality is related to where the fish is hooked (jaw, gills, stomach) and is not related to the use of barbed or barbless hooks. Because barbless hooks are an unnecessary restriction to achieve management and conservation goals, the Department is considering removing barbless hook restrictions in trout fisheries. Anglers could continue to voluntarily use barbless hooks if they desire. Would you support or oppose the elimination of mandatory barbless hook restrictions in Idaho trout fisheries?"

The preface of this question assumes that all hooks are created equally. By hooking fish after they swallow bait, gear anglers using barbless treble hooks have a much higher mortality incidence than single-hook artficial flies and lures. The survey question is poorly worded as it "baits" the person taking the survey. Single barbless hooks slide out of a fish's jaw much easier than barbed ones, there's no arguing that. Large, barbed hooks (single or treble) do damage to trout, particularly juvenilles.

The IDFG does a nice job of managing quality trout fisheries in the state. But they are very misguided if they think a sweeping regulation change to allow barbed hooks in all trout water is justifiable.

Trico's in October?

2011-10-17T22:15:00.001-06:00

Had some amazing trico fishing last Saturday...and not on Eastern Oregon's brown trout tailwater. 70 degrees again this coming week. That's a little warmer than normal, but by now I'm usually searching for baetis. #22 trico spinners when the air temperture reaches the mid-60's will do.

Just about every hatch this year was delayed. Then when they got going, they've seemingly hung on longer. Facinating how nature is cyclical yet so unique each season.

The Missouri

2011-08-23T12:42:00.000-06:00

Spent a few days gleaning all that the Missouri River and Craig, Montana have to offer. We didn't travel there to simply catch fish, else we would have nymphed. We did not throw streamers…not that I’m opposed to that. No, we hunted large, garbage feeding rainbows and browns in soft water sipping an assortment of spinners and other decomposing mayflies and caddis.

Having Henry's Fork Foundation founder Mick Mickelson row my boat for two days didn’t hurt either.

If you want to test your dry fly ability and fish approaching skills, fish the Missouri in August. If you get there and need a bit of help, stop by and see the crew at Headhunters Flyshop.

Also, be sure to eat and drink at Izaak's. Hard-working staff, great food and riverside atmosphere.

She Goes Down

2011-07-27T22:50:00.002-06:00

Your drift boat if you hit a boulder with the broad side in swift current, that is.

There have been a couple wreckages on the South Fork of the Boise this month. If you've never rowed a river before and somebody tells you that the South Fork "is no problem", they're not being truthful. There are easier rivers to float in order to get the feel for handling a drift boat or pontoon. The river has a decent gradient, but there are no serious hazards in the upper stretch unless you either panic or are asleep. Below Cow Creek, there are some rock gardens above and below Pine Hole. And you need to line up on Pine Hole correctly to push through (there's a huge rock on the right - go left).

The best thing you can do is to practice on a mellow river or a lake, and take your first trip down the South Fork with somebody who has some experience.

Caddis, sallies, PMD's and baetis. If you're not fishing the Boise River in town after work right now, you're missing out. The high spring runoff has the wild rainbows healthy and strong, and the hatches are going off all at once.

Unique Spot Markings on a Wild Boise River Rainbow in Town

No In-Town Fishing this Month

2011-06-27T15:42:00.000-06:00

Have you ever failed at something that you have plenty of experience doing? Managing reservoir levels ultimately must come down to a bit of a guessing game.

There are plenty of options for fishing right now. The Boise River in town is not one of them.

Got off to a good start this summer. I love the solstice.

26" Rainbow (he did not eat a dry)

Are We There Yet?

2011-06-09T17:36:00.000-06:00

Certain days on the calendar provoke fishing trips for many. For some, that day is the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. Others fish on New Year’s Day in a manner of tradition. The summer solstice beckons me to the water - it falls on June 21 this year. It is the longest day of the year where we live, with 16 hours of generous daylight. That’s three times as many fishing hours in one day compared to winter!

The solstice also means the beginning of summer….

Reggae music.

Lime juice on grilled chicken and in stirred drinks.

Charcoal-cooked red meat.

Wet wading.

Homework-free kids and a sleepy dog.

And carp on the fly, at least until these swollen rivers subside to dry fly levels.

Snake River Buglemouth

Fred Putting One in the Boat

Flood Threat Subsides

2011-05-31T17:48:00.002-06:00

Since May 16, the inflow to the Boise River reservoir system has dropped significantly. The Middle Fork, for example, is approaching more normal flows. Perhaps the river in town will start dropping within a couple of weeks. That likely depends on how much precipitation we receive in early June.

Today, Arrowrock is at 65% of capacity, Lucky Peak is 74%, and Anderson Ranch is 83%.

By no means was the May 16 analysis a prediction of flooding. It was simply a look at what it would take to fill the reservoirs in a relatively short period of time, and the potential downstream consequences.

River fishing is still a ways out.

M. Fork Boise Since May 16

Memorial Day Weekend

2011-05-29T23:29:00.002-06:00

Fort Boise Military Cemetary

If you own an American flag, remember to display it on Monday. Pay tribute to this great nation, and those who have served to protect it.

Could the Boise River Flood?

2011-05-16T21:20:00.003-06:00

The last year the Boise River overflowed its banks and engulfed residences and streets was 1943. The river spilled over the top of Arrowrock dam and more than 14,000 cfs raged through town. That event lead to the construction of Lucky Peak dam around 1955. According to the US Army Corps of Engineers, the flood began on April 1 and was “the result of rapid snowmelt augmented by light rainfall”.

Boise River above East ParkCenter Bridge - May 16, 2011

Snowpack levels are only one variable in water management. Natural runoff is ultimately dictated by mother nature, and is difficult to predict. The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) Idaho Water Supply Outlook Report for May 1, 2011 shows that the Boise River basin snowpack is only slightly above normal. This is surprising since many areas of the state are 150-200% of normal, such as the Upper Snake and Payette River basins. So while Boise residents have that in their favor, it is still snowing at moderate elevations and raining in the valleys.

The Bureau of Reclamation and US Corps of Engineers have been releasing additional water since late March to provide reservoir capacity. Today, Arrowrock is 56% full, Anderson Ranch is 81%, and Lucky Peak is 69%. In all, this means there is 280,000 acre ft of remaining storage. With the recent warm weather and rain, the natural inflow has suddenly shot up to 18,800 cfs. The comfortable Boise River flow to prevent flooding is 7,000 cfs, where it is today. The New York canal is running at 2,250 cfs. So the net inflow to the reservoirs is 9550 cfs. If those conditions persist at roughly the same levels, the reservoirs will reach capacity in 15 days, or on May 31.

[(280,000 acre ft)(43,560 cubic ft/acre ft)]/[(9550 cfs)(86,400 seconds/day)] = 15 days

According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), water may begin flowing down ParkCenter Blvd at 9,500 cfs, but should remain below most residential areas. At 10,500 cfs, flooding of residences near the river is likely. At 12,000 cfs, ParkCenter pond is now connected to the river. And at 16,000 cfs, we have major flooding.

Since May 3, the Middle Fork of the Boise River has gone from 2,000 cfs to nearly 10,000 cfs. If and when the reservoirs upstream reach capacity, what goes in must come out.

Duh, I Am Spinning

2011-04-05T17:33:00.003-06:00

What was the name of the town in High Plains Drifter starring Clint Eastwood? Answer: Lago.

Stillwater may be the best fishing option for the next couple months.

The Stranger Overlooking Lago

The Good
Major League Baseball season.
This year's snowpack.
Dry flies.... Still-borns, cripples, emergers, knock-downs, duns, spinners, anything on or near the surface.

The Bad
Springtime winds, especially when fishing stillwater.
Butler's field goal percentage in the NCAA championship game.
Owyhee River water management.

The Ugly
Charlie Sheen and Barry Bonds - just go away like OJ eventually did.
Your office guy who never walks anywhere without his ipod plugged into his ears.
Spring steelhead fishing for last year's summer runs. Just say no.

Milt them for all they're worth.

Heart of the Forest

2011-03-24T09:58:00.000-06:00

This video was put together by Steve Smede, a college friend from the University of Idaho. The stunning scenery reminds me that fly fishing sometimes serves as a diversion…a secondary means of taking us to unforgettable locations. It is always about far more than just the fish.

Heart of the Forest from Smede Lightworks on Vimeo.

Knot Sense

2011-03-21T11:21:00.000-06:00

Here's a list of the knots I use. It's a good time of year to check your line, leader, and backing connections.

Blood Knot - I use this exclusively for mono to mono connections, 7x to 25lb Maxima. Some like a surgeon's knot, but the blood knot is reliable and streamlined.

Nail Knot - Butt section to fly line connection. I still use the tool, and treat the tag end with a dab of Hard As Hull to seal the line core. Prevents it from getting waterlogged and sinking.

Clinch Knot - Dry fly connection. Not the improved clinch, don't like the bulk or the way it tightens down. A standard clinch will do.

Albright Knot - Fly line to backing, and far better than a nail knot for this connection.

Rapala Knot - Streamer, steelhead fly, and sometimes wet fly/nymph connections. Keeps the fly swimming, especially when swinging a spey pattern.

Perfection Loop - Nice quick knot for monofilament loop connections. The rapala knot can double for this purpose too though.

When I create sink tip sections, I'll tie two back-to-back nail knots with 1x Maxima over the top of a folded-back section of the tip.

Animated (Fishing) Knots is an excellent online resource.

Finally...

2011-03-06T19:49:00.001-07:00

Fishing is turning on as water temps are up a degree or two. The Boise River green color is slowly clearing up. Elsewhere, midge action is improving.

Micah Lauer tagged a nice wild bow in town last week.

I enjoyed a 22-22 club day with my dad. Think Gnatalie dries. Some of the bigger fish are skinny, but they'll put on weight in a few more weeks.

Senate Bill 1095 - Safe Boating

2011-03-04T11:52:00.002-07:00

I'm all for safe boating and requiring that kids and poor swimmers wear life jackets in my drift boat. During winter or in high, cold water, I will wear one myself. It is a judgement call.

If it passes, Senate Bill 1095 will require that life jackets no longer be stowed in lock boxes or under enclosed bench seats. They'll need to be on the floor getting wet, tripping you up, and catching your fly line.

Photo courtesy of Big Sky Fishing

Why do kayakers refer to themselves as "boaters", who know how to "boat"? Can you put a motor on a kayak? Do you need a trailer to haul one?

Kayaks are not boats, they're kayaks. And kayakers are paddlers.

Wonder Wax

2011-02-20T22:39:00.001-07:00

I'm approaching the end of my last tube of Overton's Wonder Wax. This the dubbing wax to which all others are compared. That is of course if you are old enough to have used it. I'm not exactly sure when it went out of production, but I believe it was 10-20 years ago.

Some tiers are going through great lengths to achieve Overton's sticky but smooth texture. Toilet ring wax is the base ingredient. I will probably get by with Wapsi wax for awhile.

Keep the cap tight on your Overton's if you value it like I do mine.

The Original and Best

Size/Stage/Presentation/Color

2011-02-02T15:12:00.002-07:00

Are you new to building a collection of fly boxes? New to tying? Or are you an old-timer fixed in your ways who fishes only a set of imitations? Gaining confidence in any pattern is the key to keeping it in your box. I like adding a couple patterns or more every year. There is satisfaction in finding a new fly to fool fish…and then sharing it with your fishing partners.

No matter what your approach is, there is never a single pattern that is the only one for the situation. What matters for selective trout is size, stage, presentation, and color. All four are not likely critical at the same time, but situations exist where they all do matter. And those are the fish I want to stick.

Size - #18 vs. #16 can make all the difference, especially with mayflies. A #8 vs. #10 hopper while prospecting for cutts in the summer? Not going to matter. I am now tying small stuff on TMC 102Y’s to fill in the size gaps.

Stage – If you can’t tell whether trout are inhaling emergers or sipping duns, and you fish the wrong one, you may as well be chucking a Daredevil spoon at them. Do you see snouts? Or only caudal fins? Put your head near the water surface – what species and stages of bugs do you see?

Presentation – Probably the most unforgiving element if you do it wrong. Don’t ask a trout to fight through your leader to get to the fly. Don’t let the current drag your fly. Don’t get too close to the fish. Don’t line the fish. If you drop a trailer fly, don’t fish a beacon Chernobyl ant as your point fly during a PMD spinner fall.

Color – Subtle differences are usually okay. A pardo/CDC caddis pattern works as a yellow sally imitation. But then again caddis can be black, olive, brown, orange, cream…and everything in between those color spectrums. For streamers, color can be huge depending on the baitfish in the system. Color is such a wildcard. This is a fun variable to play with when tying, so experiment.

Use a tippet size one stronger than you think you need. Get 'em in and let 'em go.

Will you be a better fisherman in 2011? Start thinking about how you’re going to get there.

Wintergreen

2011-02-01T22:47:00.000-07:00

Ever since the Boise River saw 1200cfs in the middle of January, it has been running off color. Not the muddy spring runoff associated with high water and snow melt, but an Owyhee River green. The difference is the browns in the Boise don't know how to react to this.

I drove up to Diversion dam at lunch today. The water above the dam is clear, and the flow coming out of the southwest side below is green. There is a lot of old moss covering the dam, but this just isn't normal for winter.

Do you know the answer to when this crud will clear up?

2010 Preliminary Boise River Population Survey Results

2011-01-27T11:20:00.001-07:00

In October 2010, the IDFG conducted its electroshock fish population survey on the Boise River in town. The final report from the fishery biologists is still in progress, but Art Butts in Nampa was kind enough to share some preliminary highlights.

The biologists are primarily interested in wild rainbow and brown trout, mountain whitefish, and hatchery rainbows. While pikeminnows and suckers were present, data representing those two species was not recorded.

2010 was not a good recruitment year for wild trout or whitefish. In other rivers such as the South Fork of the Boise, fingerlings are found in many types of holding water. This has never been the case in the Boise River, however. Art is tentatively planning to check each year for young fish going forward to better understand recruitment and holding patterns of yearling fish.
Brown trout populations are predominantly down from 2007 for all age classes.
Until 2009, brown trout had not been stocked in the river since 1998. In July 2009, 15,010 fingerling browns were stocked, and in July 2010, another 18,713. To distinguish these trout from wild browns, many were lacking adipose fins when released. The overall survival rate of these browns appears to be quite low.
On the bright side, catchable wild rainbows are doing well, with higher numbers in the middle section of the river. The number of rainbows in the 6-12" range is up from 2007.
Mountain whitefish numbers are relatively unchanged from 2004, and they are the dominant species in the river in terms of quantity.

Releasing a Wild Boise River Rainbow

Gnatalie

2011-01-22T21:41:00.004-07:00

The Idaho Angler on Vista Ave. now carries Gnatalie dry flies. This go-to winter fly was one of the patterns I tied at the Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo last weekend. I used TMC/Tiemco 100's in #20 and #22 for the shop's stock. The fly also has a nice profile on a TMC/Tiemco 206BL.

Temps will be in the low 40's this week. Give them a try.

Final Day of Christmas Break

2011-01-04T22:57:00.000-07:00

Please Don't Fall!

Even though temperatures haven't been above freezing lately, when the sun was shining Sunday afternoon, I felt the need to lob some nymphs in the Boise. To my astonishment, my 8-year-old son agreed to join me.

I laid out the rules for this trip...it required long underwear, fleece pants, wool socks, a sweatshirt and a coat. This is normally a kid who wears ankle socks and t-shirts to school. But this was winter fishing and he willingly agreed.

We expected a few whitefish, but found a good rainbow. I played the fish as rapidly as possible with 3x tippet. While in the net, I brought him to the surface for a quick photo. It is imperative that their gills are not subjected to the air when it is this cold outside.

The flow was increased on Monday from 250cfs to 800cfs. The river won't fish well until after January 17 when it is scheduled to drop.

Consider hitting the Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo on January 14-15 as a means of enjoying fly fishing and fly tying with others from around the northwest.

The Wild Within

2010-12-31T17:58:00.000-07:00

When it comes to television, I watch ESPN/sports, Fox News, and a few outdoors and environmental programs. Like many, January is the month when my TV time peaks.

The Travel Channel will introduce their version of Les Stroud and Bear Grylls on January 9. The Wild Within with Steven Rinella might be worth a watch while tying flies during this cold front.

After all, it looks like the guy may even be fishing a Lamson Velocity.

In The Air Tonight

2010-12-29T14:50:00.001-07:00

I am a product of the 80’s and I don’t know what it was about Miami Vice that made me think it was worth watching. The conclusions were short and weak, the writing was terrible and lacked wit, the punch lines were repeated every episode, and Boise is a long way from Miami.

But if you have the smuggler’s blues and didn’t get quite what you wanted for Christmas, stop by the Idaho Angler on Vista Ave. and see Switek. Just how he transitioned from a surveillance van to a spey caster I’ll never know. Check out his great selection of fly tying materials, Lamson reels, Sage and Echo rods, and Simms waders. There are always a few sale racks as well.

The Reel Deal

2010-12-17T23:14:00.003-07:00

I have my grandfather's reels, knives, and guns. His fly reel was a Pflueger Medalist.

When the faux ivory handle broke off, he replaced it by welding a copper tube to the spool.

About half of the paint is left.

The plastic center has been burned. I don't recall how that happened. It could have been the boat motor or a few Pall Malls or the heat from the welding. I do recall us stringing up brookies and cutts for a corn meal and butter fish fry.

Fish with your mentors in 2011...often. And tell them this Christmas that you're going to do it.

On January 1st, somehow our thoughts are never, "wow, I wish I hadn't fished so many days last year".

Use and a Little Abused

Think Outside the Fly Box

2010-12-08T15:57:00.001-07:00

Caddis and PMD's - The Staple

With more darkness than light outside in the winter, it's my favorite time to stay up late or get up early to tie. A guy can't have enough filler flies - the ones you keep in the closet to replenish the box in the summer.

The freezer's full of venison and bird season is still going strong. Not getting a lot of fishing in now. My pointer whined with anxiety the entire drive on our way pheasant hunting yesterday. Her desire seems to grow after every trip.

With temps in the 40's, there should be some midge activity this week. I could handle a mild winter in the valley.

Sable Locked Up

Bright Fish in a Dark Place

2010-12-02T13:33:00.008-07:00

This fall, my engineering recruiting trip to the University of Portland was supplemented with fishing conversation with UP's Employer Relations Director, Max Kalchthaler. Coastal steelheading with a fly rod is similar to fishing for our summer runs, it involves persistence, river knowledge, and a some good fortune. Just when you’re cold and you think you’ve had enough practice casting, good things happen.

Max cancelled a trip to the Deschutes due to poor weather and instead focused on the Sandy. He was rewarded with this gorgeous wild winter.

Few northwest rivers have been the source of more management controversy than this one. Today, the city of Portland has a wild steelhead fishery that is a unique escape in an otherwise densely populated area.

Sandy River Chrome

Top 10 Reasons to Not Fish the Boise River for Steelhead

2010-11-02T17:48:00.002-06:00

10) The banks are suddenly lined with every gill ripper and gut slinger in Boise.

9) Hoards of “steelhead angers” await the arrival of the fish truck at each stocking location.

8) Most fish are caught within a few hours of getting stocked in the river.

7) It’s nearly impossible to catch one by swinging a fly.

6) The Snake, Salmon, and Clearwater Rivers and their tributaries all hold steelhead right now.

5) No B-Runs.

4) No wild fish.

3) If you fish for them, please help clean up the influx of trash left by others.

2) You googled “Boise River steelhead” and found this Top 10 List.

1) If the IDFG stopped stocking steelhead, it would be a step toward developing the river as a trophy trout fishery.

Not a Boise River Steelhead

Today's Irrelevant Post

2010-10-19T10:34:00.004-06:00

If I could choose a time of year to take an 8-week vacation it would be now until mid December. Steelhead and trout fishing, chuckar, pheasant and whitetail deer hunting. That's five weekends right there alone and barely enough time to scratch the surface of success.

A trip to Montana would be included in my escapade. I may try to get one in yet anyway. Missouri River fishermen choose Clackacraft over Hyde three-to-one.

The Idaho Statesman 2010 photo contest results will be published this Thursday.

B-Run Swung

2010-10-10T23:47:00.001-06:00

I generally won’t blog fish war stories, but what happened Friday morning goes down as one of my most memorable catches ever.

Aside from some family time in Genesee on Saturday, I had a long weekend to fish for steelhead. Rather than head for the Grande Ronde River in Washington or stop along the Salmon River, I would pass on what usually amounts to hatchery A-runs. This year’s early October trip would be different. I would commit to the fickle Clearwater River and hope for one of its fresh B-Runs.

I swung flies on Thursday without a take. The Fish & Game officer who checked me had not yet talked to any successful fly fishermen that day. I had not seen anybody else hook a fish either. It had been raining the night before and the sun nary showed at all. After a warm September, it felt right for steelhead fishing. It was a good day regardless.

The next morning while heading east on Highway 12, I noticed a vacant run I had always wanted to swing. It’s a popular spot and had been fished two or three times the day before. The rest of my coffee would have to wait – the run was open and I was going to step into it.

My rod is strung from the day before. My knots are still strong and the 10lb Maxima tippet is not frayed in the slightest. My first cast is an efficient, single spey – not too far, just enough to get the 50' head out. The water is a busy riffle, probably 4' deep. The fly turns over and swims for 2 seconds when the loop in my hand is gone, the 13’ Echo is suddenly heavy, and in no time I am looking at my backing screaming through the guides. This, I know then, is no A-Run.

I’m not entirely sure whether the fish is wild or unclipped. What I do know is that it found my backing three more times after I had worked the line back onto the reel. I also know the fish broke the surface on the other side of the wide river while I chased it downstream.

I beached the 35" buck in 10-12 minutes, amazed at how this could happen on my very first cast of the morning. I fished until mid-afternoon without another grab, but I was beaming inside the whole time. I could fish the rest of the season without another fish like this and remain as happy as the moment I released it.

October Wet Wading

2010-10-03T16:53:00.002-06:00

This young angler fell down, got his seat wet, then stood up without hesitation made another cast. Good stuff right there.

It will be tough to wet wade much longer. Fall's coming, you can feel it today with the clouds and breeze. Time for trout on baetis and steelhead on the swing.

Heat Wave

2010-09-26T23:12:00.001-06:00

Lots of folks out enjoying the Boise River and the greenbelt this weekend, even a few still floating in inner tubes. I didn't measure it, but the water temp doesn't feel any cooler than it did a month ago. And we're supposed to hit record-high low 90's this week. No complaints...summer started late so we'll take it.

Good numbers of grabby little wild rainbows today. Made for a nice couple hours in the afternoon. Plenty of other anglers had the same idea.

The tentatively scheduled three-year IDFG population survey is due this October. Life's more interesting with predictions, so I'll say that trout numbers will be down slightly, especially those over 14" (355mm).

Those elusive big browns will be scarce too. This one from three years ago was circling the drain as it was before being engulfed by several thousand volts.

August Has Been Good

2010-08-18T22:49:00.002-06:00

There are lengthy PMD hatches coming off both in town and on other local waters. Trout will take the dun, but they’re keying on sub-surface emergers and will usually only grab the adult after eating nymphs on the way up to the surface. Captive duns and film patterns will work – trail a spinner off your dry in the evening.

Other observations….

If you're new to the sport and carrying flies, floatant, and cigarettes to the river in a Walmart or Cabela’s sack, make sure you pack out your trash. Leaving that crap on the bank is wrong – even if your mama didn’t teach you that.

Nobody “hammers” wild fish in town. If you catch one, let it go unless you plan to eat it. In fact, consider letting it go anyway.

It’s not all about finding out what fly the other guy on the river is using. Size, stage, and presentation will catch fish. Learn to reach cast and get a drag-free drift.

Q & A:

How many Cabela’s fly shop workers does it take to tie a knot? Five – one to tie the knot and four to keep their backs turned to the customer. These guys aren’t as good or as knowledgeable as they want you to believe. Frequent local fly shops for real service.

I've Got Your Pack

2010-08-09T23:16:00.003-06:00

High mountain lakes are full of eager, grabby little trout. Some lakes hold surprisingly large trout too. But when you take your 8-year-old son to one of these places, there isn't always a lot of time for fishing.

Once we had caught a couple cutts on an ant pattern, there were too many other things to do....

Like build a rock fort and decorate it with elk bones and pine bows.

Make an afternoon fire to dry our clothes and keep the mosquitos away.

Play "Go Fish" in the tent (I never even won one game).

And navigate a make-shift raft with a push pole.

I was glad to carry his pack for him on the uphill climbs. This trip had to stay fun. His big, adventurous attitude was a great take-away for me this weekend, and a bit of a surprise. Kids come through when you provide a little nudge.

Trout Bender 2010

2010-07-21T13:45:00.002-06:00

Having just returned from fishing different corners of the state, I was eager to find out what an evening on the Boise River would offer. It did not produce last night…in fact, it was downright disappointing. There are plenty of caddis and a few PMD’s. I'll have to try again soon.

Our state fish sure is gorgeous. Some of my favorite summer trips involve catching 10-14” westslope cutthroat on a 2 wt., especially when they are feeding on top in a tributary and you get to choose your target.

After waiting for summer flows to drop, hatches have been unpredictable. The South Fork of the Snake is seeing baetis, in July, they’re gray in color…and fish are keying on them. I got caught without my baetis box in the boat because I simply didn’t anticipate that.

Big water doubles make for a great day as well. I think these rainbows might actually enjoy being in the Ghost Net.

Trout Mooring

2010-07-01T22:22:00.008-06:00

If you do enough of something, you're bound to see a little bit of everything. Like fishing.... After my dad hooked a rainbow last week on the South Fork of the Boise, it maintained its position upstream of the boat. I slid the Clack in tight to the bank and lowered the anchor. As I did, the fish darted across the stern, just in time for the pyramid anchor to pin the fly line to the bottom of the river. If you intentionally tried to do this 100 times, I bet you'd be hard-pressed to repeat it. As I looked down at the anchor and fly line, we of course assumed the fish was lost - broken off. I lifted the anchor and to our amazement, the fish was still on. We landed it; the hook slightly bent but the 5x Maxima completely in tact.

Almost as strange was the fact that there were only two other hard boats on the same stretch of river that afternoon.

Summer Begins Today

2010-06-21T16:16:00.002-06:00

It could be July before the Boise River is worth fishing. Caddis must be ready to pop once the flow drops. I've seen a few in the street lights at night. Some years I'm wading and catching fish on the surface in late May. Not this year.

Sun is in the forecast. It's going to happen soon....

PMDawn

2010-06-17T23:09:00.033-06:00

While tying patterns to imitate emerging mayflies, Pale Morning Duns are the first crawler species to come to mind for our waters. When big trout are feeding, seeing dorsal fins but not heads can mean no takes on even a low-riding dry fly. If you're willing to fish a dropper, try running this pattern 15 inches beneath the surface. The fly combines elements of other well-established nymphs, but I felt it deserved its own name anyway. For the record, I don't like hip-hop/R&B...

PMDawn (Click if you want to torture youself. As though Spandau Ballet wasn't bad enough the first time.)
Hook - TMC 2487 #16-18
Thread - 8/0 Wine or Rust
Tail/Shuck - TroutLie PMD Emergence Dubbing
Abdomen - Mahogany Goose Biot
Wing - White McFlylon
Thorax - Peacock Ice Dubbing

Enough Rain Already

2010-06-08T10:09:00.011-06:00

Getting geared up for a June trout bender road trip. With the lack of snowpack, this was a summer when many options were to be had for early dry fly fishing. But it has felt more like Portland than Boise this spring. Rain-triggered snow melt swelled rivers almost overnight. Dams elsewhere are cutting loose. Really feel bad for the good folks of Payette with flooded homes – that’s the worst of it.

Now I’m not a complete purist yet; I’ll still crimp on some lead and fish the bobber. I just won’t drive hundreds of miles to do it, especially when the best dry fly fishing in the western U.S. is going to take off on our own waters. Just need a some more heat.

The trout bender road trip may have to wait.

Big water (small) dry fly combo of choice: Sage SLT 490, Abel PT5, Scientific Anglers GPX WF4F.

June Bug

2010-05-28T08:29:00.009-06:00

Even though Memorial Day weekend comes late this year, it feels as though the general opener has snuck up on us due to the cold, wet spring. Silver Creek may get off to a slow start, though I’m not one who likes making predictions. Time to go somewhere and find out. Make the fishing report rather than react to one.

Upland birds will be hatching in another couple weeks. Really need some warm sunshine soon to ensure a healthy brood.

Go get bent this weekend. Success can be found by knowing what trout have been keying on for the past month or two…rather than looking for what may or may not be hatching now.

And please remember to pay tribute to our troops, past and present.

Reheated

2010-04-30T10:47:00.009-06:00

Cold wind, rain, hail - repeat. Not conducive to consistent fishing conditions or enjoyable little league baseball. And today it’s as if the weather knows the state boundary. I don’t care whether the AC in my vehicle works because even in the heat of summer I’m looking forward to just rolling down the windows.

Cedar planked some hatchery steelhead fillets from Costco the other night. Don't try to tell me the ones you caught in April are just as good to eat. If you don’t eat the leftover fish with eggs the next morning, here’s a favorite recipe…. Toss broken bread heels in the blender. You might have to shake it around between blends. In a bowl, wisk together a soup spoon of mayo, some dijon mustard and an egg. (I measure with soup spoons; precision only matters when casting dry flies.) Stir in some Old Bay and your favorite dried herb. Fold in the bread crumbs and fish, then form them into patties. Brown in a skillet with butter for a few minutes on each side.

Use Cee Dub's smell test. If you can’t smell it, it isn’t done. If it smells burned, it’s burned. If it smells done, it’s done.

Euro-Trash Girl...err, Fish

2010-04-13T16:33:00.015-06:00

Fly fishing for carp has gained popularity in recent years. Carp are starting to wake up in the Snake River, and they serve as an alternative quarry in the spring and summer. If you’ve fished for them, you know that sight casting to cruising carp in shallow water is challenging. If you don’t spook them with your arm motion or fly line, they still may want nothing to do with your offering.

I had some recent success, and now I’ve set a goal to catch one this summer on a dry fly. I think with the Snake River’s hexagenia, callibaetis, Russian olives and other berries (carp are omnivores), a surface take should be possible.

This one will take you back. No disrespect to Euro's or carp intended....

"Low" Snowpack

2010-03-17T10:33:00.016-06:00

Unless our state catches some storms before long, we're going to be in for a low water year. "Average" snow pack is the metric almost everyone uses to define a low water year. Anything less than average is considered low. Fair enough. But remember, about half of all years are below average...and 50% of everyone you know is below average, according to Steven Wright.

It's reasonable to expect valley rain and mountain snow in April and May. That will help.

Reservoirs prevent flooding in high water years and reserve water in low water years. I plan to enjoy our rivers coming into fishing shape early this summer.

March 1 data courtesy of the Natural Resources Conservation Service Idaho Snow Survey Program.

Long Lines, Taxes, and Fee Hikes

2010-03-03T17:12:00.009-07:00

Waiting in line, taxes, and fee hikes. Unless you don’t value your personal time and money, you probably don’t embrace any of these things. But as a responsible citizen, you do what you can to accept them in most cases…or at least recognize that they’re part of life (so long as you’re not a former member of the Montana Freemen).

As state governments are clamping down on wildlife agency budgets, and as the nation seems primed for inflation, licenses and fees are on the rise. Drop by a fly shop or sporting goods store and you’ll hear sportsmen grumbling about it. In a time when it’s difficult to find disposable income, the disenchantment is understandable.

One of the biggest fishing license fee increases this year was in Oregon. Non-residents are now required to pay $106.25, up from $61.50 in 2009. However, let’s try to put the costs of outdoor recreation, mainly fishing, in perspective.

Here are the annual resident and non-resident fishing license fees by state in our region:

Idaho $25.75 $98.25
Oregon $33 $106.25
Montana $26 $70
Washington $24 $48

Here's a list of other random costs, some more necessary than others:

Weekend round of golf at Shadow Valley with cart, $55. (Roughly half of an annual Oregon non-resident license.)

Little league baseball registration, $75. (Roughly equal to an annual Montana non-resident license.)

One night, standard room at the Salmon Rapids Lodge in Riggins, $102. (Roughly equal to an annual Oregon non-resident license.)

Gas for 200-mile round trip at 18 mpg, $30. (Roughly equal to a resident license in any western state.)

CableOne high-speed internet and premium cable TV, $125/month. (Higher than any annual non-resident license yet lasts 1/12 as long, and do you really need it?)

Fish and game management is necessary, simply put. An annual license gives you the right to enjoy the outdoors for a fraction of the cost of countless other activities. I’ve never felt cheated when helping fund the agencies that work to preserve and protect what we enjoy so much.

Baited

2010-02-27T20:43:00.009-07:00

Check out this Boise River casualty. Yes it's "just one fish" but it still hurts to see it gilled. There simply aren't many like this to go around. And there will not be any regulation changes in 2011 to help restrict harvest. Low winter flows bring out savvy baiters. Help educate them if they're willing to listen. There is no good reason to put these fish in the freezer.

Spring Social Events Calendar

2010-02-12T13:22:00.018-07:00

After a thawing January and temperatures now in the 50's, midges and baetis are popping on our streams and the spring steelhead bite is on. If you can't get after it right now, or if you can but still have time for a Saturday night out, consider the Costa Fly Fishing Film Tour on February 20. Many of us will be swilling some brew at the Idaho Angler beforehand.

There will also be a huge conglomeration of enthusiastic fly anglers at the annual Western Idaho Fly Fishing Expo on April 2 and 3 at the DoubleTree Riverside. This is a packed event organized by local clubs. If you are starting out, consider the Programs and Workshops, and be sure to spend some time perusing the Fly Tying Demonstrations. I was flattered to receive an invitation to tie with this talented group of Expo Fly Tiers.

Black and White and Redd All Over

2010-01-29T21:08:00.010-07:00

Who says you need to live in the Wood River Valley to ski and fish in the same day? Triathelete Rich Fernand joined me for a productive afternoon of nymphing with brassies last Sunday. That morning, he skated 15 miles on cross-country skis at Bogus Basin.

There isn't a lot of color during winter, so black and white photos are in order. No matter how mild, winter is always a trying time for big game. This mature mule deer buck, as well as many others, wander nearly into town every year. It's a great time to see wildlife, but letting them rest is a must for their survival.

Bird Season

2009-12-17T21:25:00.019-07:00

Hunting with a young German Shorthaired Pointer female again has been satisfying. I've approached the training this time with more patience and heavy doses of positive reinforcement. (Although the shock collar gets utilized when she ignores me to chase cattle and deer.) Sable still has a long way to go, but she's forced her way through thick brush when necessary and made some beautiful points in the open. She's starting to ignore finches, and she'll hunt for both my Dad and me. Fetching is going to take some work in the off season.

Sharp-shooting Fred Zerza is shown here enjoying the rookie dog and the results of a mild November day.

Although not as colorful as some dyed feathers, pheasants can provide quick and dirty spey flies while requiring few other materials. I sat down at the vise tonight. Using some wire ribbing, crystal flash, a few feathers and dubbing, there is a lot of room for creativity.

Flow Returns to Normal

2009-12-17T21:20:00.003-07:00

The Boise River was dropped back to 270cfs today. It will be in good shape by the weekend. Let's hope it remains there until spring as it is such a great option when you only have a couple hours to get out.

1000 CFS in Town

2009-12-08T10:51:00.005-07:00

In case the single-digit temperatures outside don't discourage you from fishing, the sudden increase in flow should. Forget fishing the Boise River for a couple weeks. It's very strange to see this level in December.

Today, storage at Lucky Peak Reservoir sits at 25%, Arrowrock at 49%, and Anderson Ranch at 65%.

Top 5 Lists

2009-12-04T17:24:00.011-07:00

Top 5 Reasons to Fish the Boise River in December:

5) You can hook steelhead on your 5 wt.
4) You will learn the river's buckets and banks better in low water.
3) You could hit a superfecta of rainbows, browns, steelhead, and whitefish.
2) The fish are concentrated.
1) You don't have to drive far to fish, especially when the roads are bad.

Top 5 Reasons to Not Fish the Boise River in December:

5) You'll catch whitefish.
4) It's still football season.
3) Iced guides and numb toes.
2) You'll need to nymph to do well.
1) You'll leave more runs open for me!

So Many Choices in Fly Rods

2009-11-20T21:59:00.013-07:00

As the trout season is wrapping up for some, there are a few good buys on fly rods from retailers. After having discussions with fishing buds, I thought I’d lay down my angle on high-end rods, why I like them, and why there is nothing wrong with some less expensive rods.

The performance spectrum of today’s graphite fly rods is much narrower than the price range. You can spend anywhere from $70 to $700. Although a dream to cast, to most folks the $700 rod isn’t 10 times better than the $70 rod. Some of today’s cheaper, imported graphite rods are better than the top-of-the-line rods 15 to 20 years ago.

One benefit of today’s high-end rod is warranty, and knowing the company will be around when your rod breaks. The lofty price of the rod is partly for insurance. With high-end rods, you’re getting great components and workmanship. My $79 Powell Advantage 8wt. has been a nice steelhead backup rod. But after a couple years, the glue seal on the handle cracked and allowed water to get in, causing the cork to warp and pull away from the rod. It’s still functional, but in this case I got what I paid for.

As far as casting, the high-end rod does not necessarily make the caster better or provide more distance. Accuracy and drift are more important than distance in trout fishing. Depending on the action, a cheaper rod can do just as well as a high-end rod. It greatly depends on the casting style of the individual.

I choose my rods based upon my own casting style. Cheaper rods are generally slower, and I like a more progressive taper…something that is a result of better design and materials engineering. That cost is passed on to the angler. I want a smooth yet responsive rod, and one I can cast all day with ease. My favorites: the Sage SLT for small dries and Loomis GLX (Classic) for breezy conditions and bigger dries. I like to nymph with the moderately priced Sage FLi. The Sage XP is too fast, all tip flex, and requires too much work to cast.

At one time, a more expensive rod meant you were getting a lighter rod. That gap has narrowed though. The perceived weight of the rod (which will vary with fly line selection) is more important. Test drive whatever rod you want to buy with the line you think you’ll be using on that rod. A Scientific Anglers GPX WF4F is a long-belly line actually sized up a half weight higher. This line will load far differently than an Orvis Wonderline DT4F. But then if you’re even considering using a DT line, you already know this.

Ultra cheap rods like the Cabela’s Three Forks are a waste of $40. I bought a 3wt. for my son and it’s like casting a spinning rod with fly line. It has hardly any tip flex. The stiff, parabolic action sucks entirely, even when lined up with WF4.

Put an indicator and split shot on a high-end rod and you largely take away the rod’s advantage. Soft, cheap rods are fine for lobbing nymph rigs. So are inexpensive faster rods like the Temple Fork Outfitters TiCr. In fact, you almost need the additional lead weight on your line to cast the TiCr with less than 50 feet of line.

So while I think they’re great for backups, inexpensive rods are not my go-to tools. For kids and beginners, choose a softer, inexpensive rod to learn with until the angler develops his or her own casting style and preferences.

To shop locally, stop by the Idaho Angler and see Tim Mansell or Matt Brower.

Pikeminnows in the Boise

2009-10-23T21:59:00.009-06:00

Pulling streamers in the Boise River will unfortunately produce Nothern Pikeminnows, formerly known as Squawfish. I don't recall ever catching this many in town in prior years - and that's not a good thing for young trout. They were especially vulnerable in the rain and low light this evening. I hit several, good-sized Pikeminnows in a 60-minute span while stripping a heavy, double bunny along a bouldered, deep bank…right where young trout hold.

While I’m normally not in favor of killing non-game species, especially native ones, these fish received the “river rock party hat”. The minks will eat well tonight.

Kill a pikeminnow – save some young trout.

Getting the Skunk Off

2009-10-13T15:49:00.017-06:00

The next time you know you’ll be spending a night or two alone on the river, consider taking along Indian Creek Chronicles. It will put those two nights into perspective in terms of time alone.

On a separate note, I have witnessed a fair amount of steelhead fishing success this year by guys using #4 Sportsman’s Warehouse Green-Butt Skunks. But you won’t find one of these flies in my box…and I've recently found myself struggling to catch steelhead. I’ve loved tying sleek, Dec Hogan inspired spey patterns on Alec Jackson hooks. I’ve stuffed a saltwater Morell box full of these elegant flies that pulsate and nearly come alive in the water. But a fat, chenille-wrapped Skunk on a cheap Mustad hook with a narrow gap and an over-sized head? Come on, what gives? Those aren’t supposed to work…today’s steelhead have evolved beyond that, right?

Apparently not. It’s all about finding a “player” when swinging.

Truthfully, the best steelhead fly is probably the one you have the most confidence in.

A Trout's View

2009-09-28T22:17:00.006-06:00

The cold front coming from the west this week will probably finish off the trico hatch along the Boise River. You might say this underwater photo from last Sunday morning was taken with a "fisheye" lens. Unfortunately, these bugs were not enough to bring big fish to the surface. Maybe baetis will later this fall.

Fall is Here

2009-09-07T21:47:00.022-06:00

Even though it is officially still summer, Labor Day always seems to mark the beginning of fall for me. Upland bird season will be open in a couple weeks and there are already fishable numbers of steelhead in Idaho. What a predicament.

I have huge expectations for a new-to-us German Shorthaired Pointer, "Sable". But with incredible early numbers of steelhead, some amount of bird hunting will have to be compromised. She'll have more stamina once the weather cools anyway. And getting the rattlesnakes in the ground always makes me more at ease too.

Hatchery A-Run steelhead from the Salmon River will make it to the grill. If we're fortunate to land some true wild fish, they'll provide for memorable stories and a toast around the campfire.

Ann Morrison Park has become a popular place for practicing with the two-handed rod. Eric Becker forms a D-loop with his Echo Classic 14' 9wt on Labor Day.

A spey casting video that may leave you wanting to improve your abilities.

South Fork Boise

2009-08-31T10:40:00.008-06:00

The discharge from Anderson Dam has been anything but static and boring this summer. The majority of the river will be easy to wade once it drops to 600cfs – and that should happen any day now. The fish are in amazing shape, and a couple recent rainbows were into my backing in a flash. I’ve been reminded that it is possible for TMC 100’s to bend out even with 5x. No worries, seeing the take and hooking them is the most fun anyway…and there are plenty of others that made it to the net.

River Vent

2009-08-25T15:00:00.005-06:00

I realize again this summer that there is no end to the lunacy on the river. I’ll hand out shuttle rides, beers, and flies to almost anyone, almost being the key word. Take it for what it’s worth:

• Paved boat ramps do not exist so that you can take 60 minutes to inflate your raft, tie down your gear, pack your coolers, string up your rods, and put on your waders. For gawd’s sake man, prepare for your float, back down the ramp, launch, and get out.
• No, I do not have a heavier anchor than you. And you do not need a heavier anchor. Rather than dredging the river bottom, get your boat into calmer water if you want to stop. This may mean you need to improve your rowing abilities so that you can navigate somewhere other than the middle of the river.
• If we are anchored and casting out of one side of the boat, go around the other side – especially since that side is going to be the main stem anyway.
• Pouring fuel on a log to get a fire going is a bad idea. Next time bring an axe and make some tinder. And turn down that crappy Garth Brooks too.
• If you see fish taking small dries, you don’t need to pound a hopper on 3x into the pod just because the fly shop told you to use hoppers. No real harm here – the fish will usually ignore the hopper and keep feeding. Just don’t tell me I should “try a hopper” when I’m throwing to these fish and then expect me to give you a fly when I hook up. And by the way, there’s more than one small dry fly that will catch those fish. “Send it and mend it”, as they say.

If you read this and see me on the river, stop by for a beer. Good fishing and peace out.

Boise River Getting More Brown Trout

2009-08-05T13:45:00.015-06:00

For the first time since 1998, the Idaho Department of Fish and Game is once again stocking fingerling German Brown trout in the Boise River.

15,000 fish were released in July of this year. Jeff Dillon, the Southwest Regional Fishery Manager, says "We intend to stock similar numbers of brown trout for at least three years. All of the stocked fish were adipose-clipped so we can tell them from naturally produced fish, and we plan to continue monitoring fish populations in the lower Boise about every three years. If, after a few years, the clipped fish are well represented in the overall brown trout population, we will know it is worth the effort and will try to continue stocking in the future. If the contribution of stocked fish is very small we might opt to discontinue the program."

I'm excited to keep my own records of adipose-clipped vs. naturally produced Browns over the next several years. This is a great chance to witness what hopefully turns out to be a successful Brown trout management plan in the Boise River.

The Boise River's Brown trout stocking records back to 1990 are sorted chronologically below. Brown trout were also stocked in the 1970's and 1980's.

Date Type/Size Number
7/6/2009 Fingerling 15,010
4/10/1998 Fry 5,280
6/17/1997 Fingerling 15,520
6/16/1997 Fingerling 14,356
7/24/1996 Fingerling 16,540
7/23/1996 Fingerling 17,150
4/19/1995 Fingerling 28,192
4/20/1994 Fingerling 9,081
4/20/1994 Fingerling 18,163
6/8/1993 Fingerling 9,975
6/7/1993 Fingerling 3,164
6/7/1993 Fingerling 14,250
5/18/1992 Fingerling 5,060
5/14/1992 Fingerling 22,000
6/5/1991 Fingerling 27,000
6/13/1990 Fingerling 10,530
6/13/1990 Fingerling 7,020
6/13/1990 Fingerling 10,530

Trout Bender 2009, Part IV

2009-07-28T22:43:00.028-06:00

The Missouri River was flat out the climax of Trout Bender 2009. This tail water below Holter Dam fishes like a huge, clear spring creek with weedy gravel bottoms, and bent-for-your-backing rainbows and browns that like to feed around the surface.

During the morning launch, the crowds were heavy. This only caused frustration when ignorant guys throwing nymphs and indicators shot their boats through the foam line I was working with dries. Other times, like evening, finding solitude and feeding fish required only some patience. When the weather was lousy, a few fish could still be had by pulling streamers. But what it's really about on the Missouri, and any other great river, is turning over small dries on 5x with a soft rod to big heads pushing water.

If you pass through Craig, MT to fish the Missouri, make sure you stop by the Headhunters Fly Shop. Refill your cooler with ice, pick up some tippet, and you just might get some advice and a couple bonus flies from Mark Raisler. This guy loves the Missouri River and reminded us of Owen Wilson and Jeff Spicoli. (He's that funny and cool at the same time.) And if you have an off-color web site, he just might link to it.

There are also so many fishing options in Montana that there is no one destination. And there is certainly more than one way to get to the Missouri. You're only a few miles from fishing no matter which route you take. I know my adventure this summer will keep me going back for years to come.

"All I need are some tasty waves, a cool buzz, and I'm fine."

Trout Bender 2009, Part III

2009-07-24T12:42:00.005-06:00

Traveling 75mph across central Montana’s divided highways will accomplish a couple things. One, you’ll get passed by vehicles with Montana plates. Two, you’ll find unpressured creeks (not managed as blue ribbon streams) teeming with eager trout.

Getting away from well-known rivers and catching these fish reminded me what it’s like to stick trout that have never been hooked before. No torn gill plates or sores, just feisty wild rainbows trying their best to get away from the force that’s pulling them from their niche.

Trout Bender 2009, Part II

2009-07-23T11:12:00.006-06:00

I brake for cutts. Highway 12 has to be one of the most scenic corridors in the nation. Westlope cutthroats provide a mindless break after throwing to fussy rainbows and browns. The canyon rivers are always a great place to find some shade while stopping for lunch. And they're relatively free of wind and other anglers.

Trout Bender 2009, Part I

2009-07-22T09:31:00.006-06:00

It was late June this year and every reservoir in the state was at capacity. How did this happen? Fishing outfitters were taking it in the shorts, rafting outfitters were loving it, and the fish were getting a break. The Bureau of Reclamation has apparently become paranoid about conserving water. Short term memory serves global warming farceur Al Gore as well as the Department of the Interior. Just ten years ago, our tail waters were cut loose in early spring to make room for the runoff. Not this year...not after the drought years.

The boat crowds on the South Fork Boise are now making up for lost time. As a result, I largely neglected our local waters (including the river in town) and spent a couple trout benders in Montana, Northern Idaho, and Eastern Idaho while in route.

Travis Thompson reaching to a slurping rainbow on the Ranch. More to come on endless western piscatorial opportunities….

Fish Eater in SE Boise

2009-05-06T22:53:00.003-06:00

I noticed this Osprey today at lunch - it's nesting on top of the Eastgate shopping center and seems to be making frequent trips to the river in town. Good thing there will be plenty of fin-less triploids available for it this summer.

Hyde vs. Clack

2009-04-17T23:26:00.012-06:00

If you're considering buying a drift boat, the pros and cons of Hyde vs. Clackacraft boats themselves can be debated ad nauseam. But if you haven't already considered the aspect of customer service, read on.

I rowed a Hyde Low Profile for four years. When it was time to put my young kids in the boat, as well as time to tackle bigger water like the Salmon River, I wanted a high side. Hyde's trade-in offer for my used low profile...$1250. I didn't need another lousy Hyde for that price. I ended up selling it on ebay for just $400 less than I paid for it after rowing it for four seasons.

I bought a 16' WF Clackacraft that same year (2003) in Idaho Falls. The boat handles big water, accomodates us on overnight canyon trips, and is really fun to row. And here's the kicker.... Gritty winter conditions along the Clearwater put small holes in the boat cover and even caused the cinch rope to tear. Clackacraft not only repaired the cover free of charge, but also re-enforced it such that it is better than its original, new condition. Also, a storage box latch recently snapped off due to cold conditions and human error. Clackacraft promptly shipped me a new one, no questions asked.

Seems as though Clackacraft in interested in keeping its existing customers happy. Hyde is caught up in driving a hard bargain - looking for the next sale but not understanding what really matters.

Early Spring, Low Water, Big Trout

2009-03-15T18:30:00.008-06:00

It's the middle of March and the Boise River water temperature is 35 degrees F, about 2 degrees warmer than it has been over the past winter. That means big trout are becoming more active and moving into shallow, fishable water. This chunky 19" wild Rainbow, along with several other small fish, made for a great Sunday morning. There were even a few fish taking midges on the surface.

Unfortunately, a 19" rainbow like this one is all too rare in town. The Boise River Creel Survey Results (blog entry October 24, 2008) indicates that fish this size only represent 1-2% of the population. (19" is about 480mm.) This river deserves a regulation change that gives it a shot at becoming a trophy destination.

Laying Trout in the Snow

2009-02-25T16:39:00.004-07:00

If you fish during the winter (and are successful), please realize that laying trout in the snow is a bad idea. Doing so stresses the fish in more ways than one. The freezing snow and ice will first destroy the trout’s protective slime composed of glycoproteins. The slime allows the fish to fight parasites, protects wounds from becoming infected, and keeps the fish’s skin “dry”.

If destroying the slime doesn’t kill the fish, then frostbite, or frozen tissue and cell death, will. You may even freeze the fish’s eyeball. Finally, gill damage is likely to occur as the fish gasps cold air while lying on the snow.

In fact, you’re better off not even removing the fish from the water. If you need a photograph, lay the trout in shallow water around smooth rocks, preferably while it is still in your net.

Sue

2009-01-20T23:06:00.004-07:00

Abe's Owyhee Sue
July 29, 1994 - January 19, 2009

If you're a bird hunter, you may know how hard it is to lose your companion.

Sue didn't have much to do with the Boise River, other than enjoying walks and runs along its banks.

We'll miss her.

Whitetail and Mule Deer Bucks

2009-01-09T11:16:00.007-07:00

Turns out this 6x7 is probably both. This rare hybrid buck was photographed by Richard Puzio along the Boise River this month. Roger Phillips of the Idaho Statesman got pretty excited about the sighting and discussed the animal with Brad Compton, an IDFG State Wildlife Biologist. Here's what Roger told me:

According to Brad, it “shows all the characteristics” of a hybrid. The gold standard is a DNA test, or measuring the metatarsal gland, which would be under three inches on a hybrid and probably the most conclusive measurement outside a DNA test.

Brad also said biologists once thought hybrids were rare, and were also sterile, but they’ve found multigenerational DNA, which disproved that. There’s also theory that mule deer and whitetails have different strategies to avoid predators, but hybrids have neither and tend to get consumed because of that.

If it’s a hybrid, it’s probably from a whitetail buck and a mule deer doe, Brad said.

Having hunted deer for over 20 years, I don't recall ever seeing a drop tine on a buck. What a unique circumstance to have this animal along the river. If you get a glimpse of him while fishing, I'd love to hear about it.

Cast a Caption

2009-01-07T13:14:00.010-07:00

Each issue, Northwest Fly Fishing magazine hosts a "Cast a Caption" contest. My wife Wendy was one of three finalist in the September/October 2008 issue with her caption "I still think you'll need your gills for oxygen".

Archived winners can be viewed at Northwest Fly Fishing Cast a Caption Archive.

Northwest Fly Fishing is an excellent publication with its featured fishing locations, photography, and innovative fly patterns.

Gear Maintenance

2008-12-27T10:02:00.015-07:00

While I maintain my gear all year, winter is the time when I really check it over. I replace cracked line, check and re-tie knots, wax the Clackacraft (maybe every other year), and re-enforce wader patches.

With autumn dry fly action over, my dad Fred handed me his Hardy Flyweight. He claimed the drag had gone soft. I was mistaken when I thought I could replace the spring and pawl and fix it. After years of trout screaming out line on this reel, the spool gear...every tooth on it...had been worn to a nub. The top photo shows the worn spool; the bottom photo is a newer spool.
This same reel also has a groove in the line guard from trout taking out fly line. Some might suggest that this wear shows a weakness with Hardy reels. I'd say the wear is an indication that Fred may rank as a guy who's caught as many Idaho trout on a dry fly as anyone.

Cold Smoking

2008-12-17T22:38:00.020-07:00

Swirling winds, 4 inches of fresh snow, and 32 degrees F on the thermometer. Last weekend brought just the right conditions to find some solitude on the water. I walked down to the river from the house last Sunday intending to keep a mess of whitefish for the smoker. Instead, all I could hook were these bright wild rainbows.

Focus! It was time to concentrate on a glass of malbec, some slices of manchego, and smoked whitefish fillets. But the trout kept coming. I was persistent and eventually started hitting some pods of whitefish.The reward for my labor. Merry Christmas - enjoy the season and enjoy the food.

Fall Colors

2008-12-09T13:21:00.004-07:00

The Cottonwoods along the Boise River were spectacular this year. The brisk nights and mild daytime temperatures provided a long window to enjoy this year's vibrant display.

Fishing wise, I spend far more time nymphing now. I'll keep an eye out for fish looking up for midges or baetis, savoring any dry fly opportunity.

Steelheading in winter can be productive when rain pushes the Clearwater or Salmon River water temperature up a couple degrees. I'm hoping this winter is a short one, and that the snowstorms stay in the higher elevations.

Thoughts on the IDFG Creel Survey

2008-10-31T14:03:00.008-06:00

The IDFG estimates that up to 400 wild trout were harvested in 12 months. But what doesn't exist cannot be harvested. With years of steady wild trout harvest, a large population density cannot thrive. Building one with stricter regulations would not happen overnight either.

Fishing regulations that require the release of spawning class trout (greater than 14") simply keep more fish in any river. The regulations also provide for better reproduction. This has been proven on many quality rivers such as the South Fork of the Boise, South Fork of the Snake, and the Big Wood.

If angler harvest has little impact on the Boise River's wild trout population, why are so few wild fish found near the bridges and other easy access points? Certainly there are other causes of fish mortality in the Boise River. But I am not convinced that there is little to gain from tightening the regulations on a substantial stretch through town.

Please consume the hatchery fish and let the wild ones go....

Boise River Creel Survey Results

2008-10-24T11:05:00.006-06:00

Future Boise River fishing regulation changes suffered a large setback this week. Preliminary results from the Idaho Department of Fish and Game’s year-long creel survey revealed that angler harvest of wild trout may be fairly insignificant.

From June 2007 to June 2008, anglers were interviewed along the banks of the Boise River from Barber Dam to Americana Blvd. Here are the draft results:

• 7,600 Rainbow trout were caught. 1,420 were harvested, giving an 81% catch and release rate.
• Of the 1,420 Rainbows harvested, 227 were wild (one in six).
• Approximately 287 Brown trout were caught, but not one was harvested by the anglers surveyed.
• 1,000 anglers were questioned, though approximately 200 had fished less than 30 minutes and were not included in the analysis.
• The river received an estimated 10,000 hours of total fishing pressure for the 12- month period.
• Average trip duration was just over two hours.

Jeff Dillon points out that the department has little data from completed fishing trips. Most anglers surveyed were still fishing when questioned. So he estimates that perhaps up to 400 wild Rainbows were harvested. Jeff also acknowledges that there is some Brown trout harvest. But since they never witnessed any, it must be very low.

As illustrated below, the size of the fish harvested aligns well with population survey performed in October, 2007.

Still to be completed by the IDFG is a study of growth rates and mortality causes. If the wild trout are growing at a decent rate, and Jeff suspects they are, then it will be valuable to understand the mortality causes. He hopes to have a more comprehensive presentation by late 2008 or early 2009 to give to local fishing clubs.

Having personally spent many hours on the river, it simply seems as though there should be more large wild fish, given what is scientifically known about the Boise River population and angler harvest.

As always, special thanks to Jeff Dillon for providing this information and appreciating our interest in this unique urban resource.

Autumn Bliss

2008-10-07T10:21:00.018-06:00

Late September and early October have produced the best fishing of the year. With daytime temperatures in the low 90's and great hatches, big trout have been feeding in the surface film sometimes all day long.

Our summer steelhead run is two weeks ahead of schedule this year and fish are scattered throughout the Snake and Salmon River systems. Randy Baxter and I met up with Charlie Erdman last week for some good conversation and productive fishing. October will continue to produce aggressive steelhead takes. I am hoping to fish again soon before cold weather sets in.

Kids Fly Fishing

2008-08-20T13:44:00.014-06:00

My 6-year old son Adam enjoys catching bluegill in local ponds. He ties his own flies as well, and after I de-barb the hook, he organizes them in his fly box. Trout flies on one side, steelhead on the other.

Little League Baseball phenom Joe Puzio can throw a tight loop and roll cast at age 10. He and his father Richard do well on the mountainous reaches of the different Boise River forks.

End of Summer

2008-08-16T22:11:00.018-06:00

In June, the Boise River levels fluctuated almost daily. Along with cooler weather, fishing was unpredictable and the caddis hatch was delayed by weeks. The river has been stable at 1300cfs for most of July and August. While this is relatively high compared to recent years, the river is still fishable and productive.

I was working on casting my two-handed rod one evening this week and found myself in the middle of a very strong PMD hatch. But armed with only 16lb tippet and a couple steelhead patterns, I had to ignore rising trout.

I'm posting a few photos from a memorable summer on waters other than the Boise River.

We're Not the Only Ones Fishing this Time of Year

2008-01-23T14:47:00.000-07:00

This stunning photo of a bald eagle was recently taken by my good friend Richard Puzio of Boise. The Boise River is a great place to view wildlife, especially in winter. And this photo reminds us that there is more than one type of fisherman.

Staying Deep

2008-01-06T21:21:00.000-07:00

When the river isn't producing, hang with it a bit longer and change tactics. The water has been exceptionally clear this winter, and I'm having to fish in deeper water than normal.

This weekend provided another 17" wild rainbow. He was "Princed" (as the Zen of nymph fisherman Andy Simon would say). These fish are tremendous fighters even in winter. What a great place to log some quality time on the water without a long drive. Angling pressure is light, probably with the NFL playoffs happening.

Winter Fishing

2007-12-30T14:26:00.000-07:00

Holding water is easily recognized during the winter when flows are low. Fishing pressure is relatively light and a few steelhead remain in the system. I was thrilled today with this wild male rainbow that took a #18 brassie.

This is also the time of year when there seems to be a clown show of littering bait fisherman. As if littering on the bank was not enough, this guy chucked his Walmart bag loaded with hooks, swivels, and split shot into the middle of the river. Some advice for those who treat the river like a trash can - styrofoam and monofilament line are not biodegradable.

Deep Water Browns

2007-10-23T09:36:00.000-06:00

Eric Becker's persistent nymphing was rewarded with this heavy Boise River German Brown trout on the morning of October 22. These large Browns typically hold in very deep water, making them difficult to catch with a fly rod. However, a strong summer hatch of caddis or PMD's will sometimes bring these bruisers to the surface in the evening. The overwhelming opinion from those who visit this site is to require all Boise River Brown trout to be released. With IDFG electro-fishing surveys beginning again in October 2007, on-going growth rate studies, and angler harvest surveys, 2010 could be the year for regulation changes.

Update to Possible Regulation Changes

2007-09-17T20:36:00.000-06:00

The IDFG is currently conducting streamside angler surveys to help determine harvest data on the Lower Boise River. These "creel surveys" should last from June 2007 through June 2008. The Department is also sampling wild fish for growth rate studies. So while there are no changes coming in 2008, I am very encouraged that there may be a proposal to the Commission in 2010.

Another electro-fishing survey will be performed this fall. This 22" rainbow caught by Fred Zerza is a testament to what the river can produce. With stricter regulations, we could enjoy many more wild fish like this one.

Summer PMD's

2007-06-29T23:01:00.000-06:00

Explore the Boise River. Get away from the crowds. Be patient and look closely. This is the time of year when you can find decent fish slurping PMD's on a hot summer evening. This plump 16" rainbow put up an aerial battle that would rival any Henry's Fork fish. Photographed on June 28, 2007.

Proposed Changes for the 2008-09 Fishing Regulations on the Lower Boise River

2007-06-05T21:12:00.000-06:00

Thanks to everyone who has shown support for regulation changes on the Lower Boise River. My proposal given to Jeff Dillon on May 21, 2007 is available here:

IDFG Proposal

Please watch for future public meetings with the IDFG between now and November, 2007.

The Boise River Fishing Survey

2007-04-25T13:40:00.001-06:00

If you have ever fished the Boise River, please take a few minutes to complete this anonymous, brief Boise River Fishing Survey. By doing so, you will provide valuable information regarding how the river is enjoyed as a fishery.

Results will be published later this summer on this site, and they will also be given to the Idaho Department of Fish & Game.

Thank you!

The 2004 IDFG Lower Boise River Fishery Survey

2007-04-17T21:34:00.000-06:00

The IDFG and USGS electrofished three sections of the lower Boise River in November 2004. The middle section of their survey included a portion of the "Quality Management" stretch (East Boise River Footbridge upstream to the Loggers Creek diversion). The lower and upper sections of their survey are managed under the general regulations. Here are some of the key data points that support stricter regulations:

"Much like the lower Boise River, the Big Wood River is very productive, contains brown trout, and has had a Quality Trout regulation in effect for more than eight years...." I would love to see another fish survey on the lower Boise River after eight years of stricter regulations. Much of the Big Wood River is currently managed as Catch-and-Release.

"Our sampling and observations suggests that while the upper river is well suited for juvenile rearing, fish likely move downstream to occupy deeper habitats as they grow larger." Perhaps the IDFG should consider extending the Quality Management stretch upstream from the Loggers Creek diversion.

"Wild rainbow trout abundance (fish/km > 100 mm) in the middle section was very similar to the South Fork of the Boise River (SFBR) near Cow Creek." This stretch of the South Fork of the Boise River is managed as: No bait, barbless hooks, trout limit 2, none under 20". A similar regulation would seem appropriate for the Quality Management stretch of lower Boise River.

Perhaps the most compelling evidence of the fishery survey is the lack of abundance of fish greater than 14" in any section. This suggests that anglers are harvesting these fish, and that stricter regulations are necessary if we want more large wild trout in the lower Boise River.

I encourage you to read the entire 2004 Lower Boise River Fishery Survey . Special thanks to Jeff Dillon, the IDFG Southwest Region Fisheries Manager, for making the report available to us.

How Idaho Fishing Regulation Changes are Realized

2007-03-30T08:46:00.000-06:00

If you have a rule that you would like to see modified, the Idaho Deparment of Fish & Game suggests that you "contact your regional Fish and Game office and ask for the fisheries staff". Each region collects proposed rule changes and then selects several to be brought to the public for comments. The Commission will be approving final changes in November, 2007 for the 2008-2009 Regulations.

I would like to accomplish an organized effort that shows the high level of support by the public for stricter regulations for trout on the Boise River. If you agree, you can help greatly by completing the Petition to the Idaho Department of Fish & Game and the Boise River Fishing Survey.

I will provide this information to the Fish & Game this summer. The Southwest Region can be contacted at (208)465-8465. Their office is located at 3101 S. Poleline Rd., Nampa, ID 83686.

How Well Could the Boise River Fish?

2007-03-28T15:25:00.000-06:00

The Idaho Department of Fish & Game was surprised by what their own 2004 Lower Boise River electrofishing survey revealed. They discovered wild trout populations in some stretches that rival those in the Big Wood River (approximately 2200 per mile).

The only section of the Boise River managed by special rules is that stretch from the East Boise River Footbridge upstream to the Loggers Creek diversion. The trout limit there is 2 fish, none under 14 inches in length. The rest of the river allows fishermen to keep the general bag limit of 6 trout. There are no special gear or method-of-take restrictions on the Boise River, such as single, barbless hooks.

There is great value to both the community and to the Fish & Game to maintain much of the river as a put-and-take or consumable fishery. Hatchery trout and steelhead should continue to be stocked in those sections of the river managed under the general regulations. However, having a quality, wild trout fishery right in town would bring an additional unique attraction to the area.

To find out how good of a fishery the river could be, the regulations need to be changed. Perhaps the most logical stretch for this regulation change is that already protected by special rules (East Boise River Footbridge upstream to the Loggers Creek diversion). It already holds one the densest wild trout populations in the river. Anglers should be required to use single, barbless hooks, artificial flies and lures only, and practice catch-and-release for trout in this section of the Boise River.

The Idaho Department of Fish & Game will be reviewing rules this year for establishing the 2008-2009 fishing regulations. Proposed rule changes need to be brought to their attention by June, 2007. I plan to do that with information gathered from this site.