Steelhead fishing has really picked up this past week. From below the town of Salmon all the way to just below Challis, fish are being caught. The water has been excellent and the warm November has been good to us allowing the fish to come all the way to just below Challis before slowing down. Catch rates were very good throughout most of the week. Downstream of the Middle Fork confluence in location code 14 anglers averaged 16 hours per steelhead caught, and anglers interviewed downstream of North Fork in location code 15 averaged 10 hours per steelhead caught. Anglers interviewed downstream of the Lemhi River in location code 16 also averaged 10 hours per steelhead caught, and anglers interviewed downstream of the Pahsimeroi River in location code 17 averaged 8 hours per steelhead caught.

Conventional tackle fisherman have caught fish with bait, bottom bouncing and using floats. Flying C Spinners have been working well when the water has warmed up to make the fish a little more active. A slow fished spoons just about anytime.

Fly anglers have been swinging flies and nymphing, with the traditional darker colors working best. We don’t get a lot of Novembers like this so take advantage of the fishing. There is going to be a little weather this weekend and after that pretty dry with temps in the low thirty’s to close to 40 degrees during the day for the next 10 days, Take advantage and get out on the river.

By the way, trout fishing with an indicator and a Prince nymph in a sizes 12 through 18 or Pheasant Tails 16- through 20 have been taking trout regularly. Swinging Olive Cone Head Bunny bugs can usually bring you a good tug also.

QUIT WISHING and Go FiSHING!, Greg

Don’t miss our huge Black Friday Sale going on Friday and Saturday!