Boise River Fly Fishing Report

There isn't much new to report on the Boise River through town. It's in great shape (clear and low) and is always an easy option throughout the winter months. The steelhead festival is all but over, but there are some stockies still hanging around in the usual spots (in the same areas where resident fish hold). Nymphing is the practical approach.

Regardless of what you're after, there are a good number of productive fishing runs all through the urban section of river -- from Barber Park down through Eagle. Focus your attention on drop off ledges, current seams (where fast water meets slow), flats and tailouts, heavy foam lines, choppy 'diamond' water with moderate depth (3 to 4 feet), overhanging trees and root banks and general 'trouty' looking areas.

Foam lines are great indicators of a concentrated food source (trout water). Try to find water that ties the key structure together.

As always, getting down and dirty with the usual stuff (Large Copper Johns, Prince Nymphs, and Hare's Ears with egg trailers) will get you into fish -- both big browns and bows and hold over steelies. Just rig these under a big, fuzzy indicator and dredge away.

Don't forget the split shot. Get your bugs ticking along the bottom and cover water methodically. Look to hit the river from mid morning to late afternoon for the best window of opportunity.

If you're on the lower end of town, look to hit the river towards Eagle. There are some big noggins down in that neck of the woods. Look for fish in the softer, quiet edges outside of the main channel. These can really produce on fall afternoons.

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