Big Wood River Idaho Fly Fishing

The Big Wood River is one of the best rivers in Idaho for rainbow trout fishing. The river starts in the mountains north of Sun Valley and flows all the way to Magic Reservoir. The whole river is available for fishing, though the middle and lower sections are popular as they have the greatest rainbow population.

The Big Wood River flows through the Wood River Valley and through the towns of Ketchum, Hailey and Bellevue, Idaho. All fishing is done by wading as the Big Wood is a classic freestone river with riffles, pools and pocket water. Since 1992 there has been a catch and release regulation for most of the river. Some sections have a two kill limit. These regulation ensure the safety of the rainbow trout population and larger fish have been caught each year. The Big Wood River is advertised as a place where fishermen of all abilities will find success. Experts advise fishermen to use dry flies, nymphs and streamers. Rainbows range in size from 10-20 inches. The river's water level is affected by mountain snow runoff, though it usually wadeable by late June. Summer fishing is plentiful with Western Green Drakes, Yellow Stonefly and Mayfly hatches. Anyone looking for a scenic and successful fishing experience will find it on the Big Wood.