Steelhead move into the lower Salmon River in mid-September as summertime water temperatures cool and provide increasingly exciting fly fishing opportunities until mid-November when the water temps drop into the high 30s. Early season fishing focuses on skating dry flies or swinging traditional wet flies and Spey-style flies, while late season steelhead fishing (which can go into December, weather permitting) relies on sinking tip lines and leech patterns. Fish average 5-10 pounds, with larger fish (12-18 lbs) caught regularly each season. If you are new to steelhead fishing or to the Salmon River, it may be best to initially fish with an experienced guide.

Increasingly, anglers on the Salmon River are using Spey rods to fly fish for steelhead. We've been Spey fishing since 1998 and offer spring and fall Spey casting classes.

The Lower Salmon River is reached by taking Hwy 55 North from Boise to McCall, then traveling northwest to Riggins. Hotel and restaurant services occur in and around Riggins. Road access along the river above and below Riggins is good; however many anglers use drift boats or jet boat to access their favorite holes.