Lewiston, Idaho Fishing Report 09.06.18
Lochsa River (ID)
The current flow is 474 cfs at Lowell. With all this cool weather, the region has been fishing very well for anglers who are giving this river their time. I have been told the flies that are working consist of various caddis patterns, elk hair, CDC caddis, to the Grey Wulff, parachute adams, and even some grasshoppers and bigger attractor flies. You should be able to find yourself some bigger fish since they should be starting to move out of the tributaries. Plus, there will be the same ol’ delays on the road construction. Expect 15 to 30-minute delays.
North Fork Clearwater River (ID)
The current flow is 765 cfs at Canyon Ranger Station. The NF was slow for some folks who fished it this past week. Yet, I know of anglers who love to fish it this time of year because most folks are focusing their own efforts on elk. Using a hopper dropper is the way we would be fishing if we had the chance. Bobber fishing can be productive as well. You’ll want to throw three of your favorite nymphs ranging in sizes from a 14-18 with your biggest fly on top. Plus, zebra midges, caddis pupa, and hare’s ear are productive flies. Stimulators and other attractor dry flies should bring some fish out too.
Clearwater River (ID)
The current flow is 7,360 cfs at Spalding. The river is on the drop. The Corp is slowly shutting of Dworshak. This is going to start bringing more fish to hand for anglers. The CW fishes really well when it is on the drop. Tuesday evening, we finally landed our first fish of the season. The fly that worked was a lady caroline rifle hitched. Small and sparse are productive flies this time of year too. And, the river is starting to feel very fishy each time we’re on the water. Prepare yourself to start running into more and more spey casters.
Grande Ronde (WA)
The current flow is 524 cfs at Troy, Oregon. The river came down after its big rise from the rain last week. We heard of one angler going and trying to get a steelhead, only to be surprised by one large smallmouth. With cooler water temperatures, the fishing on the Ronde should start picking up any time now. You’ll find the bass will be friendly with some trout fishing up around Troy. The olive woolly bugger has been a good fly for anglers. Plus, hoppers will still work throughout the day. You’ll want to throw a nymph underneath it and you could have great fishing. The steelhead will be in the river before we know it!
See past reports from the Lewiston region here, or click here to view all northwest regional reports.