Salmon River
OptimalIdaho
Current Conditions
The Salmon River is running at 2,490 CFS — ideal conditions. Expect clear water and excellent dry fly opportunities.
Last updated: Apr 5, 2026, 1:00 AM from USGS gauge 13302500 (Salmon River at Salmon)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 1000–3000 CFS | Fishable to 8000 CFS | Marginal to 15000 CFS
About the Salmon River
Idaho's "River of No Return" is the longest undammed river in the lower 48 outside Alaska. The main Salmon offers exceptional wilderness fishing for steelhead, chinook salmon, and resident trout in one of the most remote settings in the West.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salmon Fly Chubby Chernobyl #6 | ||||||||||||
Golden Stonefly Stimulator #8 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Dave's Hopper #8 |
Active Hatches — April
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18
River Sections
Stanley to Salmon
wade/float access1,470 CFS
Upper Salmon through the Sawtooth Valley. Beautiful mountain setting with cutthroat and steelhead.
Salmon to North Fork
float access2,490 CFS
Middle Salmon with larger water. Steelhead and chinook runs plus resident trout.
Guides on the Salmon River(30)
These fishing guides list the Salmon River as one of their home waters.
Bill Dvorak’s Expeditions
Nathrop, Colorado
Bighorn Outfitters
Idaho
Confluences River Expeditions
Cascade, Idaho
Exodus Salmon River Rafting
Moscow, Idaho
Far and Away Adventures
Idaho
Fly Fish McCall / Rapid River Outfitters
Riggins, Idaho
Hughes River Expeditions
Lolo, Idaho
Idaho River Adventures
Salmon, Idaho
Idaho River Journeys
Pollock, Idaho
Killgore Adventures
Idaho
Middle Fork River Expeditions
Stanley, Idaho
Middle Fork River Tours
Sandpoint, Idaho
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Salmon River?+
The Salmon River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The salmon fly hatch in late June/early July is one of the year's most exciting events. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Salmon River in April?+
In April, the Salmon River sees Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include BWO Parachute #18. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Salmon River?+
Outguided lists 30 fishing guides who operate on the Salmon River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Salmon River?+
The Salmon River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations. Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 1000–3000 CFS.
What fish species are in the Salmon River?+
The Salmon River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds
USGS Gauges
Salmon River at Salmon
Station #13302500
Salmon River near Clayton
Station #13296500