South Fork Snake River
FishableIdaho
Current Conditions
The South Fork Snake River is running at 925 CFS — fishable but higher than ideal. Nymph rigs will outfish dries today. Streamers may produce.
Last updated: Mar 30, 2026, 2:30 AM from USGS gauge 13032500 (South Fork Snake at Heise)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 3000–8000 CFS | Fishable to 16000 CFS | Marginal to 25000 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is cool — ideal for trout activity. Fish will be feeding actively throughout the day.
About the South Fork Snake River
The South Fork of the Snake below Palisades Dam is eastern Idaho's premier trout river. A powerful tailwater that produces large cutthroats and browns, with one of the best salmon fly hatches 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 #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Pale Morning Dun PMD Sparkle Dun #16 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Dave's Hopper #8 |
River Sections
Palisades to Conant Valley
float access925 CFS
Upper canyon section below the dam. Powerful water with big cutthroats. Float fishing is the primary method.
Conant Valley to Heise
float access925 CFS
Lower South Fork through cottonwood-lined valley. Excellent dry fly water during hatches.
Guides on the South Fork Snake River(30)
These fishing guides list the South Fork Snake River as one of their home waters.
America's Rafting Company
Idaho
Lazy Triple Creek Ranch
Idaho
Minam Store
Idaho
Rod Benders Extreme & River Tours
King Hill, Idaho
Snake River Adventures
Lewiston, Idaho
The Lodge at Palisades Creek
Idaho
Three Rivers Ranch
Idaho
Tributary Whitewater
Idaho
Westbank Anglers
Wilson, Idaho
WorldCast Anglers
Victor, Idaho
Dunoir Fishing Adventures
Lander, Wyoming
Jackson Hole Anglers
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the South Fork Snake River?+
The South Fork Snake 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.
How many fishing guides operate on the South Fork Snake River?+
Outguided lists 30 fishing guides who operate on the South Fork Snake 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 South Fork Snake River?+
The South Fork Snake 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 3000–8000 CFS.
What fish species are in the South Fork Snake River?+
The South Fork Snake 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
South Fork Snake at Heise
Station #13032500