Salmon River Fishing Report

Information
While it may seem nonsensical to think of Marilyn Monroe and fly fishing in the same breath, the Salmon River and the “blonde bombshell” are permanently linked together in American folklore. Given it’s wild runs and deep canyons, the river acquired the moniker of the “River of No Return, and was made famous when Monroe and Mitchum starred in a 1954 film with the same name.  In fact, the Salmon runs unobstructed for 425 miles, making it the longest free-flowing river within one state in the lower 48.
 
Not only are its rapids wild and untamed, the Salmon also travels through two nationally designated preserves, the Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness and the Gospel Hump Wilderness areas. Recognized for its scenic importance, Congress declared the 46 miles of the river from North Fork to Corn Creek as a national recreational river and the 79 miles from Corn Creek to Long Tom Bar as a wild river. At points along the Salmon its granite walls are one-fifth deeper than the Grand Canyon and over 180 miles of the river is more than one mile deep.
 

Fed by several tributaries such as the Yankee Fork, South Fork Salmon and Little Salmon, the river supports both cold and warm water fish including smallmouth bass, bull trout, sockeye salmon, Chinook salmon, squawfish, sucker and catfish. Legend has it that white sturgeon over 12 feet long and over 100 years old also inhabit these waters. The Salmon and Snake rivers provide critical habitat for steelhead trout and Chinook salmon. These fish require both salt and fresh water and use these streams to navigate from the rivers where they spawn, to the ocean where they spend their adult lives. The river offers high quality sport fishing for resident populations of cutthroat and rainbow trout as well as steelhead and mountain whitefish.
 
Featured Fishing Trips
Guided Fishing Trips
$
3,450
-
$
3,650
/ Angler
Capacity:
1 angler
Days:
On Sat, Aug 12 2017 - Sat, Aug 4 2018
Duration:
6 days
Fishing Waters:
Destination:
Trip Details The Middle Fork of the Salmon truly has it all! Wonderful fishing, exciting whitewater Hot Springs on the Middle Fork Salmonrafting, natural hot springs, vast geologic ... moreand anthropologic history, a plethora of hiking trails, amazing scenery, wildlife and more! We don’t want you to have to choose between any of these fun activities; we want you to experience all of them! The combination fishing and rafting trip on the Middle Fork is the perfect way get the best of everything.

Fun Ride in a Drift BoatWith this option, guests will spend half of each day fly-fishing and floating in one of our comfortable and maneuverable drift boats and then spend the other half relaxing on the couch like seat of a big oar raft or taking on the waves in an inflatable kayak or paddle raft. The Middle Fork of the Salmon offers world-class fly fishing opportunities with approximately 2,400 native Rainbow and Westslope Cutthroat Trout per mile. This was the first ever catch-and-release stream in the country and has been protected as the crown jewel of the West for trout fishing. Our drift boats are built to provide the perfect fly-fishing platform to access the fish and to fish directly from the boat. When riding in the rafts there is more time to stop and explore the historical sites, hot springs, or go for a hike along the way.

The canyon scenery of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River is truly breathtaking.Rafting on the Middle Fork Salmon River On this 100-mile stretch of the Frank Church Wilderness, we float through the heart of the largest wilderness area in the continental United States and drop 3,000 feet in elevation. Each day on this exciting river adventure is unique in activities and scenery, the abundance of which makes the combination trip the most popular option for guests who want to experience it all.

Each individual person in your group can choose to further customize their trip between the fishing, rafting or the combination options. Please contact us for more details regarding such customizations.

River Accommodations

Camping with Helfrich Outfitters on the Middle Fork is better labeled as ‘Glamping’, or glamorous camping, because of the deluxe accommodations that are provided at every campsite. Upon arriving in camp each afternoon, guests can expect everything to be set up and ready for them to enjoy. Each of our spacious tents accommodates 2 guests with comfortable cots and air pads for sleeping. The site is equipped with dining tables, lounge chairs, a hot shower, warm water wash station, hand washing facilities, a privacy toilet, ice and cocktail table, and a complete kitchen.

When guests arrive in camp they can pick a tent, grab a cold drink, munch on appetizers, relax and enjoy activities around camp. Each trip is focused on the customer’s interests and guides are available to lead activities by request.

The afternoons and evenings provide plenty of time for additional fishing, swimming, hiking, artifact hunting, photography, playing games, soaking in hot springs, reading a good book with toes in the water or just relaxing and watching the river float by.

The gourmet food on the Middle Fork makes this trip even more inviting. All meals are prepared in Dutch ovens and on the barbeque over open coals. Fresh baked Dutch oven breads, made from scratch, are prepared each day along with top quality meats and fish. Each meal is accompanied by plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Duel entree dinners and a wide variety of side dishes provide great options at each meal. If there is any room left in ones stomach after the evening’s premier event, a delightful dessert is sure to follow.

Riverside lunches of freshly made salads, fresh fruits and rich sandwich spreads are prepared each day on a shaded river bank. Lunch stops are a great time to relax in a lounge chair in the shade, go for a swim, lay out for a sun tan, read a good book or explore the surrounding area.
$
3,200
/ Angler
Capacity:
1 angler
Days:
On Fri, Sep 29 2017 - Fri, Oct 5 2018
Duration:
5 days
Fishing Waters:
Destination:
Trip Details The Salmon River in Idaho is the largest free-flowing river in the lower 48 states. Our trip takes us through one of the deepest river gorges in North America and traverses ... more73 miles of river through three states; starting in Idaho, passing along the Oregon border and ending in the state of Washington. We float 55 miles through the rugged Salmon River Gorge to join the Snake River in Hells Canyon. Our drift boat guides competently navigate “The Slide,” “Eye of the Needle” and “Bodacious Bounce” - whitewater rapids that characterize the wilder side of the Salmon Canyon. From the confluence of these two majestic rivers, the Salmon and the Snake, we float the last 18 miles of our journey to take-out. Our fall trips offer both fishing and bird hunting on the Main Salmon and Cast and Blast Main Salmon Idahocan definitely be described as action-packed. Our trips are customized for our guests and can be more focused on fishing, hunting or both. We break camp and hit the river early each day to take advantage of consistently spectacular fishing for smallmouth bass, trout, and steelhead. With two fishermen in each drift boat, our guides travel through whitewater and find the quality fishing spots. Each of our professional guides are expert fishermen who provide equipment and helpful instruction with a personal touch to make each boat ride fun and unique. The camaraderie between our guests and the guides that develops over the five day trips enhances the trip immeasurably. Upland game bird hunting on these trips brings an additional dimension to this fishing trip. The Main Salmon Canyon is known for healthy populations of Chuckar and Hungarian Partridge. These fast-flying birds provide the ultimate challenge to upland bird hunters. Since the terrain can be rugged, drift boats provide ready access. Spend your day fishing until you spot or hear the birds, pull over for a hunt and go back to fishing. There is never a boring moment.

Watching and listening for Chuckars and Partridge as we float allows us to maximize the potential for a successful hunt. Hunting dogs assist in flushing and retrieving the birds as well and most of our guides have well trained hunting dogs who accompany us on the trips. Often termed “cast and blast,” our combination fall fishing and bird hunting excursions provides not just variety, but an excellent opportunity to engage in two of your favorite pastimes during the same trip.

Aren't much of a hunter? No problem! All of our trips are customized for our guests and these trips can be all fishing focused. The amazing scenery of this canyon provides an experience in itself. Add in the fun fishing, top quality camps and gourmet food and you are guaranteed a wonderful river experience!

River Accomidations

Each day, our camp gear and luggage are taken ahead where camps are completely set up before our guests arrive late in the day. Tents, cots, and sleeping pads are provided, as well as a portable toilet, hot shower and washing facility. Dining tables and chairs are set up for meals and our guides double as chefs. They are as skillful using a Dutch Oven and barbecue as they are in a drift boat. The meals are varied and delicious with a variety of meats, breads, and fresh fruits and vegetables each day.

Beyond the Banks

Hunting out of camp is a popular activity on these cast & blast trips. Hiking from camp in the mornings and evenings can prove worth it with a shot at a Turkey, Chuckar, Quail or other small game species.

Notes

Additional required 3% BLM use fee

Trips are available from the opening date of chuckar season through the middle of October. Price includes all necessary fishing equipment, meals, full camp set up, BLM use fees and professional guides. A minimum of 8 guests required per trip. Combined group trips are possible for smaller parties. 
$
3,350
/ Angler
Capacity:
1 angler
Days:
On Sat, Aug 12 2017 - Mon, Aug 20 2018
Duration:
6 days
Fishing Waters:
Destination:
Trip Details Fishing the Middle Fork of the Salmon River with Helfrich River Outfitters is truly the trip of a lifetime. The river that has it all, the Middle Fork of the Salmon possesses ... moreamazing beauty, wonderful fishing, natural hot springs, vast geologic and anthropologic history, and great hiking opportunities. Our six-day, five-night Middle Fork of excursion, guests will experience daily changes in scenery as the river winds its way through granite canyons, dropping three thousand feet in elevation. Each day offers its own unique beauty with the last two days spent in the third deepest canyon in North America, Impassible Canyon. The sheer, white granite walls of this chasm tower overhead as the contrasting sparkling emerald waters of the river tumble along the bottom of its immense walls.

The Middle Fork of the Salmon is renowned for its healthy fishery of native Rainbow and Westslope Cutthroat Trout. The first ever catch and release stream in the country, this highly protected river provides a sanctuary for an average of 2,400 fish per mile.The Middle Fork is 100 miles long, running through the largest protected wilderness in the contiguous 48 states. The crystal clear emerald waters of this amazing waterway add an extra twist to the fishing with the ability to see the fish, even deep in the river. The clarity of the water gives the illusion of fish suspended in the water at all levels of each pool. The Middle Fork is the pinnacle of dry-flyfishing rivers. 

Guests ride down the Middle Fork in comfort and style in the front of our custom drift boats. These boats are the ‘Cadillacs’ of the river with comfortable padded seats and seat backs, along with a padded casting brace to keep one balanced while fishing. No need to wade, these boats are very maneuverable and tailor-made to access the very best fishing spots; and our guides know exactly where those spots are. Each drift boat accommodates two guests and one guide. Boats are equipped with all of the necessary fishing rods and tackle, stocked drink cooler and all requisite safety equipment.

River Accommodations

Camping with Helfrich Outfitters on the Middle Fork is better labeled as ‘Glamping’, or glamorous camping, because of the deluxe accommodations that are provided at every campsite. Upon arriving in camp each afternoon, guests can expect everything to be set up and ready for them to enjoy. Each of our spacious tents accommodates 2 guests with comfortable cots and air pads for sleeping. The site is equipped with dining tables, lounge chairs, a hot shower, warm water wash station, hand washing facilities, a privacy toilet, ice and cocktail table, and a complete kitchen.

When guests arrive in camp they can pick a tent, grab a cold drink, munch on appetizers, relax and enjoy activities around camp. Each trip is focused on the customer’s interests and guides are available to lead activities by request. The afternoons and evenings provide plenty of time for additional fishing, swimming, hiking, artifact hunting, photography, playing games, soaking in hot springs, reading a good book with toes in the water or just relaxing and watching the river float by.

The gourmet food on the Middle Fork makes this trip even more inviting. All meals are prepared in Dutch ovens and on the barbeque over open coals. Fresh baked Dutch oven breads, made from scratch, are prepared each day along with top quality meats and fish. Each meal is sure to please and are all accompanied by plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Duel entree dinners and a wide variety of side dishes provide great options at each meal. If there is any room left in ones stomach after the evening’s premier event, a delightful dessert is sure to follow.

Riverside lunches of freshly made salads, fresh fruits and rich sandwich spreads are prepared each day on a shaded river bank. Lunch stops are a great time to relax in a lounge chair in the shade, go for a swim, lay out for a sun tan, read a good book or explore the surrounding area.

6 days and 5 night packages - Cover 100 miles of river and are available from June through early september.

5 days and 4 nights packages - Are available starting in late August. Just as early July is known as the best time to fish the Middle Fork, September is very comparable. The water is beginning to cool down and the fish get more active. Come enjoy the world class dry fly fishing of the Middle Fork while surrounded by beautiful fall colors. September is also loved my many as the best time of year on the river because of the lack of visitors to the river this time of year.

Notes

Fishing licenses are not included in the trip cost.

Additional $4/day Recreation Enhancement Act Fee will be charged on all Middle Fork trips.

Lower water levels later in the season may require trip launch location to change. These trips require an additional flight in to a backcountry airstrip. Additional flight costs are not included in trip price. All booking and arrangement details for these flights will be handled for you; it is easy and affordable. Fishing rafts may be used in place of drift boats during these low water conditions. 
$
3,390
/ Angler
Capacity:
1 angler
Days:
Daily
Duration:
6 days
September can be one of the most invigorating times to fish the Middle Fork of the Salmon River. As summer closes, the clear waters begin cooling down, the heat subsides, and the river ... moreis emptied of floating traffic. And as the temperature cools, the water gets lower and slower – ideal fishing conditions.

As the water cools, the wild cutthroat follow their native instincts to start packing on weight for the difficult winter looming ahead. September is their last chance to gorge themselves on large terrestrials and tasty surface hatches before the winter doldrums of midge subsistence sets in.

Our September fishing trips are smaller and more personable than our Summer trips. As the days start to get shorter and we have the whole Wilderness nearly to ourselves, these trips take on a nostolgic and sportsman/sportswoman's vibe.

This is a special time for both guides and guests on the Middle Fork; our guides are excited to row you through the best Cutthroat fly fishing waters in the West. You will find them to be both knowledgeable leaders and wonderful companions, whether they’re sharing an exotic presentation technique, helping to improve an angler’s casting skills, cooking up one of our favorite dishes, or telling lively stories around the campfire.
Additional Information
Tributaries:
Salmon River tributaries include Yankee Fork, South Fork Salmon, North Fork Salmon and Lemhi River
Source:
Sawtooth Mountains near Norton Peak
Mouth:
Snake River west of White Bird, Idaho and Nez Perce Counties
Length:
425 miles
Basin:
14,000 sq miles
Seasonal Conditions
Season
Hatches
SpringMarch Brown, Black Winged Olive, Midge
SummerGolden Stone, Yellow Sally, Caddis, Callibaetis, Midge
FallCaddis, Mahogany Dun, Black Winged Olive, Midge, Hoppers
Fishing Trips
  • Best of both worlds. Spend half of each day fly fishing in drift boats and the other whitewater rafting, hiking and exploring.
  • Best family getaway! Disconnect from technology, reconnect with family and friends.
  • Deluxe camps complete with full size tents, cots, hot showers and family style dining.
Trip Details The Middle Fork of the Salmon truly has it all! Wonderful fishing, exciting whitewater Hot Springs on the Middle Fork Salmonrafting, natural hot springs, vast geologic ... moreand anthropologic history, a plethora of hiking trails, amazing scenery, wildlife and more! We don’t want you to have to choose between any of these fun activities; we want you to experience all of them! The combination fishing and rafting trip on the Middle Fork is the perfect way get the best of everything.

Fun Ride in a Drift BoatWith this option, guests will spend half of each day fly-fishing and floating in one of our comfortable and maneuverable drift boats and then spend the other half relaxing on the couch like seat of a big oar raft or taking on the waves in an inflatable kayak or paddle raft. The Middle Fork of the Salmon offers world-class fly fishing opportunities with approximately 2,400 native Rainbow and Westslope Cutthroat Trout per mile. This was the first ever catch-and-release stream in the country and has been protected as the crown jewel of the West for trout fishing. Our drift boats are built to provide the perfect fly-fishing platform to access the fish and to fish directly from the boat. When riding in the rafts there is more time to stop and explore the historical sites, hot springs, or go for a hike along the way.

The canyon scenery of the Middle Fork of the Salmon River is truly breathtaking.Rafting on the Middle Fork Salmon River On this 100-mile stretch of the Frank Church Wilderness, we float through the heart of the largest wilderness area in the continental United States and drop 3,000 feet in elevation. Each day on this exciting river adventure is unique in activities and scenery, the abundance of which makes the combination trip the most popular option for guests who want to experience it all.

Each individual person in your group can choose to further customize their trip between the fishing, rafting or the combination options. Please contact us for more details regarding such customizations.

River Accommodations

Camping with Helfrich Outfitters on the Middle Fork is better labeled as ‘Glamping’, or glamorous camping, because of the deluxe accommodations that are provided at every campsite. Upon arriving in camp each afternoon, guests can expect everything to be set up and ready for them to enjoy. Each of our spacious tents accommodates 2 guests with comfortable cots and air pads for sleeping. The site is equipped with dining tables, lounge chairs, a hot shower, warm water wash station, hand washing facilities, a privacy toilet, ice and cocktail table, and a complete kitchen.

When guests arrive in camp they can pick a tent, grab a cold drink, munch on appetizers, relax and enjoy activities around camp. Each trip is focused on the customer’s interests and guides are available to lead activities by request.

The afternoons and evenings provide plenty of time for additional fishing, swimming, hiking, artifact hunting, photography, playing games, soaking in hot springs, reading a good book with toes in the water or just relaxing and watching the river float by.

The gourmet food on the Middle Fork makes this trip even more inviting. All meals are prepared in Dutch ovens and on the barbeque over open coals. Fresh baked Dutch oven breads, made from scratch, are prepared each day along with top quality meats and fish. Each meal is accompanied by plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Duel entree dinners and a wide variety of side dishes provide great options at each meal. If there is any room left in ones stomach after the evening’s premier event, a delightful dessert is sure to follow.

Riverside lunches of freshly made salads, fresh fruits and rich sandwich spreads are prepared each day on a shaded river bank. Lunch stops are a great time to relax in a lounge chair in the shade, go for a swim, lay out for a sun tan, read a good book or explore the surrounding area.
Fishing Waters:
Destination:
  • The ultimate sporting combination! Steelhead fishing and hunting for chucker partridge.
  • Ride down the river in style and class in our classic McKenzie River style drift boats.
  • Beautiful desert canyons provide breathtaking scenery and great upland game bird habitat.
  • All inclusive.
Trip Details The Salmon River in Idaho is the largest free-flowing river in the lower 48 states. Our trip takes us through one of the deepest river gorges in North America and traverses ... more73 miles of river through three states; starting in Idaho, passing along the Oregon border and ending in the state of Washington. We float 55 miles through the rugged Salmon River Gorge to join the Snake River in Hells Canyon. Our drift boat guides competently navigate “The Slide,” “Eye of the Needle” and “Bodacious Bounce” - whitewater rapids that characterize the wilder side of the Salmon Canyon. From the confluence of these two majestic rivers, the Salmon and the Snake, we float the last 18 miles of our journey to take-out. Our fall trips offer both fishing and bird hunting on the Main Salmon and Cast and Blast Main Salmon Idahocan definitely be described as action-packed. Our trips are customized for our guests and can be more focused on fishing, hunting or both. We break camp and hit the river early each day to take advantage of consistently spectacular fishing for smallmouth bass, trout, and steelhead. With two fishermen in each drift boat, our guides travel through whitewater and find the quality fishing spots. Each of our professional guides are expert fishermen who provide equipment and helpful instruction with a personal touch to make each boat ride fun and unique. The camaraderie between our guests and the guides that develops over the five day trips enhances the trip immeasurably. Upland game bird hunting on these trips brings an additional dimension to this fishing trip. The Main Salmon Canyon is known for healthy populations of Chuckar and Hungarian Partridge. These fast-flying birds provide the ultimate challenge to upland bird hunters. Since the terrain can be rugged, drift boats provide ready access. Spend your day fishing until you spot or hear the birds, pull over for a hunt and go back to fishing. There is never a boring moment.

Watching and listening for Chuckars and Partridge as we float allows us to maximize the potential for a successful hunt. Hunting dogs assist in flushing and retrieving the birds as well and most of our guides have well trained hunting dogs who accompany us on the trips. Often termed “cast and blast,” our combination fall fishing and bird hunting excursions provides not just variety, but an excellent opportunity to engage in two of your favorite pastimes during the same trip.

Aren't much of a hunter? No problem! All of our trips are customized for our guests and these trips can be all fishing focused. The amazing scenery of this canyon provides an experience in itself. Add in the fun fishing, top quality camps and gourmet food and you are guaranteed a wonderful river experience!

River Accomidations

Each day, our camp gear and luggage are taken ahead where camps are completely set up before our guests arrive late in the day. Tents, cots, and sleeping pads are provided, as well as a portable toilet, hot shower and washing facility. Dining tables and chairs are set up for meals and our guides double as chefs. They are as skillful using a Dutch Oven and barbecue as they are in a drift boat. The meals are varied and delicious with a variety of meats, breads, and fresh fruits and vegetables each day.

Beyond the Banks

Hunting out of camp is a popular activity on these cast & blast trips. Hiking from camp in the mornings and evenings can prove worth it with a shot at a Turkey, Chuckar, Quail or other small game species.

Notes

Additional required 3% BLM use fee

Trips are available from the opening date of chuckar season through the middle of October. Price includes all necessary fishing equipment, meals, full camp set up, BLM use fees and professional guides. A minimum of 8 guests required per trip. Combined group trips are possible for smaller parties. 
Fishing Waters:
Destination:
  • Prices are all-inclusive.
  • Each boat is fully equipped with lifejackets
  • Each fishing boat is equip with all necessary fishing rods, tackle and flies
  • Raft trips with groups of 6 or more have the option of a paddle raft.
Trip Details Fishing the Middle Fork of the Salmon River with Helfrich River Outfitters is truly the trip of a lifetime. The river that has it all, the Middle Fork of the Salmon possesses ... moreamazing beauty, wonderful fishing, natural hot springs, vast geologic and anthropologic history, and great hiking opportunities. Our six-day, five-night Middle Fork of excursion, guests will experience daily changes in scenery as the river winds its way through granite canyons, dropping three thousand feet in elevation. Each day offers its own unique beauty with the last two days spent in the third deepest canyon in North America, Impassible Canyon. The sheer, white granite walls of this chasm tower overhead as the contrasting sparkling emerald waters of the river tumble along the bottom of its immense walls.

The Middle Fork of the Salmon is renowned for its healthy fishery of native Rainbow and Westslope Cutthroat Trout. The first ever catch and release stream in the country, this highly protected river provides a sanctuary for an average of 2,400 fish per mile.The Middle Fork is 100 miles long, running through the largest protected wilderness in the contiguous 48 states. The crystal clear emerald waters of this amazing waterway add an extra twist to the fishing with the ability to see the fish, even deep in the river. The clarity of the water gives the illusion of fish suspended in the water at all levels of each pool. The Middle Fork is the pinnacle of dry-flyfishing rivers. 

Guests ride down the Middle Fork in comfort and style in the front of our custom drift boats. These boats are the ‘Cadillacs’ of the river with comfortable padded seats and seat backs, along with a padded casting brace to keep one balanced while fishing. No need to wade, these boats are very maneuverable and tailor-made to access the very best fishing spots; and our guides know exactly where those spots are. Each drift boat accommodates two guests and one guide. Boats are equipped with all of the necessary fishing rods and tackle, stocked drink cooler and all requisite safety equipment.

River Accommodations

Camping with Helfrich Outfitters on the Middle Fork is better labeled as ‘Glamping’, or glamorous camping, because of the deluxe accommodations that are provided at every campsite. Upon arriving in camp each afternoon, guests can expect everything to be set up and ready for them to enjoy. Each of our spacious tents accommodates 2 guests with comfortable cots and air pads for sleeping. The site is equipped with dining tables, lounge chairs, a hot shower, warm water wash station, hand washing facilities, a privacy toilet, ice and cocktail table, and a complete kitchen.

When guests arrive in camp they can pick a tent, grab a cold drink, munch on appetizers, relax and enjoy activities around camp. Each trip is focused on the customer’s interests and guides are available to lead activities by request. The afternoons and evenings provide plenty of time for additional fishing, swimming, hiking, artifact hunting, photography, playing games, soaking in hot springs, reading a good book with toes in the water or just relaxing and watching the river float by.

The gourmet food on the Middle Fork makes this trip even more inviting. All meals are prepared in Dutch ovens and on the barbeque over open coals. Fresh baked Dutch oven breads, made from scratch, are prepared each day along with top quality meats and fish. Each meal is sure to please and are all accompanied by plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Duel entree dinners and a wide variety of side dishes provide great options at each meal. If there is any room left in ones stomach after the evening’s premier event, a delightful dessert is sure to follow.

Riverside lunches of freshly made salads, fresh fruits and rich sandwich spreads are prepared each day on a shaded river bank. Lunch stops are a great time to relax in a lounge chair in the shade, go for a swim, lay out for a sun tan, read a good book or explore the surrounding area.

6 days and 5 night packages - Cover 100 miles of river and are available from June through early september.

5 days and 4 nights packages - Are available starting in late August. Just as early July is known as the best time to fish the Middle Fork, September is very comparable. The water is beginning to cool down and the fish get more active. Come enjoy the world class dry fly fishing of the Middle Fork while surrounded by beautiful fall colors. September is also loved my many as the best time of year on the river because of the lack of visitors to the river this time of year.

Notes

Fishing licenses are not included in the trip cost.

Additional $4/day Recreation Enhancement Act Fee will be charged on all Middle Fork trips.

Lower water levels later in the season may require trip launch location to change. These trips require an additional flight in to a backcountry airstrip. Additional flight costs are not included in trip price. All booking and arrangement details for these flights will be handled for you; it is easy and affordable. Fishing rafts may be used in place of drift boats during these low water conditions. 
Fishing Waters:
Destination:
Current Forecast
Water Flow
Fishing Access Sites
The boat ramp at this developed BLM campground was constructed in part with IDFG Steelhead and Salmon permit funds. This fee site provides most camping amenities. ... more

Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River Fishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Boating, Fishing, Camping
The boat ramp at this developed BLM campground was constructed in part with IDFG Steelhead and Salmon permit funds. Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River ... moreFishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Boating, Fishing
Sanitation & Water:
Toilet
This is an IFG public easement through private land that provides a natural boat ramp to the Salmon River and accesses BLM lands. Wildlife viewing opportunities are numerous here. ... morePlease respect adjacent private properties and stay within the posted boundaries.

Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River Fishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Boating, Fishing, Camping
Boat Services:
Ramp
This Idaho Department of Lands undeveloped access provides boating access to the Salmon River. Parking space is limited at this natural boat ramp and is available at turnouts immediately ... moresouth along US Highway 93.

Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River Fishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Fishing
Boat Services:
Ramp
This 4.5 acre access provides camping, fishing and boating access to the Salmon River. Picnic tables and grills are available at some of the sites. A turnaround area and spacious, ... moreshaded camp sites provide access for most RVs. Winter fishing for whitefish is good on this reach of the Salmon River.

Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River Fishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Boating, Fishing, Camping
Sanitation & Water:
Toilet
This developed BLM Recreation Site provides most camping amenities. Located 2 miles south of Ellis along US Highway 93, it provides the nearest developed upstream boat access to the ... moreSalmon River from the Deer Gulch Access.

Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River Fishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Fishing, Camping
Sanitation & Water:
Toilet
The Ellis North (Idaho Department of Lands) and Ellis South (Bureau of Land Management) accesses follow the Salmon River’s southeast bank near the mouth of the Pahsimeroi River. Both ... moreaccesses are popular fishing destinations for steelhead and salmon anglers. Boating access to the river is available two miles upstream at the Cottonwood BLM Campground.

Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River Fishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Fishing, Camping
IFG holds a 30-foot wide by 2.25 mile long access easement along the west bank of the Salmon River. To access the Easement, go into the Deer Gulch Access, turn left, then follow the ... moreroad bearing right up and over the foothills to the north entrance. Access from the south is by foot over the Sweeny Bridge. Dogs on leash only.

Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River Fishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Fishing
This 55-acre access provides fishing access to the Salmon River and hunting access to public lands. There are spacious camping sites, a covered pavilion, disabled angler’s ramp, and ... morethree separate restroom facilities. This is a very popular camping spot for RVs and tents alike.

Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River Fishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Boating, Fishing, Camping
This BLM, 1-acre unimproved site provides a natural boat ramp with additional parking across US Highway 93. It is popular with spring steelhead and summer salmon anglers. ... more

Find out about the latest fishing action with our Salmon River Fishing Report
Fishing Water Reports:
Activities:
Boating, Fishing
Boat Services:
Ramp
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Fishing Quality
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