As the crisp autumn air sets in, fishing conditions across the western United States are shifting, making this an exciting time for anglers to get out on the water. Fall is one of the best seasons to fish in this region, with cooler water temperatures and less pressure from summer crowds. Here’s a look at what’s happening in some of the most iconic western waters.
Montana – Madison River
The Madison River is seeing excellent conditions right now, particularly for those targeting brown trout. With spawning season approaching, browns are becoming more aggressive, making streamer fishing highly productive. Look for them in deeper pools and along the banks in the upper stretches near Ennis. Nymphing with smaller flies like zebra midges and pheasant tails is also working well. As the weather cools, be prepared for some chilly mornings, but midday warmth will make for comfortable fishing conditions.
Best Flies: Woolly buggers, zonkers, zebra midges, pheasant tails
Water Temperature: 48°F-52°F
Flow: 1,200 cfs
Idaho – Snake River
The Snake River is entering its prime steelhead season, and reports from the Clearwater and Salmon River tributaries indicate that fish are moving in strong numbers. Swinging flies for steelhead is popular here, and using brightly colored patterns in lower light conditions can trigger bites. Expect to see a mix of both wild and hatchery fish. Anglers should be prepared for rain and fluctuating flows, which may stir up some of the larger fish.
Best Flies: Intruder-style flies, egg patterns, green butt skunks
Water Temperature: 50°F-54°F
Flow: 6,500 cfs
Oregon – Deschutes River
Fall fishing on the Deschutes River is always an exciting time, and right now, the focus is on steelhead and resident trout. Steelhead numbers have been decent, with good catches reported between Maupin and Warm Springs. For trout anglers, Blue Wing Olive (BWO) hatches are coming off in the afternoons, so dry fly enthusiasts should take advantage. Nymphing remains solid throughout the day with stonefly patterns and small emergers.
Best Flies: BWO dries, stonefly nymphs, soft hackles, intruders
Water Temperature: 54°F
Flow: 4,100 cfs
California – Eastern Sierra
The Eastern Sierra’s lakes and rivers are seeing some of the best fishing of the year. Crowley Lake continues to produce well, particularly for anglers targeting large rainbows and browns. Streamers are doing the trick, but midges and chironomids under an indicator are also effective. In the Upper Owens, brown trout are starting to make their way upstream for the spawn, and targeting them with egg patterns and streamers in the deeper pools is a good strategy.
Best Flies: Egg patterns, streamers, midges, woolly buggers
Water Temperature: 47°F-52°F
Flow: 175 cfs (Upper Owens)
Washington – Yakima River
Fall fly fishing on the Yakima River has been great for both cutthroat and rainbow trout. The cooler temperatures have improved the daytime bite, and BWO and October caddis hatches are in full swing. Focus on nymphs in the morning and switch to dries during the afternoon hatch. The Yakima’s upper stretches near Cle Elum are providing good action, especially in the faster runs and riffles.
Best Flies: October caddis, BWO dries, hare’s ears, soft hackles
Water Temperature: 52°F
Flow: 1,200 cfs
Utah – Green River
The Green River is experiencing excellent fall fishing, particularly on the A and B sections below Flaming Gorge Dam. Cooler temperatures have turned on the trout, and anglers are seeing success with both nymphs and streamers. Dry fly fishing remains possible, especially on overcast days when BWOs and midges come off. The fall colors along the Green make this a stunning time to fish, with fewer crowds than the summer months.
Best Flies: BWOs, zebra midges, scuds, leech patterns
Water Temperature: 49°F-52°F
Flow: 850 cfs
Overall Tips:
Streamers and Nymphs: As the water cools, trout become more aggressive, especially with streamers mimicking baitfish or leeches. Nymphing with smaller patterns, especially during non-hatch times, can be productive across the board.
Weather Watch: Fall weather can be unpredictable, so come prepared for anything from bright sunny days to sudden rain or even early snow in higher elevations.
Time of Day: With shorter days, fishing during the warmer parts of the afternoon often yields the best results, especially for dry fly enthusiasts.
As the western U.S. moves deeper into fall, now is the time to experience the fantastic fishing opportunities available in this beautiful part of the country. Whether you’re after trout, steelhead, or the perfect fall experience, these waters have something for every angler.
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