Fly Fishing Stream Conditions Report: Henry's Fork

This year: The is fishing very well this month, though the river is currently running very low. Flows have ranged from a minimum of 262 CFS to a maximum of 738 CFS, with an average of 439 CFS. Due to the low water, fish may not be holding in their usual spots along the banks. Nymphing continues to be a highly effective technique across all reaches of the river. Don't hesitate to use a larger setup, such as a big size 6 Chubby with a Pat's Rubberlegs as a dropper, or a size 16 olive Spanish Bullet Quill. On warmer, overcast days, you can find good dry fly midge activity, and if clouds are present, we've been seeing decent hatches of March Brown Drakes. The Mother's Day caddis hatch is winding down on the lower river but is still active upstream around Riverside Campground in Island Park. The most consistent fishing is typically found between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. For successful nymphing, consider patterns like the Pat's Rubberlegs, Olive Spanish Bullet Quill, and Zebra Midge. For dry fly opportunities, Skittering Zelon Midges and Chubby patterns are proving effective.

Best time of day: Afternoon

Prior years: The is fishing well this month, with conditions ranging from good to excellent. Water conditions are generally good and clear throughout much of the system. Flows at Island Park Dam are around 479 cfs, and through Box Canyon, they are about 655 cfs. Some sections experience low flow, while others see high and stained water. Be aware that below Chester Dam, cold, discolored inflow from the Fall River can compromise fishing, though the Warm River is showing noticeable clearing. Salmonfly activity is widespread. While the peak may have passed in the lower river, spotty hatches are still present and moving upstream, with the peak yet to come in some areas. Golden Stones are beginning to emerge, and a slow increase in their activity is expected. Caddis are very active, especially in the evenings, and PMDs are coming into play. March Browns are still around, and you might encounter Baetis and Midges, particularly on colder, wetter days. Stonefly nymphs are abundant under rocks, and carpenter ants are present in the canyons and high country. Anglers are finding success with a variety of techniques. Dry/dropper rigs are effective for nymphing, but be prepared to use indicators and deeper presentations during slower periods. Nymph selection should mirror what works in Box Canyon. For dry flies, patterns imitating Salmonflies, Golden Stones, Caddis, March Browns, and PMDs are all productive. In pocket water, focus on seams around rocks and the middle of the river, where Salmonfly dries can bring fish to the surface. Streamers continue to produce, especially on the lower reaches from Warm River to Chester, using both larger and moderately sized baitfish patterns on floating or sinking lines. Dry fly opportunities are good, particularly from 1 PM to 6 PM, targeting riffles, seams, banks with slow to moderate currents, and overhanging vegetation. Nymph rigs are productive all day, using short leaders and tippets. For proficient casters, wade fishing can be more effective than fishing from a boat.