Payette River - Middle Fork

About Payette River - Middle Fork

The Middle Fork of the Payette River runs through Boise and Valley Counties for about 48 miles. This is a well-supported fishery, with regular stocking of catchable-sized rainbow trout. You'll find redband trout and brook trout here too, adding to the variety. Access is straightforward, following a well-traveled road that also offers good camping areas. This setup makes it easy to find a spot to fish and set up camp for a few days. The river itself is a good size, with plenty of riffles, pools, and runs that hold fish. You can work the edges, target deeper pockets, and explore the areas where smaller tributaries enter the main stem. This river fishes well visually. Look for rising fish during hatches, or watch for trout dimpling the surface in the calmer sections. The stocked rainbows are a reliable draw, especially in the accessible areas. Brook trout will often be found in the cooler, faster water or in the shallower side channels. Redband trout, a native strain of rainbow, are tougher and will hold in similar water to the stocked fish, often in the faster currents. Mountain whitefish are also present and can be a fun bonus on the right fly. When it comes to hatches, expect to see caddis and stoneflies moving through the system, along with smaller mayflies like Baetis. The stocked rainbows will readily take attractor patterns, especially during the warmer months. Think Stimulators, small Elk Hair Caddis, or even a well-placed San Juan Worm. For the wilder trout, try nymphs like Pheasant Tails or Hare's Ears drifted through the runs. Small streamers can also be effective, particularly in the early morning or late evening when larger trout might move into shallower water. When the hatches are on, match the size and color of the insects. If you see risers, a dry fly imitating what they're eating is your best bet. Anglers share this water, so be mindful of others. If you're drifting flies, give boaters plenty of room. In shallower sections, wading anglers should be aware of those casting from the bank. The stocked rainbows are often found in the more accessible pools and runs, so if you're looking for solitude, explore further upstream or downstream. Keep an eye on the water temperature, as it can influence fish behavior throughout the day.