Big Lost River

GAGE LOCATION

DAY/YEAR
GRAPHS

CURRENT
STAGE/FLOW

WHAT TIME

Big Lost at Chilly

7 30 year

1.04 / 91

1 am

Big Lost at Howell Ranch

7 30 year

1.46 / 54

1 am

BIg Lost near Arco

7 30 year

1.94 /

1 am

CITY

Mackay

NOAA

Accuweather

TWC

Ketchum

NOAA

Accuweather

TWC

HATCH

NYMPH/
LARVA

PUPA/
EMERGER

DUN/
ADULT

EGG-
LAYER

Blue-winged olive

Golden stonefly

Salmonfly

Cranefly

Midge

Sculpin

Baitfish

The Big Lost below Mackay Dam can be a viable winter destination, depending on flows. If the flows are low (say, under 150 cfs), the water stays clear and the river is wadable. Due to the clear water, you can often sight-fish on sunny days. Just remember that the fish can see you, too, so be stealthy.

Size 20-24 midges and blue-winged olives are the dominant bugs. Size 16 red Brassies are another good pattern to carry. If the river is low, non-beadhead nymphs are often best because they don't make as much fuss when they hit the water.

Early in November trout can be seen feeding just below the surface. A small non-beadhead Pheasant Tail can work well at that time. When it gets cold the trout will stay near the bottom and your fly will need to travel at that level to be effective.

The upper Big Lost has some deep pools, and trout will mostly be found in those pools. However, much of the upper river is not accessible in the winter due to snow.

This is a cold part of Idaho, so pick your days carefully.

For more on November tactics and flies, see the Rivers in General report.