Fishing Report
Believe it or not, there’s still some water in Island Park Reservoir. It has rebounded to 19% of capacity, with outflows holding below 100 cfs. This will be a critical winter for the Henry’s Fork, and I’m keeping my fingers crossed for a big snow year.
The weather changed overnight, and the coming week looks downright fishy: cooler temperatures, moisture, and fall conditions that make you want to spend a day on the river.
As water temperatures drop, fishing has noticeably improved. Extremely low flows, however, are making navigation difficult—especially in Box Canyon. I strongly advise against taking a hard-sided boat through the canyon right now and urge anyone considering a float to think carefully about current conditions. Even our guides fishing from rafts have had to get out and walk certain stretches.
Fishing in Box Canyon has been solid, with streamers producing the most consistent results. That may have something to do with the Utah chubs being flushed out of Island Park Reservoir. Zonkers and Dalai Lamas have been the patterns of choice.
The Railroad Ranch is seeing its share of rising fish, too. Mahogany duns, blue-winged olives, and midges have been the primary hatches, and plenty of hoppers are still around. Don’t overlook ants and beetles: terrestrials continue to get attention, even in these cooler fall conditions.
Downstream from Ashton Dam, the river is on the cusp of some outstanding dry-fly fishing. This time of year, I like to leave the drift boat at home and spend my days walking the banks, hunting for trout. Midges and blue-winged olives are on the menu, along with a few remaining hoppers.
Brown trout are also getting a little grumpy as spawning season approaches. Their aggressive streak makes a streamer a great choice right now.
Fly Shop
Our fall shop hours are 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Fall is here, and we’ve got some great deals in the shop. Come on up, take a look around, and spend some time on the water.
It’s also one of the best times of year to book a guided trip. With many summer visitors already home, you might find yourself enjoying a stretch of river all to yourself.
Looking ahead, 2027 guided trips are booking fast. Consider booking now to secure your preferred dates and favorite guides.
Thank you for your continued support and for making this another memorable season. We’re grateful to be part of your time on the Henry’s Fork and look forward to seeing you again soon.
Last Chance Bar & Grill
It’s been another successful season, and we’re grateful to everyone who made it memorable. With fall in full swing and winter hopefully on its way, our restaurant schedule is changing:
- Sunday, October 11: Our last day of regular full service.
- October 12–16: Open daily from 3:00 to 9:00 p.m., with our final dinner service on October 16.
- Saturday, October 17, at 2:00 p.m.: We’ll gather in the restaurant to celebrate the life of Coralee “Korre” Thompson. The event is open to the public, though we will not offer formal dinner service. We hope you’ll join us in honoring Korre’s life, legacy, and place in our Island Park community.
- Starting October 18, the Bar & Grill will be closed for the season.
Last Chance Bar & Grill will reopen on December 26. We look forward to seeing you this winter!
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