The Big Wood River

 The Big Wood River is without a doubt the most consistent fish producing river in our area. I have never seen a freestone river with such enormous insect population and fish growth rates as I have on this river. I believe that for it's size there are few rivers in the world that have as many fish per mile as the Big Wood. The Big Wood is also the perfect size for the walking angler, to small to float and yet small enough to wade most everywhere. You can use various methods of fly fishing techniques to catch trout in the Big Wood. Nymphing, dry fly and streamers all work well here. The Big Wood is also very kind to the fly-fisher who is new to the sport. If you have never cast a fly line before and want to learn as much as you can and still catch a few fish then the Big Wood is your answer. This river flows right through the Wood River Valley and is accessible in many public access areas. It is fishable almost year round with the winter months being some of the most productive. The Big Wood is open every month of the year except April and May. The river has many hatches throughout the summer months but can fish especially well in June and July. Rising from many small creeks and springs in the mountains surrounding the Sun Valley area, the Big Wood winds it's way through the valley until it reaches Magic Reservoir about 8 miles south of Bellevue Idaho. Below Magic the Big Wood becomes a tailwater fishery that is subject to the whims of irrigation in the south central part of Idaho. This fishery can be great during normal water years or non existent in drought years. Access is difficult on this water so get good information before you go.