Idaho Steelhead Fishing

Idaho Steelhead Fishing at Indian Creek Guest Ranch

"I swam 700 miles for this picture"

Indian Creek Guest Ranch Fall Steelhead Fishing

In October Indian Creek Guest Ranch offers an ideal steelhead fishing package, combining a spectacular section of the Salmon River, seasoned guides, great food and comfortable cabins.

Steelhead migrate from the Pacific Ocean, over 700 miles, reaching the upper Salmon River in mid-September and weighing from 4 lbs to 20 lbs. These sea-run trout provide explosive angling experiences.

We fish 2 clients per guide per boat on various sections of a 44 mile stretch of the Salmon River. Our specialty is fly fishing, using either single handed or spey rods (two handed fly rod). Individual instruction on casting for steelhead with single hand fly rods is available at no added charge.

Spey rod instruction with a FFF certified instructor can also be arranged as part of your steelhead fishing vacation. Call Jerry at the ranch for specific information regarding fishing gear, current steelhead runs and timing your trip the Salmon River. In the last few years Salmon River anglers have experienced some of the best steelhead fishing in over 30 years.

Indian Creek provides the following:

  • Terminal tackle
  • Fly fishing rods and flies
  • Heated drift boats
  • Breakfast and dinner at the ranch, with lunch on the river
  • Comfortable cabins with private bathrooms

Fishermen should bring:

  • Fly rods should be at least 7 wt. equipped with a floating line, and /or sink tip lines. Dry fly patterns may be fished until river temperatures drop below 45 degrees. We can provide fly rods for those without their own.
  • Leaders can be 9’ to 11’ with a dry line or as short as 3’ with a sinking tip line. We recommend 1X tippet.
  • An assortment of steelhead flies, we can recommend patterns.
  • Spin casting or level wind gear should be a medium to medium heavy rod and reel loaded with 10-12 pound test monofilament. The ranch can provide spinning rods for those without their own.
  • Breathable chest waders (not mandatory but allows wading which is especially important for fly fishermen). We recommend hip boots for use with casting gear.
  • Warm clothing including rainproof gear, fishing gloves, and a winter hat
  • Polarized glasses
  • Forceps
  • Camera
  • For on line license applications and updated steelhead counts visit Idaho Department of Fish and Game at www.fishandgame.idaho.gov.