Warm weather and lower than usual water levels have delayed the steelhead run by about two weeks. Historically, Clearwater B-Run (bigger) steelhead do not start to pass Bonneville dam until after August 15. So we are just now starting to see these fish begin their journey back to Idaho. It’s no secret that the A-Run (smaller) steelhead destined for the Snake River and Salmon rivers are at historical lows. The Idaho Fish and Game has reduced bag limits for the Snake and Salmon rivers. The good news is that early PIT (Passive Integrated Transponder) data indicates that the B-run should be similar to last year and provide some amazing fishing.

These early predictions estimate that we should see over 20,000 steelhead return to the Clearwater this fall. To date no season or retention changes have been made for the Clearwater River. For the fist time in 100 years we will also have a Coho (Silver salmon) season! The Coho and Fall Chinook (King salmon) runs are looking very strong. Steelhead, Chinook and Coho are all awesome fish and now they are all available to catch on the Clearwater River. We should seem some great fishing this season, so book your trip today!