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A few miles below Bellevue a diversion dam often diverts
water for the use of irrigation. This leaves the river
from below Bellevue to Magic Reservoir very dry during
years of heavy irrigation use. Although this does occur
and the river is not as popular here it can be an exceptional
stretch of river when the flows are appropriate. Browns
also become more abundant below Bellevue where as in
the stretch of river to the north they are more scarce.
Hatches on the Big Wood are very prolific. A good
supply of mayflies, stoneflies, and caddis exist providing
exceptional dry fly fishing from June till late Fall
and even through the winter with midges on many years.
Mayflies include Blue-winged Olives, Pale Morning Duns,
Western Green Drakes, Tricos, and Mahogany Duns along
with a few other less significant ones. Stoneflies
are made up of Golden Stones, Yellow Sallies, and a
less significant hatch of Salmon Flies. Caddis include
a variety of species and fish well during the summer
months. Terrestrials also fish well in the summer and
midges in the winter.
Nymphs and streamers also fish effectively throughout
the season. They can be exceptional during the end
of run-off when water levels are still a little high
and off-color. A sink tip line will sometimes keep
your streamers in the "zone."
The Big Wood River is an outstanding freestone fishery.
It flows through scenic terrain on its way to Magic
Reservoir and eventually the Snake River. Tough rainbows
and browns provide anglers with great seasonal fishing.
If your coming to the area be sure to bring along a
camera and a nine foot four to six weight rod. A nine
foot five weight is generally the most popular for
this river and the many others in the area. |
