Episode Show Notes
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to truly dial in Idaho fly fishing, today’s episode is for you. We’re joined by David Raisch, longtime guide at the Lodge at Palisades Creek and co-founder of Hawgfish, who has spent the last 25 years exploring some of the most diverse and overlooked fisheries in the West.
From the famous Henry’s Fork to the sprawling South Fork of the Snake, all the way to the ledges of American Falls, David has seen it all. And today he’s sharing the lessons learned. You’ll hear why Idaho might be one of the most underrated fly fishing destinations, how to rethink your setup for big winter trout, and why those smallmouth bass flats deserve way more of your attention this summer.
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Show Notes with David Raisch on Idaho Fly Fishing
Winter Trout Fishing Below American Falls
David has spent years dialing in the waters below American Falls Reservoir and it’s not your average trout spot. This section of the Snake River offers some of Idaho’s best winter fishing for big trout.
The secret? It’s all about timing. When irrigation season ends in October, the river drops, making the water perfect for walk-and-wade fishing. The fish get packed into smaller areas, especially along the lava rock ledges that line the riverbed.
How to Nymph Fish the Snake River in Fall
When the water drops after irrigation season, it’s prime time for nymph fishing around American Falls. David keeps it simple with a Thingamabobber for his indicator and uses tungsten nymphs like size 14 or 16 Frenchies. Big fish? No problem. David isn’t afraid to fish heavy tippet like 1X or 2X. The fish aren’t that picky.
Pro Tip: Let your drift run long even below you. Most hits come right in front of you or just downstream. And in colder months, get your flies close to the bottom, about 6 to 8 inches off. Warmer days? The fish might come up for your fly, so you don’t always need to hit the bottom.
South Fork Hatches and Fly Choices
If you’re fishing the South Fork in summer, you’re in luck. It’s packed with hatches from now through fall. You’ll see stoneflies, yellow sallies, PMDs, and plenty of caddis. And when July rolls around, hopper season kicks off — one of the most fun ways to fish this river.
David says you can’t go wrong with a Chubby Chernobyl. Foam, rubber legs, and that big white wing make it easy to see and trout love it. Some anglers also like the Morrish Hopper for a different look.
David’s other go-to? Simple, tough dry flies with good floatability. He ties them using materials from Hawgfish.
Best Time to Fish the Snake River
If you’re trying to plan the perfect trip on the Snake River, timing is everything. David breaks it down simple:
- For Smallmouth Bass: June, July, August, and September. Hot weather, easy fishing, and lots of action. David says catching 100 smallmouth a day isn’t unusual. If you want fun, flip-flops, and non-stop bites. Summer bass fishing is the ticket.
- For Big Trout: Late October, November, February, and March. That’s when the big fish are stacked up below American Falls. You’ll mostly be nymphing or throwing streamers in colder water.
Where to Eat, Stay, and Explore Around Pocatello
If you’re heading to Pocatello for a fishing trip, you’ve got a few great spots to grab a bite. First stop? 5th Street Bagelry, owned by David Raisch himself. It’s a local favorite for breakfast and lunch, serving up best-selling bagel sandwiches like the Adobo and the California. Perfect for a quick breakfast or grabbing guide lunches before you hit the water.
For dinner, David recommends the Sandpiper for steaks and seafood or Jakers, a solid Idaho favorite.
Things to do besides fishing? Mountain biking and rock climbing, hot springs at Lava Hot Springs, bird hunting and big game hunting, and whitewater rafting or kayaking.
You can find David on Instagram @buckeyeflytying and @thelodgeatpalisadescreek.
Facebook @PalisadesCreekFlyFishing
Visit their website at tlapc.com or hawgfish.com.
