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With
between 10,000 and 5,000 fish per
mile for roughly the first 50 miles, five species of trout (Snake
River and Yellowstone cutthroats, browns, rainbows and cutt-bows!),
an average length of 12-16", predictable hatches, and possibly
the best Hopper fishing to be found anywhere in the US, the "South
Fork" is one of the best destinations in the west!
With
such outstanding dry fly fishing available, nymphing is an "option"
as
opposed to a "requirement" (and when nymphs are used it
is most often as a dropper!). Additionally, for those willing to
throw large weighted streamers ("Chuck and Duck"!), there
is the chance of landing the fish of a lifetime (the "South
Fork" holds the Idaho record for Brown Trout!).
In
addition to the Blue-Ribbon fishing, the "South Fork"
offers some of the finest scenery in the west. Above Swan Valley,
the river braids its way through a broad flood plain with breathtaking
views of the Grand Tetons. Below Swan Valley, the "South Fork"
flows through one of the most beautiful canyons found anywhere in
the country.
Now
for the bad news (what little there is
); Although everyone
catches fish on the "South Fork", true trophies (fish
over 20") although there, are hard to locate. However, 20 fish
days are common and 50 fish days are not unheard of! Additionally,
due to the high number of Whitefish, nymphing can be frustrating.
Is it worth it? Many fishermen think so (including this one!)
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