Snake River
OptimalWyoming
Current Conditions
The Snake River is running at 2,540 CFS — ideal conditions. Expect clear water and excellent dry fly opportunities.
Last updated: May 20, 2026, 8:45 AM from USGS gauge 13011000 (Snake River near Moran)
7-Day Flow Trend
Flow thresholds: Optimal 1500–3500 CFS | Fishable to 8000 CFS | Marginal to 14000 CFS
Water Temperature
Water temperature is cool — ideal for trout activity. Fish will be feeding actively throughout the day.
About the Snake River
The Snake River through Jackson Hole is one of the most scenic fishing destinations in America, with the Teton Range as a backdrop. Famous for its native Snake River fine-spotted cutthroat trout and excellent dry fly fishing.
Hatch Chart
| Insect | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Salmon Fly Chubby Chernobyl #6 | ||||||||||||
Golden Stonefly Stimulator #8 | ||||||||||||
Green Drake Green Drake Dun #10 | ||||||||||||
Caddis Elk Hair Caddis #14-16 | ||||||||||||
Blue-Winged Olive BWO Parachute #18 | ||||||||||||
Hopper Dave's Hopper #8 |
Active Hatches — May
Patterns: Elk Hair Caddis #14-16
Patterns: BWO Parachute #18
River Sections
Jackson Lake Dam to Deadman's Bar
float access2,540 CFS
Upper Snake through Grand Teton National Park. Braided channels with cutthroat in a world-class setting.
Wilson to South Park
float access5,160 CFS
Lower Snake near Jackson. Excellent float fishing with good public access.
Guides on the Snake River(35)
These fishing guides list the Snake River as one of their home waters.
Bucking Rainbow Outfitters
Steamboat Spgs, Colorado
America's Rafting Company
Idaho
Hells Canyon Adventures
Clarkston, Idaho
Hells Canyon Sport Fishing
Idaho
Killgore Adventures
Idaho
Lazy Triple Creek Ranch
Idaho
Minam Store
Idaho
Rod Benders Extreme & River Tours
King Hill, Idaho
Snake River Adventures
Lewiston, Idaho
The Lodge at Palisades Creek
Idaho
Three Rivers Ranch
Idaho
Tributary Whitewater
Idaho
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to fish the Snake River?+
The Snake River fishes well from spring through fall. Peak dry fly season is typically June through September. The salmon fly hatch in late June/early July is one of the year's most exciting events. Fall brings excellent streamer fishing and fewer crowds.
What flies work on the Snake River in May?+
In May, the Snake River sees Caddis, Blue-Winged Olive activity. Top patterns include Elk Hair Caddis #14-16, BWO Parachute #18. Always carry a selection of nymphs as well.
How many fishing guides operate on the Snake River?+
Avonture lists 35 fishing guides who operate on the Snake River. These guides offer local knowledge of hatches, access points, and current conditions that can significantly improve your experience.
What is the current flow on the Snake River?+
The Snake River's flow data is updated every 30 minutes from USGS gauge stations (waterdata.usgs.gov). Check the top of this page for current CFS readings, fishability status, and a 7-day flow trend chart. Optimal fishing flows are 1500–3500 CFS.
What fish species are in the Snake River?+
The Snake River primarily holds wild brown trout and rainbow trout. Cutthroat trout may also be present in some sections. Fish sizes vary by section, with tailwater reaches typically holding larger fish.
Quick Conditions
Fishability Thresholds