Ketchum and Sun Valley are well known as a winter destination, but they are also home to incredible fly fishing opportunities year-round. With local access to miles of riffle-run-pool trout fishing in the Big Wood River and the "crown jewel" of spring creeks in the Rockies, anglers feel at home here on the rivers. Explore all the area has to offer with plenty of surprises waiting just around the river bend. Unlike other fly fishing regions in the U.S., the river access in the Sun Valley area is unbeatable. Idaho state law designates the land within a navigable river's high-water marks as public trespass right-of-way,. which means once you enter at an appropriate access point, you can wade as far up or downstream as you desire. With an average of 300 days of sunshine per year, there is really no bad time to head out on your next adventure. Grab your best fishing buddy and come on up to explore all that the rivers in the Ketchum and Sun Valley area have to offer.
Where To Go:
- The Big Wood River
The Big Wood River is a great spot for novices and experts alike. Featuring bountiful rainbow trout and brown trout, this river is convenient to town and a great option any month of the year.
- Warm Springs Creek
This tributary meets up with the Big Wood River right here in the City of Ketchum! Head out for a quick, mid-day fishing fix, or wander a few miles upstream for a more remote experience. The rainbow trout and wild rainbows found here often exceed expectations.
- The Lost River System
Just 40 minutes over the Trail Creek Pass, the Lost River drainage is simply stunning, with beautiful emerald tributaries and breathtaking views of the Pioneer Mountains. It's not uncommon to find fish exceeding 20 inches here!
- Silver Creek
40 miles to the south of Ketchum lies Silver Creek, dubbed the "crown jewel" of the Rockies. This nature preserve welcomes the public to try their hand at catching massive brown trout and beautiful rainbows. This is also a great location to view other area wildlife, often frequented by elk, moose, deer, waterfowl, and raptors.
- The Salmon River
Our proximity to The Salmon River is a marvelous asset! You'll want to bring your drift boat to explore this boulder-strewn river, overflowing with massive bull trout. Steelheads can often be found here in the spring, as well as chinook salmon in summer months.
Anglers feel at home on the rivers of Ketchum and Sun Valley any time of the year. And from the Hotel Ketchum's ideal location on Main Street, access to the area's rivers, shopping, dining, and nightlife is a breeze! Check out our current lodging specials to get the best rates for your next adventure.
