Field Report CDA River

Coeur d'Alene Quality

Took a drive up the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River Wednesday to see what was going on. Hitting the river on foot I decided to poke around in a few slots down lower and work my way upriver. Yes, I do wade fish. People think I only float rivers, not the case, we do it all. I just happen to like floating rivers a lot so I do it more often lol.

Alright, enough rant, back to business. Fishing on the lower was pretty good, breaking the ice with some average cutthroat on chubbies and golden stone patterns. There were yellow sallies hatching in the morning and as the air temps warmed a fair amount of golden stones hatched as well. The golden definitely got the most attention.

After hitting a few spots I jetted up river above Prichard. Saw a few boats out in various stretches. The water volume this year is a little better than the last few years although it is already below the thirty year average for June. For wade fishing on most of the river it's pretty ideal right now. Not super skinny, but easily crossable in many areas above Prichard.

Fishing pressure was pretty typical as I worked my way upriver. Anglers here and there, but not plenty of open water for a Wednesday. Although I'm always surprised at how many people I do see fishing weekdays anymore. I guess Monday through Friday jobs are not the norm anymore, or people got their priorities right and fishing more!

By afternoon the green drakes and some flavs (small green drake) were starting to pop and fish were keyed in on them. Whenever the drakes are out fish seem to drop all other daily responsibilities and solely focus on this supermodel status bug. Hey, I'm not complaining, I will give them what they want! The drakes also bring some of the more quality Coeur d'Alene cutts up the surface with reckless abandon.

Overall great conditions and great fishing this week on the NF Coeur d'Alene River. Time to clear your schedule and hit the water.